Faith Bible Christian Academy (FBCA) claimed its second girls’ basketball state championship in school history on Saturday, March 1, defeating Mississippi Valley Christian School (MVCS) 31-23 in the Illinois Association of Christian Schools (IACS) Girls Basketball State Final in Jacksonville.

Over the past four years, the Lady Falcons have consistently reached the state championship game, securing titles in 2023 and now 2025. “I am so proud of these girls!” said Coach Adam Jeffrey, who balances roles as head coach and father to senior guard Ayanna Jeffrey. “This team worked hard to return to the championship, and in the fourth quarter, they leaned on their experience to clinch the win.”

The Lady Falcons had three players recognized for their standout performances. Senior guard Ayanna Jeffrey and sophomore forward Sophia Vallelonga earned spots on the all-state tournament team, while sophomore guard Sydney Hardt was named the state tournament MVP. Hardt led all scorers in the championship game with 12 points.

In the semifinal on Friday night, FBCA faced a tough Marquette squad. The Falcons built leads several times, only for the Minutemen to close the gap and keep the game tight. The championship final unfolded differently, turning into a gritty defensive struggle where both teams battled to find the basket. The Falcons finally pulled ahead in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter, sealing their second title with clutch free throws and smart clock management.
“We’ll keep working and improving because we want next year’s team to have the same shot at a championship,” Coach Jeffrey said. “Stay tuned!”

Founded in 1979, FBCA is the only private Christian school in Christian County offering traditional teacher in each classroom Pre-K through 12th-grade education. The academy is located in Rosamond.

(submitted photos and story)