Panhandle-Plains Basketball Magazine 2019-20

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Good luck to the West Texas A&M University 2019-20 men’s and women’s teams! Always supporting the Buffs and Lady Buffs!

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Texas Tech joins nation’s elite Red Raiders narrowly miss national championship A year after crashing the NCAA Elite Eight, Coach Chris Beard’s Texas Tech Red Raiders powered their way not only to the Final Four but to the 2019 Division 1 national championship game against Virginia, where it took overtime for the Cavaliers to defeat Tech 85-77. The Raider standouts included sophomore Jarrett Culver, the Lubbock Coronado graduate and former Panhandle-Plains Basketball Super Team member who became the No. 6 pick in the NBA draft and joined the Minnesota Timberwolves. Tech was ranked No. 2 in the final Associated Press college basketball poll.

Photos by Elise Bressler Texas Tech Athletics Jarrett Culver

Coach Chris Beard, Brandone Francis

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Photo by Ronald Cortes

State Champs in action Lauren Catherman, a Trinity Christian junior, drives past a Lubbock Christian defender. The Lady Lions later topped Houston Lutheran North in the 2019 TAPPS Class 4A state championship game.

Photo courtesy Trinity Christian High School

Amarillo High junior Zayla Tinner goes to the basket against Fort Bend Hightower in the state semifinals. The Lady Sandies went on to defeat Frisco Liberty for the 2019 Class 5A state championship.

Junior Cambrie Heiman of Nazareth elevates for a jump shot in the 2019 Class 1A state championship win over Dodd City in San Antonio.

2019 State Champions

The Amarillo High Lady Sandies in Class 5A, the Nazareth Swiftettes in Class 1A and the Trinity Christian Lady Lions of Lubbock in TAPPS Class 4A all won state championships in March 2019.

Amarillo High Lady Sandies

Photo by Steve Satterwhite

Nazareth Swiftettes

Photo by Cindy Huseman

Trinity Christian Lady Lions

Yearbook Tech was great, but that wasn’t all............................2 Cover Boys and Girls................................................3 Cover Photos Up Close.............................................4 AHS girls/Repeat state champions............................6 Naz girls/23rd state title.............................................9 Trinity/Lady Lions take TAPPS..............................12 Lady Chaps/‘A joyful surprise’...............................15 WT Buffs/To Elite Eight again...............................18 1948-1982 Queens/Naismith HOF.........................21 The 300 Club...........................................................23 AC reunion/Badgers recall 1970s...........................24 Area State Championship Teams............................26 Basketball News......................................................27 Basketball Briefs.....................................................31 Basketball Obituaries..............................................37 Basketball Camps....................................................40 Texas Tech Men......................................................41 Texas Tech Women.................................................44 West Texas A&M Men............................................47 West Texas A&M Women.......................................51 Lubbock Christian Men..........................................54 Lubbock Christian Women.....................................56 Wayland Men..........................................................59 Wayland Women.....................................................61 Carolyn Bush in WBHOF.......................................63 South Plains Men....................................................65 Panhandle-Plains Basketball Staff

PUBLISHERS: Sheri Haynes, 806-662-2312; Mike Haynes, 806-670-9017 PRODUCTION: Hartsfield Design, 806-748-5403 EDITORIAL OFFICE: 6210 Cornell St., Amarillo, Texas 79109 ADVERTISING OFFICE: Box 232, McLean, Texas 79057

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

2019-2020 VOL. 47

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

South Plains Women...............................................67 Clarendon College Men..........................................69 Clarendon College Women.....................................70 2018-2019 Postseason Results................................73 Panhandle-Plains Super Teams...............................74 Class 6A at a Glance Preseason Picks/Honor Roll....................................76 Class 5A at a Glance Preseason Picks/Honor Roll....................................82 Class 4A at a Glance Preseason Picks/Honor Roll..................................105 Class 3A at a Glance Preseason Picks/Honor Roll..................................122 Class 2A at a Glance Preseason Picks/Honor Roll..................................171 Class 1A at a Glance Preseason Picks/Honor Roll..................................270 Private Schools at a Glance Preseason Picks/Honor Roll..................................358 Brandon Schneider/Redin Award..........................362 Parting Shots.........................................................363 Index of Schools...................................................368 FOUNDERS: Danny Andrews, Garet von Netzer PRINTING AND BINDING: Cenveo Printing, Amarillo, Texas; Texoma Web Offset Printing, Gainesville, Texas; C&R Bindery, Dallas, Texas ADDITIONAL COPIES: Extra copies of the magazine may be obtained by sending $12 to Panhandle-Plains Basketball Magazine, 6210 Cornell St., Amarillo, TX 79109.

Special Features

1

Tech was great, but that wasn’t all

FOR MOST BASKETBALL FANS on the South Plains and Only Here in the Texas Panhandle, not much could top the astounding run by As usual, check the Table of Contents for these features that you the Texas Tech Red Raiders to the NCAA Division 1 championship can’t find anywhere else in print or online: game in March 2019 and the outstanding group of young men who • Lists and photos of this year’s Cover Boys and Girls almost pulled off an unbelievable national title. • The 300 Club, listing area coaches with at least 300 wins That remarkable feat by Coach Chris Beard’s team gets plenty • The area’s all-time boys and girls UIL state title teams of attention in this 47th edition of Panhandle-Plains Basketball, • Basketball News as does Tech’s Jarrett Culver, the Lubbock Coronado product (and • Basketball Camp Directory former magazine Super Team member) who now plays in the NBA • 2018-19 UIL postseason results for the Minnesota Timberwolves. But it wasn’t the only noteworthy • 2019-20 Super Teams accomplishment by area athletes between the baskets. • 2019-20 previews of area college teams The Lady Chaps of Lubbock • 2019-20 previews of area Christian University did reach high school teams the top of their mountain, going • District predictions to double overtime to win the • High school honor rolls. NCAA Division 2 championship Lookin’ Back… with a 95-85 victory over SouthTo confirm that basketball western Oklahoma State, our prowess has been familiar in the neighbor over in Weatherford. region for a long time, turn back Dave Wohlfarth tells that to the beginning of our colorstory on these pages as LCU page section. You’ll find the Coach Steve Gomez looks back Lookin’ Back page that shows on the Lady Chaps’ second eight talented players who were NCAA national title in just four on the cover of the 1979-80 seasons. Panhandle-Plains Basketball. Lubbock Christian University Lady Chaps And Lance Lahnert’s in-depth Plainview and Borger each had 2018-2019 NCAA Division 2 National Champions interview with West Texas A&M two players on the cover 40 years men’s coach Tom Brown reveals ago along with representatives of the motivation that took the Buffs Gruver, Dumas, Canyon and Palo Duro. through their second straight record-setting season as WT advanced And Thanks to the Elite Eight again with a school-high 34 wins against four losses. Each year, this publication is not possible without hundreds or Follow that up with three Texas high school championships in thousands of people and scores of schools. Again, we are grateful to the Panhandle-Plains region – nothing surprising there – and our the coaches who send us photos and information about their teams; tradition of outstanding basketball marched on. the cheerleader sponsors, booster club volunteers, coaches and others Three Girls’ Championships who handle the advertising sales that allow us to continue publishing The Amarillo High Lady Sandies took the Class 5A state title for and serve as valuable fundraisers for their schools; the indispensable the second consecutive year with a 47-42 win over Frisco Liberty at the businesses, booster clubs, parents and others who buy the ads; and Alamodome. It was the AHS girls’ fourth championship overall, with the college sports media specialists who help us cover their teams. the other two having come in 1993 and 1994 under Coach Dale Blaut. And thanks to writers Dave Wohlfarth and Lance Lahnert; Current Coach Jeff Williams has the talent to make a run at a copy editor Cathy Martindale; advertising specialist Tricia Odom; three-peat in 2019-20. encouragers Danny Andrews and Garet von Netzer; typist and detail If you want numbers, look no further than Nazareth, which person Kathy Haynes; photographers Steve Satterwhite, Timothy achieved its own three-peat by defeating Dodd City by 19 points in Davis, Elise Bressler, Rik Anderson and Cindy Huseman; production the Class 1A title game, bettering the 13-point margin by which the experts Mark Hartsfield, Gina Sims, Tony Freeman, Russ Anthony Swiftettes had beaten the same school for the championship a year and Vickie Shepherd; circulation man Sam Haynes; Texoma Web earlier. It was the Nazareth girls’ 23rd state title – and the fifth in the Offset Printing in Gainesville; Cenveo Printing in Amarillo; C&R past six years. Bindery in Dallas; and Hartsfield Design in Lubbock. And Lubbock’s Trinity Christian Lady Lions captured their ninth As for the athletes and coaches, here’s to higher goals and more state championship as Coach Nick Catherman’s charges took out success in 2019-20. Houston Lutheran North 72-34 for the TAPPS Class 4A crown. Turn Mike Haynes and Sheri Haynes just a few pages for stories on those triumphant seasons by the Lady Co-Publishers Sandies, Swiftettes and Lady Lions.

2 Special Features Basketball 2012-2013 Panhandle-Plains

2019-2020 Change Panhandle-Plains Basketball 1 Section

2019-2020 Cover Boys and Girls The girls and boys on the cover of Panhandle-Plains Basketball Magazine represent the best that Texas South Plains and Panhandle high schools have to offer. The cover tradition is in its 47th year. Below is a list of the outstanding players who were selected for the 2019-2020 cover: Boys Abernathy........................................................................... Bryson Daily Abernathy.......................................................................Sagen Gonzales Abernathy..............................................................................Miles Keith Amarillo High............................................................... Brendan Hausen Amarillo High.............................................................. Damonze Woods Bushland............................................................................... Jake Orcutt Canyon.............................................................................. Jarrad Gomez Coronado......................................................................Daequan Tillman Crosbyton........................................................................... Maurice Carr Crosbyton.......................................................................... Landon Clark Dalhart.............................................................................. Zach Barsalou Dumas................................................................................Aiden Venzor Frenship......................................................................... Noble Robinson Gruver................................................................................ Carter Armes Gruver................................................................................Jalin Conyers Hedley................................................................................Jordan Upton Highland Park............................................................... Hunter Nicholas Littlefield.......................................................................Jayden Longoria McLean.............................................................................. Ben Crockett Monterey.......................................................................... Camden Grant Nazareth.................................................................... Nathaneal VanDjik New Deal............................................................................ Dylan Jerden Palo Duro.................................................................................. Kaje Lee Palo Duro...................................................................... Jelani Mohamed Plainview........................................................................... Ryan Jackson Randall.................................................................................. Dylan Gutz Shallowater........................................................................ Jalen Brattain Shamrock.......................................................................... Shae Jernigan Smyer...............................................................................Ethan Ramirez Spearman............................................................................ Peyton Black Spearman............................................................................. Levi Garnett Springlake-Earth..............................................................Diego Sanchez Stratford............................................................................Iuden Romero Sundown..................................................................................Gus Davis Sundown............................................................................... Brice Legan Tascosa.............................................................................Isaiah Johnson Tascosa............................................................................. Donnie Sutton Trinity Christian................................................................ Tru Buchanan Trinity Christian................................................................Ethan Duncan Vega................................................................................ Austin Calhoun Vega............................................................................... Carson Kirkland Vega.............................................................................Bryson Schroeder Wellington.......................................................................... Jaden Combs Wellington........................................................................ John Holcomb West Texas High........................................................... Jonah Villanueva Wheeler.............................................................................. Brady Bailey Girls Amarillo High..................................................................... Zayla Tinner Amarillo High............................................................Ansleigh Westlake Bushland..................................................................... Makenna Morgan Canyon............................................................................Chloe Callahan Canyon................................................................................ Carter Cluck Canyon.........................................................................Kenadee Winfrey Caprock........................................................................... Tyanna Badillo Clarendon....................................................................... Mattee Johnson Follett......................................................................... Kennedy Laubhan Frenship............................................................................. Maci Maddox Gruver............................................................................. Camryn Armes 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Gruver..............................................................................Bailey Maupin Gruver............................................................................Andrea Salgado Happy................................................................................Kenli Johnson Hereford............................................................................. Taytum Stow Idalou..............................................................................Taylor Houston Idalou..............................................................................Shaylee Stovall McLean.............................................................................. Caden Carter Monterey......................................................................Maddie Stephens Monterey..............................................................................Mia Trevino Nazareth....................................................................... Cambrie Heiman Nazareth.......................................................................... Emma Kleman Nazareth....................................................................... April Schmucker Palo Duro............................................................................ Aleea Miller Palo Duro.......................................................................... Shonda Stiger Panhandle............................................................................Mason Jones Plainview........................................................................... Kylie Bennett Randall...............................................................................Cassidy Beck Ropes........................................................................... Maggie Anderson Ropes.................................................................................Megan Moore Shallowater......................................................................... Bree Brattain Shallowater........................................................................... Tynli Harris Shallowater....................................................................Taylor Moravcik Shamrock....................................................................... Kynnan Shields Slaton...............................................................................Kamryn Gibbs Springlake-Earth........................................................Sayler Beerwinkle Stratford..............................................................................Janeht Bravo Sundown...........................................................................Geneva Cortez Tascosa............................................................................ Aubry Johnson Tascosa.................................................................................. Jada Miller Trinity Christian............................................................Adlee Blacklock Trinity Christian.........................................................Lauren Catherman Vega.......................................................................................Anita Knoll Vega...................................................................................... Lara Mason Wellington........................................................................ Marlee Brown Wellington................................................................... Kaylee Jo Neeley White Deer....................................................................... Emily Bradley Whiteface.........................................................................Holli Scoggins Whiteface...........................................................................Audrey Ayers

