After many pre-season victories, the Lady Lions Varsity Basketball team began their District journey on Tuesday, December 12. Expectations are high for this year’s talented team, which has a starting five consisting of 4 Seniors and 1 Junior, therefore nervous butterflies were also very high on the team’s list of adversity. This year’s starters are Madison Watson (12), Ry’Nesha Brooks (12), Destiny Henderson (12), Kyrsten Branch (12), and Kyera Abram (11). The District tip off was scheduled at the home court of the Lions against the Malakoff Tigers.

The game began with Teague receiving the possession of the ball. From here, Teague earned the first few points of the game. The intensity level was high from both ends of the court throughout the entire game as the team remained neck and neck in scoring. At the half, Teague was up by 3 points, and each team had gained knowledge on who to shut down. Abram lead the Lions in points and rebounds, so when the second half rolled around the Tigers focused on shutting the Junior post down.  Both teams fought a good fight, but after taking many hard hits the Lions were not able to pull out the win for the night.

This put the Lion’s record at 0-1 for the District Season and 12-4 for the entire season. However, the team is not down and they are not giving up. Head Coach Taylor Sims is filling the next few practices with drills to strengthen the team’s major weaknesses.

“Our weaknesses are free-throws and layups, always has been. Once we fix these issues we will be a very tough opponent.” Said Sims.

The Lions have a BYE this Friday, December 16, which simply means they will not play due to an uneven number of teams in the District. The next District game is over the Christmas break on Monday, December 19, in Mildred. With determination and unfailing effort, the Lions hope to pull their first District win for the season.

After this, the group of girls has a Christmas tournament which begins on December 27 in Troy. This is the annual over night tournament which is one last splash of fun before the seriousness of District consumes their play.

“Last year’s Christmas tournament was a ball, I can hardly wait to return to Troy with my basketball family and hopefully bring back the great gift of a trophy!” Said Junior, Haley Guerrero.

Each team member is ready to contribute all they can to the team in hopes of winning the District Championship and heading on to Playoffs. Best wishes to the Lady Lions and Happy Holidays!