El Dorado Hills, Calif. – Even though the season ended six weeks ago, the Robbinsville Lady Knights continue to receive accolades that fully demonstrate their dominance this season.
The 1A state champions were named to MaxPreps' Small Town Top 25, which is open to schools across the United States that have under 1,000 students. Robbinsville was ranked 21st, ahead of Grandview (Texas); Jackson County Central (Jackson, Minn.); Vale (Ore.); and Saluda (S.C.).
The Lady Knights went 27-2 in 2026, winning the program's first state crown. Robbinsville also won its first Western Regional title and its 19th Smoky Mountain Conference championship.
Three of the players from this year's roster were also the recipients of more statewide recognition.
Ella Nelms – who served as Robbinsville's ace inside the circle – was named the 1A All-State Pitcher of the Year last week. A freshman, Nelms served up a perfect 22-0 season that included 228 strikeouts (against a mere 24 walks); just 35 hits and one home run coughed up; and a slim 0.29 ERA.
Daphne Barlow also received a 1A All-State honor: Player of the Year. The sophomore shortstop batted .447, which included 42 total hits, 14 doubles, three triples and a team-high five home runs.
Freshman Khaygen Buchanan landed a spot on the All-State roster, as well. Buchanan morphed into a slap-hitter this year and led the team in batting average (.519) as a result. Touted for both her offensive and defensive speed, Buchanan ultimately had 28 hits (27 were singles), one triple and 16 RBIs. She also swiped 18 bases – good for second on the team.
The Graham Star is currently working on a commemorative magazine, to celebrate the Lady Knights' milestone season. For more details, call 828-479-3383.
Orange Beach, Ala., was named the No. 1 Small Town school by MaxPreps. The Makos won their sixth consecutive state title after a remarkable 46-1 campaign.