Special Features

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2019-2020 Cover Photos

Front row: Jordan Upton, Hedley • Ansleigh Westlake, Amarillo High • Andrea Salgado, Gruver • Camryn Armes, Gruver • Janeht Bravo, Stratford • Iuden Romero, Stratford (not shown) 2nd row: Brendan Hausen, Amarillo High • Damonze Woods, Amarillo High • Zayla Tinner, Amarillo High • Jalin Conyers, Gruver • Carter Armes, Gruver • Bailey Maupin, Gruver • Mason Jones, Panhandle

Front row: Cassidy Beck, Randall • Kennedy Laubhan, Follett • Jada Miller, Tascosa • Emily Bradley, White Deer • Aiden Venzor, Dumas • Zach Barsalou, Dalhart (not shown) 2nd row: Dylan Gutz, Randall • Tyanna Badillo, Caprock • Isaiah Johnson, Tascosa • Aubry Johnson, Tascosa • Donnie Sutton, Tascosa • Jonah Villanueva, West Texas High • Hunter Nicholas, Highland Park

Front row: Brady Bailey, Wheeler • Lashonda Stiger, Palo Duro • Aleea Miller, Palo Duro • Jake Orcutt, Bushland • Makenna Morgan, Bushland • Shae Jernigan, Shamrock 2nd row: Kaje Lee, Palo Duro • Jelani Mohamed, Palo Duro • Chloe Callahan, Canyon • Kenadee Winfrey, Canyon • Jarrad Gomez, Canyon • Carter Cluck, Canyon • Kynnan Shields, Shamrock

Front row: Mattee Johnson, Clarendon • Taytum Stow, Hereford • Lara Mason, Vega • Anita Knoll, Vega • Kenli Johnson, Happy (not shown) 2nd row: Levi Garnett, Spearman • Peyton Black, Spearman • Caden Carter, McLean • Ben Crockett, McLean • Bryson Schroeder, Vega • Austin Calhoun, Vega • Carson Kirkland, Vega

4

Special Features

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

2019-2020 Cover Photos

Front row: Kaylee Jo Neeley, Wellington • Marlee Brown, Wellington • Sayler Beerwinkle, Springlake-Earth • Maggie Anderson, Ropes • Mia Trevino, Monterey 2nd row: Jaden Combs, Wellington • John Holcomb, Wellington • Diego Sanchez, Springlake-Earth • Megan Moore, Ropes • Camden Grant, Monterey • Maddi Stephens, Monterey

Front row: Geneva Cortez, Sundown • Emma Kleman, Nazareth • April Schmucker, Nazareth • Cambrie Heiman, Nazareth • Maci Maddox, Frenship 2nd row: Brice Legan, Sundown • Gus Davis, Sundown • Ethan Ramirez, Smyer • Nathaneal VanDjik, Nazareth • Jayden Longoria, Littlefield • Noble Robinson, Frenship

Front row: Holli Scoggins, Whiteface • Kamryn Gibbs, Slaton • Tynli Harris, Shallowater • Bree Brattain, Shallowater • Sagen Gonzales, Abernathy 2nd row: Audrey Ayers, Whiteface • D’Aequan Tillman, Coronado • Jalen Brattain, Shallowater • Taylor Moravcik, Shallowater • Miles Keith, Abernathy • Bryson Daily, Abernathy

Front row: Landon Clark, Crosbyton • Kylie Bennett, Plainview • Shaylee Stovall, Idalou • Lauren Catherman, Trinity Christian • Ethan Duncan, Trinity Christian 2nd row: Maurice Carr, Crosbyton • Ryan Jackson, Plainview • Taylor Houston, Idalou • Adlee Blacklock, Trinity Christian • Dylan Jerden, New Deal • Tru Buchanan, Trinity Christian

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Special Features

5

Repeat state champions

AHS title great, but different By DAVE WOHLFARTH The Lady Sandies played the entire 2018-19 season as a marked team. As defending Class 5A state champions, they weathered the best efforts their opponents could muster. “Our program has had a lot of success the past few years, and we had a lot of teams coming at us,” AHS Coach Jeff Williams said. “We always got people’s best shot.” Indeed, the Lady Sandies have had a lot of success recently. In the past four years, they’ve won 146 of 159 games and backto-back state championships. Two standout Lady Sandies agreed about last season’s pressure. “There was a big target on our backs all season,” then-senior Ashlyn Milton said. “It was difficult, but we take pride in playing under pressure.” Then-junior Zayla Tinner echoed her teammate. “Yes, there was pressure because we were No. 1, so that was a big deal to show people that last year’s state championship wasn’t an accident,” she said. “We did that real well.” All that pressure of trying to repeat as state titlists, plus playing tough games on the road, made the Lady Sandies better, according to Williams. And, of course, they did repeat, knocking out Frisco Liberty 47-42 in the championship bout March 2 in San Antonio’s Alamodome. The repeat titles came 25 years after the Lady Sandies captured back-to-back 5A crowns in 1993 and ’94. The Alamodome presented an interesting challenge for shooters because there was no wall behind the baskets. But it didn’t bother Milton, the game’s high scorer with 16 points. “It was difficult to shoot on that court because it was wide open. All you could see was the stands, and you feel small. There was no depth perception, so when you’re shooting, you have to get used to it,” she said. “I’ve been here before, so that really helped.” She was an easy choice as the championship game’s MVP – for the second straight year – mainly because of what her coach called a “Milton Minute.” AHS trailed 36-32 with 5:07 left in the fourth quarter when Milton made her move. In the next 28 seconds, she stole the ball three times and scored six points to put AHS ahead to stay at 3836 with 4:39 remaining. That also triggered a 13-0 Lady Sandie spurt. Milton scored 11 points in that fourth quarter. Williams put it succinctly: “It was incredible.” Right before the “Milton Minute,” the Lady Sandies were in a timeout huddle. “I told the team that I wasn’t losing my last game,” Milton said. “We’re not losing our last game.” Later, after Liberty cut the deficit to three points, Milton put the finishing touches on the title by converting two free throws with 15 seconds left. The Lady Sandies had played Liberty early in the season, capturing a 59-53 overtime victory in the Frisco Tournament in November. But the Lady Redhawks presented some unique challenges. “They run a ‘chin’ offense, which lends itself to a lot of 6

Special Features

Amarillo High’s state championship victory March 2 was its second in a row and its second over Frisco Liberty in the 2018-19 season. The first win was by a 59-53 margin in overtime in the Frisco Tournament.

screens,” Williams said. “They force you to help, and they’ve got good shooters everywhere.” However, the Lady Sandies had some good shooters, too, particularly Milton and Tatym Barnes, who came off the bench to score eight points. AHS made five 3-pointers, including two apiece by Milton and Barnes. Tinner also contributed eight points, but more important, some key defensive plays in the championship game. In the state semifinals, the 5-10 guard/forward/post had popped in 23 points in the Lady Sandies’ 64-53 conquest of Fort Bend Hightower. All-Round Ability Earlier in the season, Tinner turned in a 34-point performance. She also had games of 26, 25 and 22 points. But she didn’t consider any of those games her best. “I’m not excited about scoring,” she said. “No, my best game was when I had deflections and things like that,” she said, adding that taking charges, dishing out assists and grabbing rebounds often mean more than points scored. In the Lady Sandies’ 67-41 win over Round Rock Nov. 30 in the San Antonio Tournament semifinals, Tinner rolled her ankle early in the game but came back to do all that ball hawking. She also chipped in with 19 points behind Milton’s season-high 33. Tinner, who is being heavily recruited by Division I college coaches, showed her all-round prowess by leading AHS in scoring (18.2 points per game), rebounds (5.6 per game) and assists (2.9 per game). Tinner may downplay her point production, but she said she (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Amarillo High junior Zayla Tinner fights off two Fort Worth Hightower defenders on her way to the basket in the 2019 state semifinals. The Sandies defeated Hightower 64-53. (Photo by Ronald Cortes) (Continued from previous page)

felt shooting was her biggest improvement last season. “After practices, Coach (Trent) Lankford worked with me a lot on my shooting,” she said. “We worked on being more of a guard, because that’s what most colleges are looking for me to play. We worked on 3-point shooting. “I was very successful on my 3-point shots.” Joining Tinner in the starting five were 5-10 senior forward Milton (10.8 ppg, 4 rpg, 1.9 apg), 5-10 senior guard/forward Brooke Urban (7.5 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 1.3 apg), 5-6 senior guard/forward Madison Stokes (7.7 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 2.2 apg) and 5-7 junior guard/ forward Ansleigh Westlake (4.2 ppg, 1.6 rpg, 1.4 apg). “It was our versatility,” Milton said in assessing her team’s strength. “Every person had a role. We needed everyone to do that in order to win games. We didn’t rely on just one person.” The top sub was 5-5 senior guard/forward Barnes (4.7 ppg, 2 rpg, 1.4 apg). Another senior, Savanna Darnell, was a key contributor until she tore up a knee at the end of the 68-66 regional semifinal win over The Colony. Darnell made a brief return in the state semifinal game. So did senior Kae’la Tipton, who may have been a starter had she not suffered a knee injury the previous July. Tipton basically missed the whole season. Six seniors, including three starters, were on the AHS 201819 roster. Their college choices

