By Chris Parker
Crane girls basketball returns a pair of all-conference players from last season’s 16-win team in Lilly Woodward and Gracie Rich.
Woodward earned first-team all-conference honors last season.
“Athleticism (is a strength for her). She runs the floor very well,” Crane head coach Jeremy Mullins said. “Her scoring ability inside and out (has improved). She has worked really hard on the offensive part of the game.”
Rich was second team all-conference last season.
“We look for Gracie to have a big impact on both sides of the ball this year,” Mullins said. “Along with her tough-nosed defense while adding to our scoring more this year.”
Kailey Vaught (senior guard), Sayd Vaught (junior post), Allie Frieze (junior post), Hunter Cleveland (junior forward), Taylor Cleveland (sophomore guard) and Averie Amos (sophomore post) also return for Crane.
Mullins on Kailey Vaught: “She will be looking to add to the Crane Lady Pirates on the defensive end of the floor while continuing to put points on the scoreboard.”
Mullins on Sayd Vaught: “She will be asked again to be the defensive leader on the floor. As a junior this year, she will also be expected to be a leader on the offensive end of the court.”
Mullins on Frieze: “There are high expectations for Allie this year. Her development in the post was very obvious this summer. If she continues with hard work she will be a big contributor for the Lady Pirates.”
Mullins on Hunter Cleveland: “As one of the most athletic players on the team, Hunter will be expected this year to contribute both at the guard and post positions.”
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Mullins on Taylor Cleveland: “With a love of basketball second to none on the team and a solid performance in her freshman campaign, Taylor will be asked as a sophomore to be a floor leader.”
Mullins on Amos: “Showing flashes of solid performances in the post last year, Averie will be looking to make an impact this year.”
Crane opens the season on Nov. 20 at Ash Grove.
The goal for Crane this year is simple: “I would like to see the Lady Pirates back in a district championship game,” Mullins said.
