By Chris Parker
Conway girls basketball has a new head coach in Kodey Weaver this season. He was head coach of the Macks Creek girls program last season.
The Lady Bears are coming off a four-win season and haven’t won double-digit games since the 2020-21. Weaver sees the potential to build the program into a consistent winner.
“I saw a lot of potential in the current players as well as in the younger grades coming up through the program,” Weaver said. “There’s a solid foundation here, and I’m excited about the opportunity to help build something special at Conway.”
Weaver will focus on changing the culture.
“As a program, we have to establish and commit to a standard every single day,” Weaver said. “Winning doesn’t happen overnight, it’s the result of consistent hard work, discipline, and a positive mindset. If we stay focused, work together, and bring the right energy and attitude each day, I believe we’ll start to see that trend change.”
One all-conference player in Arianna Hughes returns this season. The junior averaged 12.7 points with 3.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 2.5 steals per game as a sophomore.
“Arianna is an explosive guard who can attack the basket and knock down the three,” Weaver said. “She handles the ball well and will play a key role in initiating our offense.”
Junior Madison Thompson is a strong rebounder coming off a sophomore season where she averaged 8.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.3 blocks per game.
“Maddie brings great size, strength, and a tremendous work ethic to our lineup,” Weaver said. “She’s a strong rebounder and has really improved her finishing around the rim this offseason. I’m excited to see her growth and impact this year.”
Seniors Katen Wilson (forward) and Miley Weeks (guard) return for their final seasons.
Wilson contributed 4 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.
“Katen has put in a lot of work on her perimeter shot and uses her length effectively on defense and rebounding,” Weaver said. “As a senior leader, I expect her to set the tone for us with her effort and composure.”
Weeks averaged 2.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal per game.
“Miley is a quick, aggressive defender who can also shoot at a high percentage,” Weaver said. “She’s embracing her leadership role this season and will be a key contributor on both ends of the floor.”
Alayna Richardson and Hailey Doehring round out the returning players.
Richardson is a junior guard who averaged 2.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.3 steals per game.
“Alayna has the potential to have a breakout year,” Weaver said. “She runs the floor well, can knock down shots, and is an excellent defender. We’ll rely on her to bring energy and consistency on defense this season.”
Doehring is a sophomore forward who returns with averages of 1.8 points and 3.1 rebounds per game.
“Hailey is a strong, athletic forward who runs the floor well and brings a solid defensive presence,” Weaver said. “I’m excited to watch her continue to develop and gain confidence this season.”
Olivia Rumfelt (junior guard), Allie Anderson (sophomore forward) and Lucy Dampier (sophomore forward) are newcomers to watch.
Weaver on Rumfelt: “Olivia had a strong summer for us. She’s quick, competitive, and brings a defensive edge to our team.”
Weaver on Anderson: “Although Allie didn’t play last year, she’s already made a positive impression with her effort and rebounding ability. She has a lot of potential and a great work ethic.”
Weaver on Dampier: “Lucy is returning to the game after some time away, but she’s a hardworking player who’s already fitting in well with the team. We’re excited to see her continue to grow and contribute.”
This group will lean on defense for its identity.
“Our biggest strengths will be our varsity experience and our defensive mindset,” Weaver said. “Defense will be our foundation every game, it’s what we’ll rely on to stay competitive and create opportunities offensively.”
Conway opens the season on Nov. 24 at home against Cabool.
“Being competitive and playing hard every game would allow me to consider this season a success. If we can play together, play with great effort, and maintain a great attitude every night, I think we can do big things,” Weaver said. “I’m most excited about the mindset and determination this group has shown. The girls have set clear goals for themselves and have worked hard all off-season to reach them. Their commitment and growth make me confident that this will be a fun and rewarding year.”