are: Milton, Trinity; Barnes, Howard; Tipton, Clarendon (all plan to play basketball); Urban, West Texas A&M (where she’ll be a high jumper in track); Stokes, Angelo State (soccer); and Darnell, University of Texas. “We had four sophomore kids play a lot, so depth was still a strength,” Williams said. Those sophs were Gracie Bentley, Rachael Haase, Aubrie Rankin and Abby Rodriguez. Depth is key in Williams’ coaching philosophy because his Lady Sandies usually press opponents from start to finish, from baseline to the front court. He relies on his players’ defensive toughness. Williams made one defensive adjustment in his press. He took Tinner off the ball (the player inbounding the ball) and moved Urban to that spot. “She’s 5-10, big and athletic,” he said. The smothering defense may have resembled the Lady Sandies’ “D” from the previous season, but the results were different. In 2017-18, AHS won 40 games and lost only two. In 201819, the Lady Sandies stood 4-3 by mid-November. They wound up 37-4 with a lot of close calls. Of course, the end result was the same: a state championship. “These were two totally different teams,” Williams said. “Last year was smooth sailing with very few bumps. This year we had a lot of challenges.” The first challenges came in the Frisco tourney, when the Lady Sandies lost to Mansfield Timberview and Cedar Hill on the same day. Three days later, playing at home, they were spanked by Class 6A Frenship 74-68, their third straight loss. That game was the turning point for Tinner. “I said, ‘We’re changing things up,’” she said. “I never wanted to lose another game. It was time to turn it around.” Amarillo High reeled off 14 consecutive wins, including Coach Williams’ 500th career coaching victory. That came in the San Antonio Tournament, which the Lady Sandies won. Playing in the tough Mansfield invitational in late December, they suffered their fourth loss, 58-54 to Houston Cypress Creek, a Class 6A team that finished the season 34-6, losing in the regional semifinals. (Continued on next page)

The Lady Sandies take possession of a Class 5A state championship trophy for the second consecutive year after defeating Frisco Liberty 47-42 at the Alamodome March 2. (Photo by Ronald Cortes) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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Jubilation was the emotion for the Amarillo High Lady Sandies after the final buzzer in their strongly contested state championship win over Frisco Liberty March 2. (Photo by Ronald Cortes) (Continued from previous page)

Won Last 19 Games The Lady Sandies would never lose again, winning their last 19 games. They finished the Mansfield event by beating Austin Westlake 60-44, then nipping arch-rival Canyon 47-44 in overtime in the fifth-place game. AHS raced through 16 District 3-5A games unbeaten, but there was one important asterisk: the one the Lady Sandies seemed destined to lose. Playing at Lubbock Monterey on Jan. 29, they fell behind by 27 points entering the fourth quarter. “We knew we could come back,” Milton said. “We believed in it as a whole team.” Tinner concurred. “Our coaches set us up for that – to never give up no matter how much you’re down,” she said.

What was going through the coach’s mind? “I was just hoping we could make a run, show some toughness,” Williams said. “We played 12 minutes of beautiful basketball. We turned them over a lot. We made nine 3s.” The Lady Sandies outscored Monterey 37-6 in that final quarter and claimed an amazing 61-57 victory. Tinner had 34 points, including 19 in the second half, and Barnes contributed 14, all in the second half. The ability to come back from sizable deficits – Amarillo High had scored 16 straight points to erase an early disadvantage against Palo Duro the previous week – served the Lady Sandies well in the playoffs. In the regional semifinals, they trailed The Colony by as many as 17 points in the first half but rallied to cut the gap to 35-31 at the half. The second half was nip and tuck, and the score was tied 66-66 with 30 seconds left. Tinner missed a shot, but Urban grabbed the rebound. She was right under the basket but managed to spin in the winning basket with two seconds left. “We practice that every day,” Williams said. The drill, featuring the ability to score from under the hoop with either hand, is called the Mikan Drill, named after former Minneapolis Laker big man George Mikan. When AHS trailed early, Williams told his troops, “‘We’ve been here before. You just can’t trade baskets. You’ve got to score and get some stops and chip away.’ These kids buy in to our defense.” The 68-66 win over The Colony moved AHS, ranked No. 2 in the state, into the regional finals against No. 1 Mansfield Timberview. The Lady Wolves entered the game with a sparkling 38-1 record and a 29-game winning streak. “Nobody gave us much of a chance, but we knew we could play with those guys,” Williams said. The Lady Sandies were quite familiar with Timberview, having beaten the Lady Wolves 59-54 in the 2018 state finals but then losing to them 57-48 back in November. The Lady Sandies sank 11 of 14 free throws in the final quarter. Milton made three of them in the final 1:08 to nail down the 47-45 win. Tinner, who also made a late free throw, scored 18 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. She was named the regional MVP. “That win made me very proud,” Williams said. The victory, which propelled AHS into the state tournament, was the Lady Sandies’ fourth of the season by three points or fewer. “We were thrown some curve balls, but we kept plugging along,” Williams said. “It was a grind, and we faced some breaking points. But we have some tough-minded kids.” Some folks might consider winning a repeat state championship as sort of a rite of passage. Williams doesn’t. “The truth is, you’ve really done something,” he said. “There’s nothing easy about it.”

Zayla Tinner rises to the basket in Amarillo High’s 2019 state semifinal victory over Fort Bend Hightower in San Antonio. (Photo by Ronald Cortes)

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From September to March, the Nazareth Swiftettes were dedicated to winning a third straight Class 1A state championship. At left, they participate in a prepractice ritual in their gym after school started in the fall. At right, they pose at the Alamodome in San Antonio with yet another state title trophy. (Photos by Mike Haynes and Cindy Huseman)

Title No. 23

Nazareth wins in the end again By MIKE HAYNES When it comes to motivation, Nazareth Swiftettes Coach Eric Schilling has a different challenge than other basketball coaches. The ultimate goal for most Texas high school programs is to win state at the Alamodome in San Antonio. But what do you do when your girls have done that twice in a row, four of the past five years and 22 all-time since 1977? Could complacency come into play for the Swiftettes even in a community whose basketball tradition is well-known throughout the land? Not for Nazareth, which again brought the Class 1A girls championship to the town of about 300 people in 2019 – three in a row, five of the past six and 23 all-time. No one was surprised, and according to Schilling, hoisting that trophy in the air just increases the desire for next time. “There’s a sense of satisfaction right after the game and maybe for a few weeks after, but if anything, I feel like it kind of sparks even more motivation for them,” he said. “Especially when it’s been multiple, you get to the point where you want to experience that all over again. “I guess there aren’t any girls now that were on the team that lost in 2016, but they’re old enough to remember it, and I remind them of it as well. If there’s anything they can do about it, they don’t want to be a part of the team that loses the next one. “Even though that’s inevitable, that is going to happen, or not even get there, but they’re going to do everything they can to at least put themselves in a position to win.” Not many teams have to look back three years to find a time when they fell short of their goal – for Nazareth, a loss to Lipan in the state title game. But the expectation to win is bred into the players at Nazareth – and into the coach, who also won two state championships playing for the Swifts in 2002 and 2003 and completed his eighth season as head coach in 2019. Three All-Tournament at State The 2018-19 edition of Swiftettes completed their mission with a 54-33 win over Dodd City March 2 in the state finals. They had defeated Dodd City in the finals the previous two years – 56-43 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

in 2018 and 48-42 in 2017. Three Nazareth standouts – 6-0 senior guard Blakely Gerber, 5-9 senior forward Hallie Kleman and 5-11 junior forward Cambrie Heiman – were named to the 2019 Texas Association of Basketball Coaches all-tournament team. Gerber was the tourney’s Most Valuable Player. Although Schilling had good things to say about all his players, especially their defensive skills, he knows the outside accolades that Gerber and Heiman received were deserved. “Usually when you have a player that gets MVP awards, the same one gets it every time,” he said. “But between those two, they kind of shared those. “Cambrie was the overall district MVP, and then Blakely was the state tournament MVP. And looking at the state awards, Blakely was named the TABC 1A Player of the Year, and Cambrie was named the Texas Six-Man Coaches Association 1A Player of the Year. And I just thought that was so unique. “You don’t see that where you’ve got two players that share awards like that, where it could just go to either of them. I think it’d be pretty cool for them to share them, to be co-players of the year, but it was neat to see that, and to have a team with players of that caliber was definitely special. I don’t know if I’ll ever coach a team that has two players like that who were MVP-worthy as much as those two were.” The Swiftettes’ road to San Antonio last season began as usual with a talent-heavy slate of opponents. “They played an extremely tough schedule,” Schilling said. “Partly to prepare us for a playoff run, but at the same time, I knew the quality of players we had, and I wanted to challenge them as much as we could.” They opened at home against Class 5A Amarillo High, also a defending state champion, losing 49-37 to a team that went on to repeat at state and included one of Texas’ best players, Zayla Tinner. They visited Class 4A Canyon, which has the second-most state titles at 19, and lost 54-27. “Obviously we know what Canyon’s (Continued on next page)

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Swiftette wins, including victories over larger schools such as Hereford, Brownfield, Stephenville and TAPPS Class 4A state champion Trinity Christian.

Swiftette Blakely Gerber handles the ball against Hermleigh in the state semifinal game Feb. 28 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. Gerber was the MVP of the state tournament as Nazareth won its third consecutive title and fifth in six years. Gerber now is a freshman on the Wayland Flying Queens roster, joining former Swiftette and fellow 6-footer Deborah VanDijk, a Wayland senior. (Photo by Cindy Huseman) (Continued from previous page)

all about,” Schilling said. The Swiftettes lost to Panhandle twice, 42-28 and 33-25. The Pantherettes also are one of the state’s top programs, having won the Class 2A title in 2017 and going to the state semifinals in 2019. Class 6A Tascosa stopped Nazareth 47-38 as the Lady Rebels went on to a 29-8 season, and Class 3A Wall, which finished 32-2, edged the Swiftettes 33-28. “Tascosa was a good game for us,” Schilling said. “We lost Blakely Gerber about two or three minutes into it. She does so much for us. We just played so well without her. Some of the girls that had to step in learned some things as far as their roles. It was a good game for us, figuring out our identity at that point in the season.” “We’ve played a tough schedule in the past, and we’d like to win one of those games. But they were all good for us, we gained a lot of experience, and I think some of them were even winnable games for us. But the girls embraced those challenges so much, and I felt like every time we stepped on the floor, we had a chance to beat somebody like that, just because of the confidence they had and the abilities they had to beat good teams.” The losses totaled six, but they were overshadowed by 32 10

