Larsen is only returning starter

By JANET POST

Staff writer

The challenge for the 2013-14 Peabody-Burns High School Lady Warriors will be scoring.

“Returning players will have to score points consistently for us to be competitive,” said head coach Daren Schroeder, now in his 11th season at Peabody-Burns high school. “Eliminating turnovers and rebounding on both ends of the floor will also be important.

“The players do have a good grasp of what is expected and understand our system,” he added. “They work extremely hard and strive to improve every game. If the scoring improves and they take care of the ball, they will be competitive as the season progresses.”

Junior forward Brianna Larsen is the only returning starter from last year. At 5-10, she is the tallest of the PBHS squad. Much of the scoring expectation rests on her shoulders. She can attack the basket off penetration. She also has the ability to anticipate on defense, which will lead to steals/turnovers.

Larsen will be joined by four other returning letter winners.

Senior Jordan Gibson, 5-5, will play both inside and on the perimeter this season. Rebounding is a big part of her skill set. She has come off the bench the last two years and will be expected to contribute heavily this year.

Rylie McDowell will unfortunately miss the beginning of the season with an injury. The 5-4 junior guard has good basketball knowledge and will bring smart play to the team upon her return. She will have to score from the perimeter.

Junior guard Christa Elliott, 5-7, will also be needed to score from the perimeter. She can shoot the ball, but will have to become consistent for team success.

Katy Benson, a 5-6 sophomore, will play point guard and be expected to score. Defensively, she will have to be in the post as well as the perimeter. She is athletic and will be the floor leader.

Alex Lewis missed last season due to an injury. The 5-8 sophomore will help post play and be the anchor for zone defense. Inside game success depends on her.

Alanis Bishop will be a new varsity face. She has a good understanding of the program and will be expected to contribute successful minutes in games throughout the season.

Brian Lightner will assist Schroeder again this season, which begins at home Friday against Chase County.