The Panthers (31-2) built a 35-25 lead at halftime. Southwest DeKalb opened the third period with a 10-0 run, sparked by Eboni Mitchell's two 3-pointers to give them a 20-point lead their biggest of the game.
But Fayette County (26-6) gradually trimmed the margin, scoring 13 straight points over a four minute span to cut the lead to 45-38. Tessah Hold scored eight points during the spurt.
Anma Onyeuku's layup in the fourth pulled the Tigers within 45-40 with 7:15 remaining. But Southwest DeKalb answered 11 seconds later with a jumper by Kajuanna Rivers.
Stephens, who led the Panthers with 21 points, followed with three consecutive scores to give them enough cushion for the title.
Onyeuku scored 17 points for Fayette County.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/3/207803