By Derek Shore
Ironically enough, the East Newton Lady Patriots finished as district runner-ups for the second straight season while placing third in the Big 8 Conference in as many seasons.
Even more, coincidental, they posted an identical conference record of 6-2 from the 2014-15 campaign and will have to replace two starters after doing so the previous winter under third-year head coach Erin Rice.
As Rice recapped on the 2015-16 season, she characterized it as a “successful one” from the standpoint that her Lady Patriots competed at a high level against higher classified programs like Carthage, Webb City, Neosho, and Carl Junction.
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That said, East Newton now have to fill the voids left by graduating guards Emily Sorrell and Kortney Cambers, an All-Big 8 First Team honoree.
Despite the losses, the Lady Patriots are in good hands with the return of 1,000 point scorer, Koty Cooper. The 6-footer is the leading returning scorer and a First Team All-Big 8 selection after averaging 16.5 points per game along with 7.5 rebounds through 28 games last season.
“Koty is a kid with both guard and post skills,” Rice said. “Her size causes a lot of issues when she plays the guard spot. She will be playing a major role in this season as a guard.”
Kanah Burkey, who Rice praised for being the team’s her “trash” player (willing to do whatever is needed) is hoping for more favorable luck after missing parts of last season due to a concussion injury.
“She was a major part of our success as a team,” Rice said. “Her ability to rebound is what makes her a great player. We are very excited to have Kanah back this season.”
In addition, Rice returns a trio of reliable juniors looking to step into more prominent roles. Those include juniors, Kinsey Sorrell, Jaylen Hayward, and Brynne Smith.
Sorrell was the floor general for the Patriots last season and will assume those duties once again. Rice believes with the additional experience she will able to lead the team and minimize turnovers. Hayward came off the bench and a played a vital role as a guard last year.
Rice expects her to develop a 3-point shot, providing a long ball threat and play a huge part on defense. She also added Smith was huge to the team’s success last season and has a nose for the ball, who should be able to produce double-digit rebounds each game.
When asked about the style of play, Rice says they have the type of team that will be able to play fast. However, she emphasized the defensive end will be the top priority this season.
“Our goal this season is going to be keeping teams below 40 points,” she said. “We will have a presence in the post that will give teams issues. Another defense goal we will have this season is to out-rebound teams on both offense and defense by ten or more.”
Ultimately, East Newton has their sights set high for this upcoming season, seeing a Big 8 title on the horizon.
“Overall, I expect to compete for a conference title this season,” Rice said. “We have the talent and drive that we will need. Another goal is to be undefeated at home and protect our home floor.”
“Our conference is going to be very tough, but we are very excited to compete for a title.”
The Lady Patriots open the season on the road against Webb City on Nov. 22.