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Whataburger Tournament One of the season’s highlights was the Whataburger Tournament in Fort Worth. “That tournament, you can go there and not even win a game and still play really well,” Schilling said. “That’s the main thing we want. “Going in, I’m always looking at the bracket and thinking, ‘If we can just win two games, that would be really good.’ And last year, we made our way to the championship. We beat Jim Ned in the semifinals, which beat us the year before in the first round. Our defense just stepped up and played so well. “It was low-scoring (33-26). It’s two good defenses going against each other. That was a fun game to win.” In the Whataburger finals, Nazareth faced Wall, another top program then coached by Tate Lombard, son of Canyon’s legendary Coach Joe Lombard. “I definitely knew I was in a Lombard game because the score was so low,” Schilling said. “We were up for the majority of the game, and they hit some shots at the end, and we ended up losing 33-28. “But man, those are like a chess match, doing what we can to take away their biggest threats and controlling the ball a little bit, because if you make mistakes, they’re going to make you pay for it.” Nazareth breezed through District 3-1A at 12-0, averaging 78.9 points to its opponents’ 13.5. The margin would have been worse if not for Happy scoring 33 and 44 points in their two shots at the Swiftettes. The area game and regional quarterfinals weren’t much more competitive as Nazareth dispatched Claude 58-21 and Follett 69-21. Then came the regional semis and finals at South Plains College, and Schilling agreed that those two games were tougher than the two in San Antonio. “For sure, Ropes and McLean. Those are two teams we’re very familiar with,” he said. “Ropes had everybody back, and it was a team you heard about all year.” Ropes had fallen to the Swiftettes 40-31 the year before. Although this time Nazareth prevailed 66-35 in the regional semifinals, Schilling said, “That’s not anywhere indicative of what the game was like. “We had a stretch where things were going our way, and our defense was playing so well and they weren’t hitting their shots and we were able to pull away, but I’m not going to sit here and say we were 30 points better than them. “We were that day, but I’ve got a lot of respect for them and what they do. We’re probably more evenly matched than what that game showed.” The Lady Eagles finished with a 33-3 record. In the regional finals, Nazareth met McLean, “another team we’ve very familiar with,” Schilling said. “I think we’ve probably played them the last four or five years in the playoffs.” The Lady Tigers, who wound up 28-6 for the season, gave the Swiftettes their closest game in the playoffs, falling 42-33. “Coming off that Ropes game, I was kind of worried about us being flat, but we weren’t,” Schilling said. “People may think that just because it was closer than what people were thinking, but I didn’t think we were flat. I thought we played really well. (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

They did some good things, and fortunately we were able to hold them off at the end.” Defense is a Nazareth hallmark, and Schilling said one example was 5-7 junior guard April Schmucker’s work on McLean’s leading scorer. “In the McLean game I started out with Hallie Kleman on Hope Moon, and Hope hits the big three, and she hits some big shots early in the game,” he said. “I put April on her, and she didn’t score on April the rest of the game. She ended up scoring later, but it wasn’t on April. “Our last three games, McLean and Hermleigh and Dodd City, we always put April on their best player, and she didn’t give up a single point, and that’s just crazy. “If you’ve got a defensive player like that and good defenders around them, it just makes it so tough for anybody to get good looks on you and then to be able to hit those shots. “We haven’t faced two games at the regional tournament like that in a while – two teams like that to push us. It was neat to see the girls handle that the way they did and then to carry that momentum into San Antonio and do what they had to do to finish the job.” No Loss of Confidence The Swiftettes, playing almost like the Alamodome was their home court, defeated Hermleigh 48-17. Hermleigh had come into the state semis with a 30-5 record. Then Nazareth earned that 23rd state trophy with its 19-point win over a familiar Dodd City team. The Lady Hornets, who finished with a 34-4 mark, trailed only 20-16 at halftime. But Nazareth outscored them 16-7 in the third quarter and 18-10 in the fourth for the 54-33 win. Three girls did most of the scoring for the Swiftettes. Gerber

Hallie Kleman, then a Nazareth senior, guards a Hermleigh player in the 2019 state semifinals at the Alamodome in San Antonio. The Swiftettes defeated Hermleigh and then Dodd City for the Class 1A state championship as Kleman was named to the state all-tournament team. (Photo by Cindy Huseman)

had 18 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists; Kleman had 15 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists; and Heiman had 14 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists along with 3 blocks. Also contributing were 5-2 senior guard Lexis Nieves, 5-6 senior guard Emily Dyer, 5-10 junior forward Amy Schilderink, 5-7 sophomore guard Emma Kleman, 6-0 sophomore forward Merry Gerber, 5-8 freshman forward Addie Dyer and 5-4 freshman guard Makenzy Corrales. And assistant coach Kelsi Pittillo was a key part of the drive to the championship. Many factors come together to fuel Nazareth’s success, including the program’s long tradition, the year-round hard work, dedicated players and committed coaches. Schilling believes that early-season experience against good teams also helps. “Some of those games were not that close, but we got so much better from that,” he said. “The girls may have wanted to get down on themselves at times like that, but they never did. They never lost any confidence as far as doing what we needed to do to win a state championship.” The next time Charley Pride sings, “Is anybody going to San Antone?,” it’s a good bet the answer will be Nazareth.

Nazareth High School houses scores of trophies, more from basketball than any other sport. This large trophy case isn’t the only one full of gold basketballs, some gold footballs and more girls basketball state championship trophies than any other school in Texas. (Photo by Mike Haynes) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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Lady Lions’ 9th

Trinity takes TAPPS title By DAVE WOHLFARTH Trinity Christian Coach Nick Catherman and daughter Lauren Catherman had devised a house rule that worked just fine. Well, except for Mom. Lauren, a 5-8 point guard, was instrumental in the Lady Lions’ march to the TAPPS 4A state championship last spring. The harddriving junior averaged 16.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 5 steals in earning about practically every honor imaginable. But Lauren and her dad, an assistant at the time, had encountered a problem during her freshman season: too much basketball talk at home. So they implemented a rule. The coach couldn’t question the daughter on basketball issues once they were off the court. The daughter could talk basketball with Dad if she desired. “It was just kind of mutual, because after my freshman year, we were just talking about basketball and nothing else,” Lauren said. She said her dad followed the rule, and she didn’t bring up basketball very often. “Sometimes I would leave it alone because it was just too much,” she said, “and I would hear it the next day on the court. When I get back on the court, it’s free. He’s allowed to say whatever he wants.” Both dad and daughter stuck to the rule. But there was a hitch. “We did. That’s not the problem,” Coach Catherman said. “My wife is the problem. She’s Pandora’s Box, yeah. So when we get home, we don’t talk about it, but my wife, she loves to talk about it. She brings it up, so therefore we have to discuss it with her.” Betty Catherman is not part of the agreement. She made that clear from the get-go, according to her husband. “She loves to talk basketball and how Lauren played,” Nick said. “And why we chose to do this or that. She’s very inquisitive. She’s a Monday morning coach.” Lauren Catherman and her dad have a long-standing basketball relationship. She began shooting hoops when she was 7. “I’ve always grown up in a gym because he’s always been a coach,” she said. “I’ve always been that little daughter that’s been in a gym trying to play with older people.” Her first game was as a Little Dribbler as a third-grader at Roosevelt Elementary School in Lubbock. With her dad’s help, her game progressed to the point where she was the district MVP, first-team all-district, first-team all-state, state alltournament team, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal Lonestar Lauren Catherman, then a junior, brings the ball downcourt and looks for a pass in the 2019 TAPPS Class 4A state championship win over Houston Lutheran North. (Photo courtesy Trinity Christian School)

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The Trinity Christian Lady Lions celebrate the 2019 TAPPS Class 4A state championship after they defeated Houston Lutheran North 72-34 in the title game at Robinson, near Waco. (Photo courtesy Trinity Christian School)

basketball player of the year, Lonestar female athlete of the year and NCSA All-American. Lauren also plays volleyball and tennis and runs track for Trinity Christian. Next year she’ll concentrate on basketball as she has signed to play for St. Edward’s, a Division II school in Austin. “A Great Senior Group” Lauren Catherman was not the only shining star for the Lady Lions. She wasn’t even the team’s leading scorer. That was 5-9 guard Adlee Blacklock, who pumped in 17.5 points a game as a freshman. She also grabbed 6.2 rebounds a game and dished out 2.5 assists a game. Blacklock already is being recruited by some high-profile Division I women’s programs. She was the district’s offensive player of the year, first-team all-district, first-team all-state, state all-tournament team and NCSA All-American. Obviously, Lauren Catherman and Blacklock were Trinity Christian’s one-two punch, but what made the team click was the leadership of three seniors. “We had a great senior group. They bonded the team like family,” Coach Catherman said. “I think you can take that in combination with the basketball talent we had in Lauren Catherman and Adlee Blacklock, two of the best basketball players on this side of Texas right now. That just made for a winning combination.” The seniors were Abigail “Abby” Boehning, Brooke Rinehart and Caroline Bradley. Boehning, a 5-9 post, was first-team alldistrict, second-team all-state and on the state all-tourney team. Rinehart, a 5-7 guard, also was first-team all-district. Boehning and Rinehart were starters. Bradley didn’t play because of a knee injury. The trio provided ‘the best leadership in 18 years that I’ve coached,” Coach Catherman said. (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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He pointed out that Bradley was the school valedictorian. Boehning earned many academic scholarships to Texas Tech, and Rinehart received the same from Lubbock Christian University. “Every one of them is going to be successful in life,” Coach Catherman said. “They were just the most well-rounded leaders, and I say that in a way that each person recognized what each other’s weaknesses and strengths were off the court.” In Catherman’s first year as head coach, the Lady Lions were 15-21. In Year 2, they went 30-11 and brought home the school’s ninth girls state TAPPS championship. Catherman was an assistant under Coach Gregg Ammons when the Lady Lions won their last state crown in 2015. Catherman said the uptick in Year 2 was because the Lady Lions became more comfortable with his offense and defense. His full-court offense is triggered off a full-court defense. “We try to stay away from half-court sets,” he said. “Our motto is if you score in 10, we score in eight seconds. We like to get somewhere around 70 shots in a game. We seem to be pretty productive when we get in the 70s.” The Lady Lions averaged scoring 60 points a game. He called his defense an “amoeba man-to-man — we’re constantly moving, switching, much like Texas Tech . . .” He paused and smiled. “They stole it from us.”

Senior Abigail Boehning goes in for a shot during the 2018-19 season. Boehning was first-team all-district, second-team all-state and on the TAPPS all-state tournament team. (Photo courtesy Trinity Christian School) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

The Lady Lions held opponents to 46 per game. Turning Points Trinity Christian didn’t begin the season like a state championship-caliber team. The Lady Lions lost three of their first five games and three more in a row in midDecember. They entered the Lubbock Caprock Tournament with a 13-6 record. They won two games in the tourney but then were whipped by Frenship 60-32, their second loss to the Wolfforth school. Catherman said that tournament was the season’s turning point. Lauren Catherman was ill and not able to play against Frenship or in the next game. “The loss to Frenship Then-freshman Adlee Blacklock stung,” Nick Catherman said. lets loose a jump shot in Trinity “We crumbled but then came Christian’s state championship over Houston Lutheran back without our point guard victory North March 1 at Robinson. (Photo — our leader on the court — courtesy Trinity Christian School) and played a fantastic game against Denison. That was when they knew they could accomplish anything they wanted.” That 65-63 overtime win over a ranked Denison team seemed to put the Lady Lions on their way, although there were some more stumbles in January. Lauren Catherman chose a different tourney for a turning point. In late January, the Lady Lions traveled to Oklahoma City to participate in the Blue Gray Invitational. “Teams were telling us to ‘Go back to Texas’ and that kind of stuff,” she said. “I think that was the turning point for our team, because we were able to play the game with joy and not worry about anything else. I think that trip was the best trip we had.” Trinity Christian won two of three games in Oklahoma City. The Lady Lions later dropped games to three-time state Class 1A state champion Nazareth and to district foe Lubbock Christian for losses Nos. 10 and 11. That was it. Trinity Christian reeled off six straight wins, including four tournament victories. The closest call was a 6960 state semifinals win over Lubbock Christian, the Lady Lions’ third win in four meetings with LCHS. Trinity Christian clobbered Houston Lutheran North 72-34 in the TAPPS championship game at Robinson, near Waco. The state championship was not the ultimate goal for the Lady Lions, according to their coach. “We said we would not measure our success by a state championship. We were going to measure our success on how many opportunities we got and what we did with those opportunities,” Coach Catherman said. “State championship was not a goal. Still, for this year, it’s not a goal. It’s a byproduct.” Catherman has coached football, boys basketball and girls (Continued on next page)

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basketball at Trinity Christian, but he prefers girls hoops because of the relationships that are established. For instance, he said while it was magical to see his daughter celebrate a state title with her friends, he felt a lot of pride in guiding all the Lady Lions. “To be honest, there are several girls on the team who are daughters to me,” he said. “They were at my house more than they were at their own houses. A lot of them have grown up with Lauren, and me and my wife and family. Payton Dove, Jasmine Wadsworth, Abby Boehning, those are all my daughters. They’re just as close.” Those relationships with female athletes sometimes run the emotional gamut. Assistant coach Paige Buchanan was designated as the “cry coach.” “Yes, we have a cry coach,” Catherman said. “We don’t know why they’re crying; they don’t know why they’re crying. So we have a cry coach.” Is she used often? “Yes, yes, she handles those situations that have nothing to do with the game of basketball,” he said. “It has to do with the game of life.”

