March 7, 2026, Lancaster ISD/Lancaster, TX-- Whenever a team makes it to the state championship game, people often ask what inspired the team’s success. Of course, we know it comes from hard work, discipline, and passion. But for the Lady Tigers, there is one more powerful element behind this season’s success, and that’s the will to fight.
Not just the fight to win, but the fight to live.
Assistant Coach Lamesia McKinney has been battling stage 4 breast cancer since April, and her strength has become an inspiration for the entire team. Throughout the season, she has continued to support the players and coaching staff while facing her own battle with courage and determination.
Now, as the Lady Tigers prepare to compete for the program’s first state championship, Coach McKinney is sharing her story with the hope that her perseverance and passion will serve as an example for the team as they pursue the title.
Her journey is a reminder of what resilience truly looks like.
Let’s cheer on the Lady Tigers and Coach McKinney as they continue this incredible run. Check out her story from CBS 11 below.