By Chris Parker
Fordland girls basketball posted a third straight season with at least 19 wins going 20-7 last year.
An extremely coachable group returns this season according to head coach Tarrah Stephens.
“I’m most excited about the energy and willingness to learn this group of players brings,” Stephens said. “They are coachable, positive, and eager to improve every day. Seeing them grow together as a team and develop their skills gives me a lot of optimism for what we can accomplish this season.”
Kayleigh Steimel is one of the top returning players after she earned first-team all-conference honors as a sophomore.
“Hopefully Kayleigh will step into a leadership role and use her experience to help guide some of our younger players and continue to be a steady contributor when she’s on the floor,” Stephens said. “Her versatility allows her to contribute in a variety of ways and fill multiple roles when needed. When it comes to what position she will play, I believe she is capable of playing anywhere on the court based on the needs of the team.”
A trio of seniors in Chloe Spoon, Rilee Wheeler and Elliana Garber also return.
Spoon is a guard.
“Chloe will provide strong leadership on and off the court,” Stephens said. “Her experience and composure at the guard position help set the tone for our team.”
Wheeler will see time at guard and forward.
“Rilee brings a great attitude and energy to everything she does,” Stephens said. “She has the ability to elevate our team’s intensity and keep her teammates engaged.”
Garber plays at forward.
“Eliana’s versatility allows her to play multiple roles on the floor,” Stephens said. “She’s dependable and adapts well to whatever the team needs.”
Sophey Jackson is the lone returning junior.
“Sophey is athletic and handles the ball well,” Stephens said. “She is currently recovering from an injury, but we look forward to her returning later in the season and contributing to the team.”
Sophomore guard/forward Reese Holmes rounds out the returning players.
“Reese adds athleticism and a competitive spirit to our lineup,” Stephens said. “Her energy and work ethic make her an exciting player to watch.”
Freshmen Lidia Vickers (forward), Sophia Glenn (guard) and Kaylynn Young (guard) are all in line for immediate varsity minutes.
Stephens on Vickers: “Lidia is long, athletic, and shows a lot of potential as she continues to develop her game.”
Stephens on Glenn: “Sophia is a ball of energy and always ready to compete. Her enthusiasm is contagious and lifts those around her.”
Stephens on Young: “Kaylynn brings great effort and positivity every day. She’s eager to learn and always has a ‘yes, coach’ attitude that makes her a joy to work with.”
Stephens wants to see her team grow mentally on the court.
“We’re focused on improving our basketball IQ and decision-making,” Stephens said. “As the team gains experience and works on reading the game, we expect to see better shot selection and faster, more confident play.”
Fordland opens the season Nov. 24 at home against Ava.
“For us, a successful season will be seeing the players grow together as a team, improve their skills, and develop confidence on the court,” Stephens said. “If we can build a culture of effort, positivity, and coachability while competing hard in every game, I’ll consider the season a success.”