Senior Brooke Rinehart of Trinity Christian and a Houston Lutheran North player position for a rebound in the TAPPS Class 4A state championship game March 1 at Robinson. Rinehart was first-team all-district for the Lady Lions, who won their ninth state title. (Photo courtesy Trinity Christian School)

sUC CES S IS A TEAM EFFORT Team Cenveo Amarillo 109 South Fillmore St Amarillo, TX 79101 806.376.4347 www.cenveo.com

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to be prin�ng

In his second year as Trinity Christian head coach, Nick Catherman led the Lady Lions to a 30-11 record and their ninth TAPPS state championship. (Photo courtesy Trinity Christian School) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Lady Chaps win DII again

Second title ‘a joyful surprise’ By DAVE WOHLFARTH It was like night and day, but both ended the same way. Lubbock Christian’s Lady Chaps won the school’s first NCAA Division II championship in 2016. Last spring they captured their second national title. The contrast between the two championship runs is rather remarkable. The Lady Chaps were undefeated in 2015-16. They weren’t even pressed in most of their 35 games as they averaged 82.1 points compared with their opponents’ 54.3. They broke 100 four times. Their five-point victory in the national championship game was one of their closest of the season. They were expected to win, and they did. “That was the year that we were The Lubbock Christian University Lady Chaps celebrate in Columbus, Ohio, after defeating Southwestern long and swift and transitioned Oklahoma State University 95-85 in two overtimes for the 2019 NCAA Division II national championship. (Jay well. That team was just dominant. LePrete/NCAA Photos) There were not many close games,” State, a school just 4½ hours from Lubbock, 95-85 in double said Coach Steve Gomez, who directed both championship squads. overtime. “That year, it was just one of those where everything went right.” The first overtime had a wild finish. Everything didn’t go right for LCU last season. The Lady The Lady Chaps trailed by three points with 11 seconds left Chaps lost four of six games early in the season before righting but had the ball in SWOSU’s half. Olivia Robertson got a good the ship and finishing the year at 32-5. Their offensive (73 per 3-point opportunity off the inbounds pass but missed the shot. game) to defensive (52.8) averages weren’t that overwhelming. Teammate Allie Schulte grabbed the rebound. They needed a miraculous escape in the first overtime to secure “I was setting a screen for Liv (Robertson) to shoot the three, a double-overtime victory in the championship game. then just kinda stood there and watched it, which is not a good “Last year we were more of just a grind-it-out team, not overly thing to do,” Schulte said, “but I was just in the right place at mobile, but just had to really play together and use our heads a the right time.” lot,” Gomez said. “And a team that really went through a lot of Schulte heard Maddi Chitsey yell, “Allie,” and turned to see ups and downs and struggles.” Chitsey in the corner. Schulte fired the ball to Chitsey, who sank In some ways, he found the first championship somewhat a 3-pointer with 2 1/2 seconds remaining. That kept the Lady more rewarding. Chaps alive and sent the game into a second overtime. The Lady “The pressure of going in as the favorite, and being that way Chaps then bolted ahead and won by 10 against the deflated almost from early season on, carries with it a little bit of a higher Lady Bulldogs. strain and stress,” Gomez said. “Maybe that first one was more Schulte, a Nazareth graduate, scored 17 points in the game. almost of a relief.” Caitlyn Cunyus from Canyon contributed 10. Last year’s season wasn’t stress-free, but perhaps another s-word fits it best: surprising. College Championship Sweet “To be able to travel through the year, really from the start Both Schulte and Cunyus were on high school teams that won to the very final second of the last game, as maybe a surprise as three state championships. However, they agreed that winning a the underdog, as the unexpected winner, there’s some fun and college national championship was a little sweeter. there’s some joy in that, too,” Gomez said. “Maybe this one was “College is so much different because you literally live with more of a joyful surprise.” your team full-time and you invest more time into each other and The “joyful surprise” reached fruition on March 29 in the team,” Cunyus said. “Not to take anything away from those Columbus, Ohio, when LCU defeated Southwestern Oklahoma (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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high school championships, but I did enjoy the college route a little bit more just because you’re traveling across the country and just playing on a big stage.” Schulte said, “I was pretty close with my high school teams all four years, but this is like a whole new level. And in the back of my mind, I wanted to win a national championship, but you really never expect it to happen until it does.” Schulte was a sophomore and Cunyus a junior starter for the Lady Chaps. The Chitsey sisters — junior Maddi and senior Bobbi — and senior Robertson started most of LCU’s games. Robertson led the Lady Chaps in scoring in the championship game with 24 points. Maddi Chitsey had a double-double with 22 points and 13 rebounds. For the season, Robertson led the Lady Chaps in scoring at 14.4 ppg. Maddi Chitsey was next at 13.6. Schulte (10.4 ppg), Bobbi Chitsey (8.9) and Cunyus (6 ppg) contributed to a balanced attack. Robertson (6.3 per game) was the top rebounder with the Chitseys close behind. Schulte and Cunyus were tops in assists with about 3 per game apiece. Robertson and Maddi Chitsey were second-team All-South Region selections. Robertson and Bobbi Chitsey provided the senior leadership, which Gomez called “pretty instrumental to our success.” Juliana Robertson (Olivia Robertson’s sister), Maddi Turner, Emma Middleton and Ashton Duncan (daughter of LCU men’s coach Todd Duncan) were big contributors off the bench. The Lady Chaps had three sets of sisters — the Robertsons from Kerrville, the Chitseys from Wall and Caitlyn and Channing Cunyus from Canyon. Gomez likes having sisters on the team. “The sisters were obviously close to each other, but for a lot of them, their closest friends on the team weren’t necessarily their sister. It was a very integrated group as opposed to friendship by family member,” he said. “It was fun. Never at all was it an issue. And in each case, one of the sisters had a bigger role than the other. That’s not sibling

Allie Schulte of Lubbock Christian moves past Simon Fraser University defenders in a 70-64 home win over the Canadian school in December 2018. The Nazareth sophomore scored 17 points in the national championship win over Southwestern Oklahoma in March 2019. (LCU Media Relations photo)

rivalry, that’s sibling encouragement.” The only downside, Gomez noted lightheartedly, was that it limited the Lady Chaps’ fan support because six kids had only three sets of parents in the stands.

Turning Points Gomez said a trip to Washington state in mid-December triggered the turning point for the Lady Chaps. LCU had lost those four of six games and stood 7-4 when the team headed west. The Lady Chaps defeated Western Washington and Simon Fraser to ignite a 14-game winning streak. In fact, they lost only one more game the rest of the season, finishing the campaign with a 10-game flourish. “We played two good teams up in Washington, and we adjusted our starting lineup a little,” he said. “And that trip was not only fun for the team together, that was a good time for refocusing, just a re-uniting of the team.” Maddi Chitsey hadn’t been playing as well as expected, so Gomez had her come off the bench for a couple of games. “It was like a burr in her saddle; it sorta gave her a ‘I’ve got to do better,’ so that helped everybody become more accountable for playing well,” he explained. After the Christmas break, Maddi Chitsey regained her starting job. In the postseason run to the championship, the 6-2 forward Lubbock Christian sophomore Juliana Robertson, left, and sister Olivia Robertson, a senior, touch hands as they anticipate a free became a dominant force inside. throw during the Lady Chaps’ 84-53 win over Tarleton State in March 2019. (LCU Media Relations photo)

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And she knocked in the 3-pointer that kept LCU alive in that title game’s first overtime. Caitlyn Cunyus and Schulte thought the Christmas break was the turning point. “We had a lot of hard practices and had to just come together, because we weren’t coming together in those previous games,” Caitlyn Cunyus said. “So I think at Christmas, we had time off of school to really get some things straightened out.” Schulte echoed her teammate’s The Lubbock Christian Lady Chaps pose with their national championship team and individual trophies after defeating thoughts. Southwestern Oklahoma 95-85 in double overtime March 29 in Columbus, Ohio. LCU ended 35-game winning streaks in each “I guess we all just got mad that of its last two games. Drury had been 35-0 before the Lady Chaps upset the Lady Panthers 69-60. Southwestern lost its season we were not doing as good, and opener, then won 35 straight before the national title loss to LCU. (Jay LePrete/NCAA Photos) we weren’t coming together as a team,” she said. “We all just kinda made the decision to get together and set a completely different mindset, mentally.” When LCU overcame 29 turnovers by shooting 62.5 percent to upset No. 1 ranked Drury 69-60 in the semifinals, Schulte thought a national championship was in their grasp. “I think we all knew, or put it in our minds, that this is totally do-able. We could do it,” she said. “So I think throughout the whole (championship) game, I just kinda thought to myself that we were never going to lose this game.” Even when you were behind? “Even when we were behind,” she answered.

LCU senior Bobbi Chitsey dribbles downcourt at Rip Griffin Center last December during a victory over Simon Fraser, a school in Canada. Chitsey scored 10 points and pulled down 8 rebounds in the national title win over Southwestern Oklahoma. (LCU Media Relations photo) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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Buffs were on a mission from the get-go

National championship or bust By LANCE LAHNERT “National championship or bust.” Near the start of the 2018-19 West Texas A&M men’s basketball five-month-long grind of a season, senior All-America forward Ryan Quaid was asked how the Buffs would come up with a repeat performance from the magical Final Four ride from the year before. After all, WT never had reached that far in the playoffs and had graduated off the talented 32-4 team a massive amount of scoring and skilled players. The Buffs had to start out doing the impossible, replacing WT’s all-time leading scorer in four-year starting guard David Chavlovich. Gach Gach, Ryan Quaid, Eric Mosley and Brandon Hall celebrate with the NCAA Division II regional Toss in no longer having one of the championship trophy after West Texas A&M defeated St. Edward’s 89-70 March 19 to advance to the top 3-point shooters in the nation Elite Eight. (Photo by Mike Haynes) due to the graduation of Jordan Evans. And, of course, any great team has unsung players, and and now he stood tall – along with senior guard Gach Gach - in WT’s were the hustling glue-guys in guards Tommy Gove and a senior-leadership role. Rylan Gerber. Quaid didn’t back off from the question. Can the Buffs repeat The 6-foot, 8-inch Quaid was coming off three years of an Elite Eight performance? exceptional play for WT when his double-doubles had become “It’s national championship or bust for us,” said Quaid, commonplace, his deft play down low pretty much unstoppable, whose season would end with his name written all over the Buff record books, including all-time leading rebounder, all-time leader in games played and second behind Chavlovich on the all-time leading scorer list. “We got a taste of it. And we didn’t like how it all ended. So for us this year, I’ll say it. It’s national championship or bust.” West Texas fourth-year coach Tom Brown knew how special an Elite Eight appearance is in the Division II world. Making back-to-back trips to the D-II national tourney? Well, that’s a whole different world. In fact, it’s rarely accomplished and never in the history of WT hoops, which began D-II play in the mid-1980s. Yet, there in late March stood the 2018-19 Buffs in Evansville, Indiana, playing in the 2019 D-II national men’s basketball tournament quarterfinals, also known as the Elite Eight. How’d this happen?

