BEEVILLE — Most members of the Lady Trojan varsity basketball team have been together for all their high school careers and have been playing at the varsity level all four years.

All that teamwork and togetherness is working, and the A.C. Jones High ladies are gaining some respect and recognition around the area and state.

The Lady Trojans entered this week’s play ranked 24th in the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches top 25 state rankings released on Monday.

The Lady Trojans suffered through some long losing stretches as freshmen and sophomores, playing against senior-laden District 30-4A teams. Things began to change with a several wins coming their way last year, but still not enough for their liking.

“It was nice to hear and see the Beeville girls being state-ranked this week. The girls deserve it,” said head coach Katina Walker.

“They have worked extremely hard to be where they are now.”

The team began the season with eight seniors and one sophomore on the roster. To ensure the team has a couple of extra bodies and some depth, Walker elevated junior Sophia Galindo and freshman Audrey Carranco once District 30-4A play began.

The seniors who have endured the downs and now the ups of their basketball careers include Tori Muñoz, Krystal Cuellar, Brianna Jackson, Lynn Puente, Victoria Elizalde, Theresa Amador, Brennan Holder and Paige McKinney.

The team holds a 22-5 season record through Tuesday night’s 39-30 win over Calallen. The Beeville girls are 4-1 in District 30-4A play. Their lone loss was to a tough Victoria East squad.

Last night’s (Friday’s) contest on the road at Tuloso-Midway was to be another big test for the Lady Trojans.

“I told them to keep that hunger of wanting more. All ranked teams get beat, so we have to stay focused on our ultimate goal, which is getting to the playoffs first and then making a playoff run,” Walker said.

“We still have work to do, but we are proud and appreciative of the recognition.”