The Clever girls marched to a 21-7 record last season that saw the Lady Blue Jays finish runner-up in both the SWCL and in district to historically dominant Strafford.
“We were focused on getting to the district championship game and the girls really were intent on getting there and giving Strafford a fight. The girls did a good job of handling any adversity that came there way and really became a tight-knit unit as the season progressed,” Clever head coach Dan Jones said.
Clever used a three-headed attack for Allie Clevenger, Harper Little and Hannah Maples last season. All three averaged between 12.1 and 12.5 points per game. Maples graduated, but both Clevenger and Little return this season to lead the attack again.
“They (Clevenger and Little) hate to lose and bring a never back down attitude that is great for our team. I expect them to lead by example and do all the little things that many players won’t do or don’t do well,” Jones said. “For us to take the next step to be considered as one of the real elite teams in the area they will need to help us push everyone to pay attention to the fundamental things we ask for and drill them to do every day.”
Little is a versatile piece after averaging 5.3 rebounds, 3.7 steals and 2.7 assists per game in addition to her scoring last year. Clevenger chipped in 2.5 rebounds, 2.1 steals and 1.6 assists per game.
Abi Menzies is poised for a breakout in her junior season after scoring 9.4 points per game last year and leading Clever in rebounds (5.9) and blocks (2.1) last year.
“Abi Menzies has the ability to be one of the premier players in the area. She has all of the intangibles,” Jones said. “I know Abi is ready to show that she is not just another good player in the area but a great player.”
Tessa Newman will provide a fourth option for the Blue Jays after posting 5.9 points per game as a junior.
Sophomores Madison Gladney and Camille Bishop will transition to full time varsity after strong junior varsity seasons last year.
Jordan Langley is a transfer from Hurley who was a two-time All-Mark Twain Conference selection. The junior has the ability to light it up from deep, as she holds the Hurley record for most 3-point makes in a game with 10.
Clever is ready to improve on last year’s 21-win season thanks the talent returning and a team-first mentality.
“I expect them to work harder than ever before and for them to work together as one unit sacrificing personal gains for team success when needed,” Jones said.
Clever opens the season on Nov. 20 at Stockton.