Ryan Quaid shows his versatility. At left, he plays inside against New Mexico Highlands March 15 in a 109-95 win in the regional tournament. At right, he shoots outside against St. Edward’s in the regional final win March 19. (Left photo by Mike Haynes; right photo by Rik Anderson/WTAMU)

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“Let’s Go for Further” Wasn’t the Buffs guard play so depleted from the year before that incoming freshmen would have to handle those duties? Wouldn’t teams just double-team Quaid all day and every day, limit his touches, thus denying him the chance to put up big numbers and take over games? Brown said that looking back at the 2018-19 season, you can’t deny what senior leadership, the skills and ability to mesh quickly (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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with a veteran transfer guard and the surprisingly mature games of young players meant to the Buffs. A Buff team eventually becoming the third in school history reaching the Elite Eight. A Buff team setting a school record for wins in a season at 34 with just four losses. A Buff team playing fearlessly with a mindset from day one of “national championship or bust.” “I think it was a special year just the way things happened,” Brown said. “You lose the all-time leading scorer in David Chavlovich. And then Jordan Evans was one of the best shooters I’ve ever had. You also lose Tommy Gove and Rylan Gerber. That core group was the first four that went through our program, because that was our fourth year. So you are kind of thinking, ‘Maybe it’s time to rebuild a little bit and come back to reality.’ But Gach Gach, Ryan Quaid and the addition of Brandon Hall, those three seniors said, ‘No, no. Let’s go for further. Let’s improve on last year’s team.’” While the 2018-19 Buffs came up a game short of equaling the Brandon Hall drives against St. Edward’s in West Texas A&M’s 2017-18 effort, the 34 wins were two more than the previous year victory in the 2019 regional finals at First United Bank Center in and the most in school history, pushing WT’s two-year record to Canyon. (Photo by Mike Haynes) 66-8 (an eye-opening 89.1 winning percentage). Now, Brown didn’t snap his fingers and the Buffs suddenly are going to get after you.” were beating up teams like the previous year. A definite learning curve took place, as four games into the Unbeatable at Home season the Buffs owned an overtime win over Drury and a fiveWT rolled to the Lone Star Conference title with a 17-1 record, point road loss at Western Colorado University. became unbeatable at home, reeling off a 17-0 record in the First But with Quaid, Emporia State 1,000-point scorer and transfer United Bank Center (extending the home winning streak to 25 senior guard Brandon Hall and freshman in a row over two years) and won a schoolguard Qua Grant starting all 38 games the record record 19 games in a row heading Buffs played, while senior guard Gach Gach into the Elite Eight. started all but one game and freshman guard The icing on the season arrived when the Joel Murray all but four, WT established its Buffs hosted the South Central Regional roles and a starting lineup early that would tournament and disposed of a highly regarded prove to be the fuel for the remarkable season. St. Edward’s team 89-70 in the finals before Under Brown’s up-tempo style and 3,402 fans, earning the second consecutive commitment to shooting threes in the flow Elite Eight trip. of the offense (the Buffs attempted 1,128 The Buffs fell in the national quarterfinals 3-pointers and 1,275 2-pointers) producing to Southern Indiana 94-84 with freshman a scoring average of 84 points a game, WT Grant scoring a team-high 27 points and found its groove. tying Quaid for team-leading rebounding With freshmen Grant and Murray quickly honors with six. playing like upperclassmen and averaging Hall’s contributions were immense as he 14.9 and 11.7 points, respectively, the pair logged a team-high 1,173 minutes, averaged quickly meshed with the Buffs’ veterans, 12.3 points a game and quickly meshed with producing remarkable numbers with all five his teammates after being the man for three starters averaging double figures. years at Emporia State. “I was surprised by those two, yes,” Brown The gregarious Gach prevented defenses said. “Because it just doesn’t always happen from sagging on Quaid, making a team-high to see that kind of development. We saw Qua 88 3-pointers, and regularly was handed the in the summertime, and Coach (Quincy) toughest defensive assignment of the game. Henderson loved him. But there were other Quaid averaged a team-high 15.9 points players there as well. We were thrilled to and 7.6 rebounds while collecting a slew get him. We got JoJo (Joel Murray) late. of postseason honors, including Lone Star We didn’t see him all summer, but we had Conference player of the year, most career Gach Gach demonstrates his long-range watched a lot of game film on him. games ever played by a Buff at 140 and ability as the WT Buffs defeated St. Edward’s “What surprised me most about those 89-70 on March 19 to move on to the NCAA All-America status by the Basketball Times. guys is how hard they work and how they Division II Elite Eight for the second He currently is playing pro basketball in listen. They don’t have egos. They aren’t consecutive year. (Photo by Rik Anderson/ Germany with RASTA Vechta. prima donnas; they are lunch-pail guys who WTAMU) (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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“Those three seniors did so much for us,” Brown said. “You just don’t replace those kind of young men, and I’m thankful for what they did for this program on and off the court.” While Quaid’s prediction of a national championship fell a couple of games short, the message was sent early, and the Buffs delivered another remarkable season under Brown. “We did run into a little bit of a buzz saw in Southern Indiana,” Brown said. “But what was so special was being able to improve on our overall record, again, and breaking the record of 32 wins. Looking back, it was such a great combination of three seniors, two starting freshmen and a glue-guy with Eric Mosley. It was just a lot of fun. “That was a special season. From the outside people, I don’t think expectations were that high. But from our coaching staff and players, we always have high expectations.”was the fact that his first WT class reaped the rewards.

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Qua Grant goes to the basket at First United Bank Center in Canyon March 19 as the WT Buffs defeated St. Edward’s in the NCAA Division II regional final. (Photo by Rik Anderson/WTAMU)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

1948-1982 game-changers

Queens inducted into Naismith HOF By KEVIN LEWIS Something that was more than 70 years in the making culminated in Springfield, Massachusetts, on Sept. 6, 2019, when the Wayland Baptist Flying Queens were inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The program was inducted on the strength of its history, impact on the game and continued success over an extended period of time. The Hall of Fame officially inducted the program from the period 1948 to 1982, when the Queens were instrumental in changes made to the game of women’s basketball. From using community sponsors like the Harvest Queen Mill and Claude and Wilda Hutcherson in its early years Linda Pickens Price, right, president of the Flying Queens Foundation and a former Flying Queen, poses with to offering athletic scholarships for the Wayland jersey as the 1948-1982 Queens program was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019 in Springfield, Massachusetts. Also inducted were Vlade Divac, left, Teresa Weatherspoon, Sidney women and changing the game September Moncrief, Jack Sikma, Bobby Jones and Paul Westphal. (Naismith Hall of Fame photo) to the full-court, 5-on-5 with unlimited dribble version, the accomplished in a five-year span from 1953 to 1958. Queens were at the forefront of women’s basketball. The team’s history includes numerous All-Americans, 10 AAU Dozens of former Flying Queens and their families, plus other national titles, nine national runner-up finishes, nine consecutive representatives of Wayland and the Flying Queens including NWIT titles and success throughout the decades that has led to WBU President Dr. Bobby Hall and current head coach Alesha more than 1,600 wins – still more than any team in history. The Ellis, traveled to Springfield for the enshrinement as well as for program continues to be successful as the Queens set another team events leading up to and following the ceremony. record in 2019 with three athletes named NAIA All-Americans. “What a great day for Wayland,” Hall said. “If you have ever The Flying Queens’ rosters included exceptional players such played on, coached, administered, supported or otherwise been as three-time AAU All-American Patsy Neal, two-time FIBA connected with this remarkable program – the Wayland Flying World Championships gold medalist Katherine Washington, Queens – this is your day.” co-captain of the 1980 U.S. Olympic team and current Lubbock Ellis and Wayland Athletics Director Rick Cooper echoed Monterey head coach Jill Rankin Schneider and a total of 130 Hall’s excitement. All-Americans. “For an athletic program, the Naismith Hall of Fame is the The Flying Queens’ program has nine individuals – coaches zenith. It’s the top,” Cooper said. “It’s an honor for the program. Harley Redin, Dean Weese and Marsha Sharp (Queen Bees junior It’s an honor for the team. It’s an honor for the girls right now varsity team); team sponsor Claude Hutcherson; and players who are playing for the team.” Patsy Neal, Lometa Odom, Katherine Washington, Jill RankinEllis, who grew up in Plainview and played basketball at Texas Schneider and Carolyn Bush Roddy – who have been enshrined Tech University, said the Queens always have been an important in the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Tennessee, part of her basketball life. She said if not for the Queens program, with the 1953-1958 teams recognized as Trailblazers of the Game she never would have been able to accomplish what she has as in 2013. Also, former WBU Pioneer and storied Canyon High a player or a coach. School coach Joe Lombard was inducted in 2016. “To be part of a program that helped modernize the game The Flying Queens were presented for enshrinement in means a lot to me,” Ellis said. “They helped pave the way.” Springfield by Lusia Harris Stewart, a 1992 HOF inductee, The Flying Queens were named to the hall by a veterans and Nancy Lieberman, a 1996 HOF inductee, both pioneers direct-elect committee. The Queens have a storied program that of women’s basketball. Harris Stewart was an All-American at includes being the first college to offer women athletic scholarships Delta State in the 1970s, and Lieberman was an All-American decades before Title IX. The Queens also hold the record for the at Old Dominion, played professionally and has served in many still-standing longest winning streak in basketball at 131 games, (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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other roles in the sport. Linda Pickens Price, who played for the Flying Queens from 1966 to 1969 and is president of the Flying Queens Foundation, officially represented the Flying Queens at the Hall of Fame jacket presentation and other ceremonial functions. The induction means the Queens will forever be remembered as members of a Hall of Fame program – an honor not lost on former Flying Queen Cherri Rapp, who played from 1968 to 1972. “We appreciate being recognized as a leader in providing opportunities for women in sports for more than 70 years,” Rapp said. “We are so grateful to Coach Harley Redin, who was responsible for helping change the landscape of women’s basketball. I would like to say thank you to the Hall of Fame for this honor.” Wayland’s history now will be on full display alongside the likes of Lieberman, Sheryl Swoopes, Pat Head Summitt, Wilt Chamberlain, Meadowlark Lemon, the Harlem Globetrotters, John Wooden, Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan. “It’s where the giants of the game are honored,” Hall said.

