By JIM WALKER

Tribune Sports Editor

COLUMBUS — Ironton opponents knew Nikki Elswick was a very good player who drew most of their attention.

Now the entire state knows.

The Ironton Lady Fighting Tigers 6-foot senior center gained state-wide attention after being named to the Associated Press Division III All-Ohio third team on Tuesday.

Elswick averaged 20.6 points a game along with 11.9 rebounds. She shot 55 percent from the field, 68 percent from the foul line and 34 percent from the 3-point line.

Elswick was a first team Southeast Ohio All-District selection and was a candidate for the district Player of the Year honor.

As a junior, Elswick was named to the Division III state tournament team when Ironton reached the state semifinals.

Elswick has already signed a letter-of-intent to play next fall at Shawnee State University.

Also honored on the All-Ohio team was Chesapeake Lady Panthers Amanda Ruffner.

The 5-10 junior led by Lady Panthers with 19.1 points and 7.3 rebounds a contest. She was a second team all-district selection.

Oak Hill — the AP poll champions at 20-0 and state tournament bound — landed Breanna Butler on the first team and Lakin Caudill on the second unit. Doug Hale was named the Coach of the year along with Jack Billing of Anna.

The Player of the Year was shared by Raven Ferguson of Columbus Africentric and Ally Malott of Middletown Madison.

A complete list of the All-Ohio team appears on Page 10.