Jacksonville Fl- The season came to a close for the North Florida Educational Institute (NFEI) girls basketball team after a 65–36 loss to Grandview Prep in the Class 1A State Semifinal. Although the scoreboard favored Grandview Prep in the end, the Eagles finished the year with pride after another strong run under head coach Tony Bannister.
NFEI entered the semifinal with momentum and confidence. After all, the program had made history just last season with its first-ever state championship appearance. This year’s team once again proved it belonged among the state’s best, finishing the year with a solid record and a trip to the Final Four.
NFEI score first!! vs Grandview Prep! 2-0 1st qtr, Class 1A Girls FHSAA SEMIFINAL! pic.twitter.com/ivGrh23PBY
— Duval Sports (@DuvalSports) March 5, 2026
The game began with promise for the Eagles. Early in the first quarter, #23 Jennell Houston knocked down a two-point field goal to give NFEI a quick 2–0 lead. However, Grandview Prep responded almost immediately. #34 Jasleen Green scored inside to spark a big run for Grandview, putting them ahead 9–2.
As the first quarter continued, Grandview Prep’s offense found its rhythm. Meanwhile, NFEI struggled to keep pace as Victoria Valle, Jackie Hughes, and Ameera Kone’ each added baskets for Grandview. By the end of the first quarter, Grandview Prep had built a commanding 26–5 lead.
In the second quarter, the Eagles continued to battle. #12 Ameera Kone’ added another bucket for Grandview to extend the lead. NFEI answered with a strong inside finish from #3 Sawsan Kamara, cutting the score to 37–8. Shortly after, #22 Destiny Sanders scored in the paint to bring the score to 39–10.
Sanders continued to work hard offensively and scored several baskets before halftime. Despite the effort, Grandview Prep maintained control and carried a 49–17 lead into the break.
In the second half, NFEI kept competing, showing the same toughness that helped them reach the state semifinal. However, Grandview Prep’s size and scoring depth proved too much to overcome. The game ended with Grandview Prep securing the 65–36 victory. Proving to be a mountain too high to climb for NFEI.
Ameera Kone’ used her size and hustle to score on second chance points, and transition. She physically willed Grandview Prep into the State Finals. They will now move on to face Orlando Christian Prep in the Class 1A state championship game on March 7 at noon.
2027 Ameera' Kone' is doing it on both ends for Grandview Prep! 27-5 end of 1st qtr they lead NFEI@AmeeraKone12 pic.twitter.com/GubSGAAcC7
— Duval Sports (@DuvalSports) March 5, 2026
Even with the loss, NFEI had a memorable season. The Eagles were ranked #2 in Region 1 of Class 1A and built their identity around athletic guard play and an aggressive pressing defense.
During the playoff run, NFEI dominated early rounds with wins over Harvest Community (81–6) and St. Johns Country Day (59–24). The Eagles then delivered one of the most exciting games of their season, defeating L.E.A.D.S. Academy 62–59 in overtime to reach the Final Four.
Two players led the scoring attack throughout the season. Sawsan Kamara averaged 10.7 points per game, while Jennell Houston added 10.4 points per game.
Although the season ended one step short of the championship game, Coach Bannister and the Eagles once again proved they are one of the top programs in Class 1A basketball. The experience gained this year could fuel another deep playoff run in the future.