Wayland Flying Queens Coach Alesha Ellis, left, former Flying Queen Cherri Rapp, Wayland President Dr. Bobby Hall, former Flying Queen Linda Pickens Price and former Wayland athletic director and Flying Queens historian Dr. Sylvia Nadler attended the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony for the 1948-1982 Queens in September 2019 in Springfield, Massachusetts. (Wayland Baptist University photo)

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2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

The 300 Club Movin’ in and movin’ out. That seemed to be this year’s theme for membership in The 300 Club. Four coaches joined the exclusive group. Four others either moved out of the Panhandle-Plains Basketball area or aren’t involved in hoops mentoring any more. So that leaves the membership at 26. That’s 26 active area coaches whose basketball teams have posted at least 300 victories. The newbies are new Ropes girls Coach Leland Bearden, who has 702 girls wins; fourth-year Adrian girls Coach RandyYelverton (479 girls wins); and longtime Ropes boys Coach Lane Jackson (434 boys wins). They stand fourth, 10th and 15th, respectively. Andy Copley of Follett, who had two state championship teams at Canadian, rejoins the club at No. 17 with 421 boys wins. The four who departed (and their positions last year) are: Kevin Richardson (6), Canadian girls, moved to Wall to take the girls job there; Ricky Guy (10), River Road girls, now is coaching golf at Canyon; Tim Webb (18), Wellington boys, is teaching and coaching in Hollis, Oklahoma. Leon Hagerman (23), Plainview boys, is teaching math at Shallowater. The leader of the pack is the legendary Joe Lombard of Canyon, who owns 1,348 combined victories. All but 61 of those Coach’s Name, Current School

Boys

1

Joe Lombard, Canyon girls

61-9

2

Chuck Darden, Shallowater girls

~

956-282

956-282

.772

3

Danny Wrenn, Plainview girls

~

750-251

750-251

.749

4

Leland Bearden, Ropes girls

702-215

702-215

.766 Sands, Smyer, Seminole

5

Kyle Bean, New Deal boys asst.

469-219

137-83

606-302

.667

6

Leslie Broadhurst, Randall boys

581-437

~

581-437

.571 Morton

7

Jeff Williams, Amarillo High girls

~

529-200

529-200

.726 Dumas

8

Jeff Evans, Palo Duro boys

~

528-181

.745 Lubbock Coronado, Abilene

9

A.J. Johnson, Palo Duro girls

528-181 ~

Girls

were achieved by his girls teams. Lombard coached boys for a few years at Nazareth before moving permanently to girls at Naz and later at Canyon. He is 392 victories ahead of No. 2 Chuck Darden, the Shallowater girls coach. And Lombard’s .911 winning percentage is far and away the best. Darden and No. 3 Danny Wrenn (Plainview girls) have coached only at their present schools. No. 6 Leslie Broadhurst of Randall is tops in boys-only victories at 581. Club members must be actively coaching basketball in the PPB area, although in three cases they have moved to assistants’ positions. Kyle Bean (No. 5 at 606 combined wins) is serving his second season as an assistant coach to his son Kyler Bean’s New Deal boys team. No. 16 Mike McCann (423 girls wins) has switched to the boys’ side and is working with junior high boys in Jackson’s program at Ropes. And No. 17 Copley is an assistant boys basketball coach at Follett, where he also is the head football coach and athletic director. Copley inadvertently was omitted in last year’s list. Only high school wins, not college victories, count. Information is based primarily on records coaches submitted on PPB questionnaires. There probably are other coaches who did not submit their records or don’t have an accurate account of their wins and losses. The list is arranged in order of total combined wins. (Chart and story by Dave Wohlfarth and Cathy Martindale) Combined Pct. Previous Schools

1,287-122 1,348-131

512-338

~

11 Chris Sumrall, Wellington girls

~

475-196

475-196

.708 Garden City, Clyde

12 Brian Legan, Sundown girls

~

457-257

457-257

.640 Seagraves, Abernathy, Spur

114-81

331-160

445-241

.649 Meridian, Lubbock Cooper

14 Randy Henderson, Vega girls

479-159

.602 San Antonio Lanier

10 Randy Yelverton, Adrian girls

13 Lance Horsford, Stratford girls

479-159

512-338

.911 Nazareth

.751 Groom, Fort Elliott, Caprock, Clarendon, Crane, Jacksonville, El Campo, Tyler

~

443-117

443-117

.791 Port Aransas, Salado, Martinsville, Plains, Canton

434-288 ~

~ 423-234

434-288 423-234

.601 Merkel, Savoy .644 Floydada, Olton, Lubbock Cooper

~

421-295

421-295

406-202

~

406-202

.588 Three Way, Dalhart, Dumas, McLean, Follett, Water Valley, Canadian .668 Crowell, Clyde, Brownfield, Breckenridge, Denver City, Pampa

19 Benny Lockhart, Sudan girls

~

394-195

394-195

.669 Merkel, Roby

20 Trent Hilliard, Frenship girls

~

358-189

358-189

.654 Wellington, Lubbock Cooper

21 Shannon Fisher, Gruver girls

~

354-193

354-193

.647 Roby, Snyder, Dalhart, Tulia

343-285

~

343-285

.546 Rule, Olney, Roby, Seminole

23 t Kurt Richardson, Spearman girls

~

334-116

334-116

.742 Panhandle, Abilene, Wylie

23 t Steve Rhodes, Brownfield boys

334-226

~

334-226

.596 Highland Park, Bushland

23 t Coby Beckner, Texline boys

334-205

~

334-205

.620 Texline, Moriarity, N.M., Kirkland Central, Glen Rose, Houston Westfield, Spring, Clayton, N.M.

26 Todd Bass, Crosbyton boys

330-310

~

330-310

.517 Olton, Stratford, Vega

15 Lane Jackson, Ropes boys 16 Mike McCann, Ropes boys Jr. High 17 Andy Copley, Follett asst. boys 18 Rob Ogle, Littlefield boys

22 Paul Page, Frenship boys

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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1970s Badgers recall basketball success By MIKE HAYNES For the first time, a group of Amarillo College basketball players from the era of Coach Bill McDonald got together this summer, and they hope to do it again. AC had a successful basketball program until it ended in the 1980s, and McDonald had winning teams in his six years from 1970 to 1976. Larry Kenon, the 6-9 All-American from Birmingham, Alabama, who went on to NCAA fame at Memphis State and ABA and NBA professional excellence, wasn’t the only quality Badger player during those years. “The guys that came from different states and different places loved it out here,” McDonald said. “They loved Amarillo; they really did. They were treated well, and we tried to recruit not only outstanding players but also outstanding people. That sure made the difference.” McDonald had coached at Weatherford Junior College before arriving at AC. He left in 1976 to become an insurance agent because he had seen that the coaching life wasn’t as stable as he would like for a family man. He has been in that career in

Amarillo ever since. McDonald and his wife, Nancy, have two daughters, Carol and Angela, and several grandchildren. Seventeen past players showed up for the June 8 group photo at Amarillo College, remarks by several of those attending and meals during the weekend. Teammates and many of their wives attended, and only seven of those former players live in Amarillo or the area. Kenon lives in San Antonio. “And we’ve lost about 10 players who’ve passed away,” McDonald said. The reunion included T-shirts and a book of photos and newspaper clippings for each player. The book, put together by McDonald’s daughters, included memorials to Wes Banks, Burt Holloway, Pete Howard, Mike Martin, Barry Newton, Clinton Pumphrey, Kenny Roberts, Mitch Taylor, Carl Walton, Coach Mike Harris and Jerry Webb, who broadcast the games. Former AC President Paul Matney, who also was involved with the teams, attended the reunion. “He said, ‘Every time I think about it, I smile,’” McDonald recalled. “And I said, ‘I do, too.’” Mike Higgins contributed to this report.

Bill McDonald coaches in the 1970s. (Amarillo College photo)

Photos by Shannon DeFord

Former coach Bill McDonald, joined by his wife, Nancy, talks to the Amarillo College reunion group on June 8.

Russell Bailey, Coach Bill McDonald and Mike Hunt look at a clip from The Ranger, the Amarillo College newspaper, on June 8.

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Frank White, who played for the Amarillo College Badgers, signs a basketball in the Parcells/Byrd lobby at AC June 8.

Amarillo College All-American Larry Kenon talks to those attending the June 8 Badger basketball reunion on the AC campus. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Attending the Amarillo College basketball reunion June 8 were, listed with their hometowns or high schools, front row: O’Dell Denny, Amarillo; Frank White, Brandon, Miss.; Larry Kenon, Birmingham, Ala.; Mike Hunt, Alamo Catholic; Russell Bailey, Clovis, N.M., and Amarillo High; David Nevarez, El Paso; Mark Creighton, Conroe; Dennis Teeters, Amarillo; back row: Mark Ortbal, Tascosa; Ricky Walker, Alamo Catholic; Robert Mauldin, Amarillo; Terry Collins, Hedley; Bill McDonald, head coach; Mike Curry, Stinnett; David Clifton, Victoria; Allen Clifton, Victoria; Tom Simms, Tascosa; and Leon Freeman, Hedley.

Amarillo College Memories Following are some remarks by Larry Kenon at the June 8, 2019, Amarillo College basketball reunion. Kenon was a junior college All-American at AC. He transferred to Memphis State after the 1971-72 season and led the Tigers to the national championship game against UCLA. In his one year at Memphis State, he was the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year. Kenon left early for the ABA and then the NBA, averaging 17.2 Larry Kenon points in a 12-year pro career, including five years at San Antonio, where he averaged 20.7 points.

“

Carter Fitness Center, top photo, was a gym in the 1970s where the Amarillo College Badgers consistently won games. Newspaper clippings from the AC student newspaper, The Ranger, and the Amarillo GlobeNews, bottom photo, chronicled the Badgers’ progress. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

I really wasn’t a great student at all. I did enough to get by when I was in high school. But at Amarillo College, you had to maintain a 2.0 to remain eligible. I thought to myself, uh oh. But every day after practice we would eat and head to the library. This was before there were study groups, but eight or nine of us would study together every day. I promised myself I would not fail. With the exception of God, there is nothing in this world more powerful than a made-up mind. I do not accept failure from any of my kids. None of them have come to me and said, “I can’t do it.” I was taking 15 hours each semester, and all I got were Cs. But they were my Cs. One thing I loved about Coach McDonald is that he never told me that I was great. He never told me that I had anything. Once in practice we were doing the “beat ’em up” drill. Coach McDonald wanted to demonstrate this on me. I gave him the hardest time I could, and at the end of the drill he told me, “If you played like that all the time, you’d be an All-American.” He made us go to class, and we could come to him with any problems we had. My time here was so good. The two years went by fast. Amarillo College is no joke academically. No one gave us any breaks. I was on a lot of good teams, but nothing stopped Amarillo College. I was a handful for Coach McDonald at 18 years old. He made me the person I am today. I tell my kids all the time that if it weren’t for Coach McDonald, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

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Special Features

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Area State Championship Boys Teams Abernathy: 1980, 1991 (2A) Amarillo High: 1986 (5A) Amarillo Palo Duro: 1956 (3A) Brownfield: 2016 (3A) Canadian: 2015 (2A), 2016 (2A) Canyon: 1950 (1A); 1964 (2A) Carey: 1937 (all schools) Dimmitt: 1952 (1A); 1952 (Division II); 1975 (2A); 1982, 1983 (3A) Dumas: 1962, 1971 (3A) Gruver: 1950 (B); 1966 (1A) Idalou: 2011 (2A) Lamesa: 1960, 1967, 1975 (3A) Lubbock Dunbar: 1953, 1957, 1960, 1962, 1965 (PVIL 3A) Lubbock Estacado: 2010 (3A) Lubbock High: 1951 (2A) McAdoo: 1960, 1963, 1964 (B) Memphis: 1949 (1A) Morton: 1972, 1977, 1983, 1986, 1987 (2A); 2005 (1A-I); 2005 (Texas Cup) Nazareth: 1986 (1A); 2002, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2010 (1A-II); 2003 (Texas Cup) Paducah: 1987, 1988 (1A); 2011 (1A-II) Pampa: 1953, 1954, 1958, 1959 (4A), 1996 (4A) Plainview: 1994 (4A) Seminole: 1955, 1979 (2A) Shallowater: 2004 (2A) Stratford: 1946 (B) Sudan: 1995 (1A) Texline: 2015 (1A) Vega: 1979 (1A)

