By Amanda Perkins (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
The Lamar Lady Tigers lost two guards to graduation and face tough competition in the Big 8; Derek Judd returns for his eighth season leading the squad.
“Our theme for the season is a quote from the movie ‘A League of Their Own’: it’s supposed to be hard. Our girls are ready to take the program to the next step and put in the work.”
Zavrie Wiss averaged 13 points per game last year and returns for her senior season.
“From tip to buzzer, her motor never stops,” said Coach Judd. “She had a big summer for us, and we expect that to carry over to the season.”
Junior Baylee Heckadon averaged 7 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.
“Baylee made a huge leap last year,” said Judd. “She’s capable of making her presence known on both ends of the floor with her long legs and arms. She’s a good rebounder with the ability to take it rim to rim at any point in the game.”
He noted her strong work ethic and propensity to do what is asked of her.
Kynlee McColluch, senior, averaged 8 points and 6.5 rebounds per game and “is more than capable of getting a double-double every night,” said Judd. “Kynlee has shown the ability and drive to do all the little things that make a team successful: getting on the floor, boxing out, and defending girls much taller than her are things that go unnoticed by most crowds but are must-haves for coaches,” he added.
Junior Breanna Morey “is a quick athlete with a high motor,” per her coach. After a successful summer with extended playing time, she looks to play an increased role this season.
“I believe she will show a lot of improvement on both ends of the floor by using her quick hands and feet,” said Judd.
Lydia Nolting, junior, played many varsity minutes last year and earned some starts.
“We never have to worry about her effort, as she always gives all that she has,” said Coach Judd. “There is no doubt that when a shot goes up, she will find someone to box out and go after the rebound.”
Junior Rowan Parks was injured early last season but has recovered and played the full volleyball season.
“She is a high IQ player with a smooth shot and a good passer,” said Judd. “We are looking forward to having her back in the fold this season.”
Several new faces to the varsity crew will add depth to the roster.
Eliana Bartholomew, 5’9” sophomore, is a post player who earned varsity playing time this summer and is expected to continue her contributions.
“Eliana has a fantastic work ethic,” said Judd.
Injury has impacted sophomore Peyton Eddie, who had a strong summer for the team. The Lady Tigers hope she will return during the season; in the meantime, she will bring energy to the team from the bench.
Sophomore Sadie Judd provides the team with good minutes and is a guard with a nice jump shot, per her coach.
“She is aggressive on defense and will find the block out,” he added.
Classmate Jaxsyn Lovan “is a good ball handler who has the ability to knock down open shots from the outside as well,” said Coach Judd. “She sees the court well and will take it to the paint.”
Another potential contributor is Taryn Querry, sophomore, who “is an excellent shooter who showed the ability to be a good playmaker this summer,” said Judd. “She sees the court well.”
Freshman Chrislyn Dixon (5’10”) earned varsity time during the summer and is expected to contribute this winter.
“We expect big things from her,” said Judd. “She’s an excellent athlete who can play inside and out. Her size and ability will make her hard to guard.”
Emma Oliver improved over the summer, and the freshman brings a spark of positivity to the team. “She’s a good defender who made strides on offense,” said Judd.
Jesika Rinner, freshman, is a post player who has shown the ability to rebound and to score in the post.
Last year’s 10-win season ended in a second-round district loss, and Judd said the team used that as motivation, noting they worked to “improve their individual skills as well as pushing each other to be better for the team.” A tough regular season schedule and difficult conference play should prepare the girls to play their best basketball at district time.
“Our main tangible goal is to get back to a district championship game and finish with a victory,” said Coach Judd, “but the biggest goal for the program is to continue to grow as individuals, students, and players. We have a really good group of ladies on this team, and we want to continue to be an example on and off the court.”
Lamar will host Butler, McDonald County, and El Dorado Springs in a jamboree on November 18. Their home opener is on December 13 against Pittsburg, KS.
