By Chris Parker
Pierce City girls basketball returns a strong senior class coming off a 13-13 season.
“Our team has a group of seniors with a large amount of varsity experience that could be a momentum shifter if leveraged well,” Pierce City head coach Ragan Kleiboeker said. “As long as they lead and share their knowledge, it will only help us come February.”
The four returning seniors are Addison Avondet, Liliana Lasker, Faron Linn and Paige Fenske.
Avondet scored 6.5 points per game with 4.5 rebounds and a team-high 3.4 assists per game.
“Addison has been our assist leader for multiple seasons and stepped up in scoring situations last year,” Kleiboeker said. “Her ability to set her teammates up for success has made her an ideal guard.”
Lasker led the returning group in scoring, rebounding and in steals with 10.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.6 steals per game.
“Lili has the heart of a lion,” Kleiboeker said. “She works hard on both ends of the court and never fails to be a threat.”
Linn is the second-leading returning scorer with 8.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.3 steals and 2 assists per game.
“Faron loves the game of basketball and it’s evident on the court,” Kleiboeker said. “Her experience and passion will help set our tempo.”
Fenske scored 4.2 points per game with 4.4 rebounds, 2.3 steals and 1.6 assists per game.
“Paige is a beast on defense who has the potential to change ball games,” Kleiboeker said. “She gives her all regardless of the circumstance.”
Andi Himes rounds out the returning players with significant varsity stats. She averaged 2 points and 2.8 rebounds per game.
“Andi had some varsity time on the court last year, but she grew tremendously over this summer,” Kleiboeker said. “The energy she brings is electric.”
Sophomore Layla Jones and junior Payton Copeland are newcomers to watch.
“Layla is a small guard that plays bigger than her size. Her intelligence and willingness to get better will be a difference maker,” Kleiboeker said. “Payton is a competitive individual who has the capacity to be great. She enjoys facing adversity head on and will have a significant impact this year.”
Pierce City opens the season Dec. 1-6 at the Crane Lady Pirate Invitational.
“In order for a season to be successful in my eyes, I hope to see the girls transform off and, on the court,” Kleiboeker said. “Not only should we be pushing to add to the wins column, but each girl should be a positive representation of our program.”
