By Chris Parker
Conway girls basketball returns just one starter from last season’s four-win team.
Instead of looking for four athletes to replace the four lost starters, head coach Matt Wilson is looking to develop depth and create versatility within the lineup.
“We will have much more versatility this season,” Wilson said. “Our starting five is not as important as being able to play 8-10 deep. It will be nice to mix and match players and plug girls into situations for us to succeed. I expect us to be strong defensively.”
Senior forward Lauren Wissbaum is the lone returning starter. She averaged 4.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game last season.
“Lauren was our best free throw shooter last season and has really developed into a nice shooter outside,” Wilson said.
Trista Simpson returns for her senior year after missing last season due to injury.
“(Simpson) is an experienced ball handler who sets the tone with her hustle and aggressive play,” Wilson said.
Maddy Officer is a third senior who will have an impact.
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“Maddy Officer is a senior forward who worked hard to do anything asked last year coming off our bench,” Wilson said. “She will contribute more for us this year and is a great leader and example to our younger girls.”
Sophomore Katen Wilson will see more varsity time after playing mostly junior varsity as a freshman.
“Katen has developed a nice mid-range shot and works hard at rebounding,” Wilson said.
Freshmen Arianna Hughes, Maddie Thompson and Alayna Richardson will all look to make immediate varsity impacts.
“I hope we are the team that surprises people. We have a lot of new faces and will have a new look as a team,” Wilson said. “Success for us this season is not about wins and losses but about the growth we have. It will be exciting to see our young girls have opportunities to build for the future. At the same time, I am thankful for seniors who know how to be where they need to be on the floor and will push our team to play hard.”
