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The Strafford Lady Indians have won five of the last six girls basketball state titles in Class 3, a big part of that has been the Compton family.
Kyndall Compton was a part of the first four titles for the Lady Indians, and now her younger sister is making her mark.
Emma Compton has been a part of two of those championship teams, and is leading the way for Strafford to return to the finals.
Basketball has been a part of Emma’s life for as long as she can remember.
“About when I was three. It’s just always been a part of my life. Growing up basketball was everything to me and I’ve grown up playing it,” Emma said.
Emma has started varsity since her sophomore season, the last time Strafford won state.
“Sophomore year it was a lot of pressure, and a lot of people didn’t think we could do it,” She said.
Now as a senior, it’s a new year, with the same expectations.
“It’s actually kind of a lot of pressure, especially being a senior and it being my last year and we want to reach that goal for our last year. It’s also exciting to have that goal to reach,” said Emma.
Coming into the season Emma’s averaging over 15 points and 3 assists a game.
“Toughness, one of the biggest competitors you’re going to see, plays the game extremely hard. With her speed she’s always going to get to the basket,” Lady Indians Basketball Coach Dustin Larsen said.
She’s also averaging almost 3 steals a game.
“She just brings so much intensity defensively, just plays at a high level and doesn’t want to lose,” Larsen said.
“I built a mentality that I’m quicker than a lot of people and it helps me a lot,” Emma added.
Emma’s one of four seniors for Strafford, and a team captain, and is taking on her leadership role by leading by example.
“Emma doesn’t have to say a lot because of how hard she plays. One thing she has improved on is speaking up and communicating, but when you play with that intensity that speaks for itself,” said Larsen.
And she’s looking to lead the Lady Indians on another championship run.
“More than words can even explain, just the thought of it just excites me,” said Emma.
