Last year, the girl’s basketball team was led by a group of seven seniors. 

With those seniors now graduated, it gives other girls an opportunity to step up. 

Head coach Kim Schmidt said “Not only did we lose a lot of playing time, we also lost some leadership roles so it will be good to see who steps up to fill those shoes.”

After finishing last season 10-12, the Owls hope to improve this season. Thus far, the team is just 1-3. However, they’ve lost two games by a combined four points. 

Schmidt said “I am excited to get another season underway.   It is nice to start this season with a little more certainty and normalcy than last year.” 

In the Southside tournament this week, the Owls were able to beat Hancock 43-18. Senior Riley Siegel was named to the all-tournament team. 

Schmidt said, “Riley has really stepped up and been a consistent ball handler for us and is a great passer. When she looks to score, she is a weapon for us.” 

With more playing time available, this year’s seniors are hopeful that the team will improve throughout the season. Senior Peyton Montgomery leads the Owls with 11 rebounds per game. Siegel leads the Owls in steals and shooting percentage. 

Siegel said, “It’s going to take some time for us to know how to play together, with all of the new people that came up. I think we will figure it out and be a better team than last year.” 

Senior Cierra Parker said, “After losing the seniors last year, I think we will have to build more chemistry with all the younger kids and learn how everyone plays together. I think it could go pretty well if everyone puts in the work and we all mesh together. “

Despite losing so many key seniors, the team returns leading scorer Reagan Daly, who averaged 11.6 points per game last season.  

“Reagan has worked to become a complete player. Her defense has improved tremendously and she’s working towards being our floor leader out there. And, of course, she can really put the ball in the hoop,” Schmidt said. 

Last season, the Owls lost to Rockwood Summit in the first round of districts. 

Siegel said, “If we all come ready to play, then I believe that we will make it farther into districts than we did last year.”