03/29/2024
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Photos by Kenneth Armstrong

RED SPRINGS – East Bladen’s Lady Eagles presented Coach Patty Evers with the 500th girls basketball coaching victory of her career Friday night with a 54-20 Three Rivers Conference win over Red Springs Friday night.

“I am happy we got the win first!” said Coach Evers. “I am proud of my girls for keeping their composure during a physical game.”

Coach Evers posted a 73-42 record at Tar Heel before coming to East Bladen where Friday’s win raised her record to 427-80. In 23 seasons her teams have only missed the state play-offs one time.

“Tonight was very special to me!” continued Evers. “It is a true testament to all of the players who played at both Tar Heel and East Bladen. They make me who I am. I coach because I love the game and the people I am surrounded by.”

On hand to present the game ball to Coach Evers after the game was Evers friend and former coaching opponent Eva Patterson-Heath who won over 500 games in 24 seasons at Red Springs that earned her inductions into the Robeson County and North Carolina A&T Halls of Fame.

“To get No. 500 at Red Springs was special!” said Evers. “Having Coach Patterson-Heath present the game ball meant a lot. I have played more away games at Red Springs than any other gym.”

In her career Evers has coached two teams to 30-win seasons and 12 of her other teams have won 20 or more games. Four times her teams have played in the state championship game. Five more of her teams have reached the regionals.

Twelve of her teams have won league championships and she has been named league Coach of the Year 12 times.

“A big thanks to my family, friends, administration and especially to the Elizabethtown community for coming out tonight,” said Coach Evers.

The Lady Eagles improved to 18-1 overall with the win and lead the TRC with a perfect 13-0 mark. East Bladen will host Fairmont Friday night.

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