By Amanda Perkins (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
After a 16-win season, the Willow Springs Lady Bears return all but one of their starting crew and look to work on their record books.
“I am very excited about this upcoming season,” said head Coach David Cox, who enters his second year at the helm, although he has served as an assistant coach with the program since 2010. “We have a solid group of returning girls that understand what we are trying to accomplish as a team.”
First team all-conference and all-district junior guard Chloe Jones broke the single season scoring record last season with 599 points, averaging 21.4 points per game, and led the team in rebounds (5.3 rpg) and assists (4 apg).
“She is a tremendous player,” said Coach Cox. “She will be one of the best players in our conference and area this year. She can do it all. Chloe will be a leader for us and set the tone in every game we play.”
Junior Sydney Stuart (5’9”) is a solid athlete who will contribute on offense and defense.
“She is our best defender and will be asked to be a leader on the floor,” said Cox. Stuart averaged 4.5 rebounds per game in her sophomore season.
Standing at 6’1”, junior Paisley Crudgington is a strong inside presence for the Lady Bears. “She will be a very important factor in rebounding and defense this season,” Cox said.
Sophie Jackson added 5.4 points and 4.5 rebounds per game and was the team’s third leading scorer. The 5’10” junior “does a good job around the basket,” per her coach.
Senior Mckensie Collins “brings toughness and athleticism to our lineup,” said Cox.
Alexis Sigman is a 6’1” sophomore who brings size and athleticism to the table. “She will be an extremely important player for us this season,” said Coach Cox. “She has worked hard to improve her game.”
Junior Karis Cochran “is a really smart player who will be an important role player,” said Cox. Classmate Emma Grogan “has a nice outside shot and will be helping to handle the ball this year,” Coach said.
Allie Adams, 5’10” sophomore, “brings a ton of energy to our team and can help in the post,” said Coach Cox.
The Lady Bears will be working toward goals of a 20-win season, being in the championship game of each tournament, a SCA championship, and a district championship.
Coach Cox said his team’s strength is their chemistry. “That comes from the foundation we were able to build last year,” he said. “Having so many girls back this season allows us to start at a good place in order to build on that foundation.”
The Lady Bears host Mansfield in their home opener December 6.
