ST. PETERSBURG - Laura Palmeri saved her best for last, but it was not enough to get the win Saturday night at Keswick Christian.
Palmeri's game-high 24 points earned her the MVP award for the ninth annual Pinellas County Coaches Association Senior All-Stars Game, as Palmeri and the Blue team fell 86-77 to the White squad.
"It is quite an honor," Palmeri said of the award. "I've always wanted to play since I was 10 years old. It was my dream to play for Seminole High School. This is great the way it ends."
Palmeri was not called upon to score much during the season, because she played alongside offensive-minded junior Alli Fogle and fellow senior Carrie Conley. That did not stop her from responding to a new role. The senior point guard scored 12 in each half and had a game-high four 3-pointers Saturday.
"I was really encouraged to shoot. It was more of a fun atmosphere."
Those on hand were treated to an intense game that featured eight ties and seven lead changes. Shamika Forbes (Dixie Hollins) led the White squad with 18 points. She also patrolled the lane and made four blocks.
"During practice I told Forbes she would have to play an outstanding game. She likes to go out and try and block shots, and she did a real good job of it doing it today," coach Leonard Williams of Largo said.
Amber Cross' 12-point second half helped the White team withstand the Blue squad's late second-half charge. She ended the game with 14 points.
