By Chris Parker
Warsaw girls basketball won nine games last season, which was the most for the program since the 2009-10 season.
A strong off-season has the Lady Wildcats looking for even more this season.
“These ladies don’t quit,” Warsaw head coach Matt Henderson said. “They play with the same work ethic and hustle no matter the score. They spent significant time playing this past summer, which has gained team confidence and momentum heading into this upcoming season.”
Senior Keira Mostaffa and junior Tanna Howe return to lead Warsaw as multi-year starters.
“Leadership and expanding knowledge of the game, along with ball handling and shooting ability, will help these two ladies leading the Lady Cats again this season,” Henderson said. “These two topped out leadership last season in points, assists, steals and were also in top three in rebounding. These two lead by example, and I am excited to see them involve upcoming post players to help the Warsaw Lady Cats to have a more successful season this year.”
Howe scored 14.9 points per game with 4.9 rebounds, 2.9 steals and 1.8 assists. Mostaffa averaged 7.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.7 steals per game.
Junior Hailey Ferguson along with sophomores Jenna Gerken, Alenah Yoder and Maylee Slavens return in the paint.
“I am expecting a very competitive inside game,” Henderson said. “Ferguson is very aware of her post player counterparts and always willing to get the ball closer to the rim. The chemistry between Slavens and Gerken is like nothing I’ve ever gotten to coach. (They are) unselfish and cooperative. These two will secure success for the team this year as they continue to gain maturity throughout the upcoming season. Yoder is just beginning to get her legs underneath her. She gets 22-plus inches off the floor, and should bring lots of competitiveness to rebounding, as she continues to get stronger every day.”
The perimeter will feature junior Jesse Bilderback along with sophomores Maddie Reimund, Isabella Schwartz and Sarah Miller.
Freshmen looking for playing time include Mikayla Wenberg, Mylie Oliver and Becka Henderson.