Area State Championship Girls Teams Abernathy: 1958, 1959, 1986, 1991 (2A); 1981, 1984 (3A) Amarillo High: 1993, 1994 (5A), 2018 (5A), 2019 (5A) Amarillo Tascosa: 1991 (5A) Brownfield: 1988 (3A) Canadian: 2017 (3A) Canyon High: 1969, 1972, 1974, 1977, 1978, 1992, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008 (3A); 1981, 1996, 2000, 2011, 2014 (4A), 2015, 2016, 2017 (5A) Canyon Randall: 1992, 1998 (4A) Claude: 1951, 1952, 1953, 1962 (B); 1971 (1A), 1972 (1A) Dimmitt: 1954, 1955 (1A); 1993 (3A) Dumas: 1980 (3A) Farwell: 2000 (2A) Hale Center: 1979 (1A) Follett: 1969 (B); 2008 (1A-II) 26

Special Features

2019 UIL State Champions Amarillo High Girls Nazareth Girls

Friona: 1964 (2A) Klondike: 1969 (B) Levelland: 1983, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1991, 1997 (4A) Lubbock Monterey: 1981 (5A) Lubbock Roosevelt: 1957 (B); 1965 (1A) Morton: 1987 (2A) Nazareth: 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980 (B); 1981, 1982, 1984, 1985, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1996. 2000 (1A); 2001, 2002, 2005, 2007, 2014 (1A-II), 2015, 2017 (1A), 2018 (1A), 2019 (1A) New Deal: 1953 (1A) Panhandle: 1992, 2017 (2A) Phillips: 1976 (2A) Plains: 2014 (1A-I) Plainview: 1987 (5A); 2001, 2002, 2003 (4A) Ropesville: 1957 (1A) Seagraves: 2005 (1A-I); 2005 (Texas Cup) Shallowater: 2004 (2A) Slaton: 1974, 1978, 1979, 1980 (2A), 1987 (3A) Smyer: 2010, 2011 (1A-I) Spearman: 1966, 1971, 1972, 1977 (2A) Springlake-Earth: 1967, 1968 (1A) Sudan: 1983, 1987, 1994, 1995 (1A); 2009 (1A-I); 2012 (1A-I) Stratford: 1969, 1976 (1A) Sundown: 1961, 1962, 1963 (1A) Tulia: 1966, 1967, 1991 (3A) Vega: 1999 (1A) Whiteface: 1997 (1A) Whitharral: 2012 (1A-II) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball 2012-2013 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Basketball News

Two names that were front and center in the coverage of Texas Tech’s rise to the NCAA Division 1 men’s national championship game in 2019 were Mark Adams and Jarrett Culver. Adams gained attention in the media as the chief defensive coach for the aggressive Red Raiders, and as the photo above attests, he also became popular with the fans. Adams has been head coach at Clarendon College, Wayland Baptist, West Texas A&M, UT-Pan jAmerican and Howard College. And Jarrett Culver, a sophomore last year shown at right playing against Baylor, was the star of a team that had much more than its star. Culver was the No. 6 pick in the June NBA draft, going to the Minnesota Timberwolves after the Phoenix Suns traded the pick on draft night. (Photos by Elise Bressler/ Texas Tech Athletics)

WT Cheeks Scholarship West Texas A&M is accepting donations to the Maurice Cheeks Degree Completion Scholarship that a group of anonymous donors will match up to a maximum of $50,000 if given by Nov. 24, 2019. The scholarship honors Cheeks, a 2018 Naismith Hall of Fame inductee and NBA legend, and will be awarded annually to former Buff basketball players seeking to complete their degrees following the end of their playing careers. Cheeks played for WT from 1974 to 1978, where he ranks eighth all-time in career scoring with 1,277 points. He is eighth in field goals made (460), fifth in field goal percentage (.568), seventh in free throws made (307) and fourth in a single-season free throws made (212). He earned All-Missouri Valley Conference honors while in Canyon and helped lead the team to the MVC final in 1976-77. Cheeks played 15 years in the NBA, including 11 with the Philadelphia 76ers. He was a four-time all-star and made three trips to the NBA finals (1980, 1982 and 1983). He was named to four-straight NBA all-defensive squads from 1983 to 1986. He ranks fifth all-time in NBA history in steals and 11th in assists while averaging 11.7 points a game and averaged more than two steals a game for his career. His No. 10 jersey was retired by the 76ers. After retiring as a player in 1993, Cheeks began his NBA coaching career that continues today. He has served as a head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, Portland Trailblazers and De2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

troit Pistons. Cheeks has served as an assistant coach with the 76ers and currently sits on the sideline as an assistant with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he began his 41st season in the NBA last month. To make a gift to the Maurice Cheeks Degree Completion Scholarship, visit gobuffsgo.com and click “Giving.”

Jarrett Culver, representing Lubbock Coronado, was one of five area players on the 2016-17 Panhandle-Plains Basketball Super Team first team. He went on to Texas Tech and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

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Basketball News T. Boone Pickens loved basketball When T. Boone Pickens died on Sept. 11, 2019, at age 91, one of the many photographs that circulated through the media showed him in an Amarillo High basketball uniform in 1947. Pickens, one of America’s best-known entrepreneurs and a longtime businessmen in the energy field, grew up in Holdenville, Oklahoma, until he was 16, when his family moved to Amarillo in 1944. In the June 2010 issue of Texas Monthly magazine, Pickens wrote about his high school basketball experience. Sandie Boone Pickens “I loved to play basketball, and I was a pretty good guard,” he recalled. As an eighth-grader in Holdenville, he was manager of the high school team that won a state championship. He was disappointed when, after arriving in Amarillo, he had to sit out a year to be eligible to play. He did join a city league, then played as a Sandie under Coach T.G. Hull. His teammates included Jimmy Carter, Bob Henry, Larry Wartes and Jewell McDowell, who went on to become Texas A&M’s first All-American in basketball, played for the Phillips 66ers and in 1982 was inducted into the Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame. In Pickens’ senior year, the Sandies made it to the state semifinals in Austin, where they lost 37-36 to San Antonio Jefferson. Pickens scored 8 points with Kyle Rote guarding him. Pickens also guarded Rote, who became a football star at SMU and for the New York Giants. “I could have graduated in 1946, but I wanted to play for the Sandies one more season,” Pickens wrote. “Polk Robison had offered me a scholarship to play at Texas Tech, but I didn’t take it.” He did accept a basketball scholarship from Texas A&M but didn’t make the team and lost the $25 a month from the Aggies. He transferred to Oklahoma A&M, now Oklahoma State, and graduated in 1951 with a geology degree. Pickens said he learned a good life lesson from Hull at Amarillo High. “He taught us that when a game was over, it was over,” he wrote. “You never dwell on a loss.” Pickens founded what would become Mesa Petroleum in 1957, and his success at acquisitions of other companies made him wealthy. He was based in Amarillo until moving to Dallas 28

Basketball News

in 1989. Although he once served on the West Texas A&M board of regents, Pickens’ largest donations were to his alma mater, Oklahoma State. He largely funded the Cowboys’ football stadium, which is called Boone Pickens Stadium. He built an elaborate ranch headquarters in Roberts County and often flew in to an airport near Pampa but kept his residence in Dallas. Pickens’ contributions to Oklahoma State totaled $652 million, about half aca- T. Boone Pickens demic and half athletic. According to his obituary at boonepickens.com, Texas A&M’s 12th Man Magazine included A&M’s decision not to renew his $25-a-month basketball scholarship as one of the top 10 mistakes in Aggie history.

Tech star Emmett killed in Dallas Andre Emmett, Texas Tech’s all-time leading scorer and a member of the Red Raider Ring of Honor and Hall of Fame, was shot to death Sept. 23 after two men approached him sitting in a car in front of his home in Dallas. Emmett was robbed and then shot while running from the men. Dallas police later arrested the men, 32 and 29 years old, who were charged with capital murder. Emmett, 37, is the all-time Andre Emmett leading scorer in program history with 2,256 career points from 2001-04, playing under Coach Bob Knight. A high school star at Dallas Carter, he finished his Tech career scoring 17.6 points a game and with 765 rebounds, 201 assists and 164 blocks. He earned All-America honors during his senior season, was a two-time NABC All-District First-Team selection and three-time Big 12 All-Conference First-Team member. “Andre was one of the greatest players to ever wear a Texas Tech uniform,” Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt said. “Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family.” Emmett was named the Big 12 Player of the Week six times. He scored a career-high 34 points against Missouri on Feb. 9, 2003, and finished his junior season averaging 21.8 points a game. A 6-foot-5 guard, he is the all-time leading scorer in conference 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

play for the Red Raiders with 1,112 points and 17.7 points a game. He was selected in the NBA draft by the Seattle Supersonics in 2004. He played in only 14 NBA games but competed professionally in Europe and China. At the time of his death, Emmett, or ’Dre, was playing in Ice Cube’s Big 3 League, which consists of former NBA players. Emmett earned a business degree at Tech. He established the Dreams Really Exist (DRE) Foundation, which provides resources for young people to thrive in school and athletics. He was inducted into the Texas Tech Hall of Fame in 2018 and is featured on the Ring of Honor at United Supermarkets Arena.

City councilwoman competed on court Elaine Hays, the Amarillo City Council member who has announced her candidacy to replace the retiring U.S. Rep. Mac Thornberry in Congress, gained some of her competitive spirit on the basketball court. Hays played on an outstanding high school team at Bridgeport and started for two years at Texas Christian University when TCU and most other major colleges were just getting their women’s basketball programs off the ground. Hays (then Elaine Taylor) played on the Bridgeport In a photo from the Bridgeport InSissies varsity her junior and dex of Feb. 6, 1975, the then-Elaine senior years, 1974-75 and Taylor goes to the basket for the Sissies, who compiled an 1975-76, when girls basketball Bridgeport 11-1 district record. was half-court with guards on one end of the court and forwards on the other end. She was a forward, averaging 16 points a game with a high of 31. During her junior year, Bridgeport won district with an 11-1 record and completed a 21-8 season mark. The Sissies lost their bidistrict game to Comanche, the No. 2-ranked team in Texas which advanced to the Class 2A (equivalent to Class 3A today) state semifinals. After Bridgeport’s 1975-76 team was named the January Team of the Month by the Texas Girls Coaches Association, the Sissies again went 11-1 to repeat as the district champions and improved to a 26-4 season record. But again, they couldn’t get past Comanche in bidistrict. Elaine Taylor, now Elaine Hays, poses with the TCU And Comanche again made it to the basketball team before the Class 2A state semifinals. (The state 1977-78 season.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

champion that year was Phillips, whose top scorer was current Lubbock Monterey coach Jill Rankin Schneider.) Hays continued her basketball career at TCU during the 1976-77 and 1977-78 seasons, starting those years at point guard. “We were part of the very early years of beginning the women’s program at TCU, and the game was converted to full court, changing from six players to five,” she Elaine Hays recalled. “It was a difficult transition going from high school – where sports were a very central part of our small-town community and we enjoyed tremendous fan support – to college, where women’s basketball at TCU was struggling to get off the ground. “But I still have great memories of those years, and it was a great experience I will always cherish.” Hays also has run the half-mile and participates in sprint triathlons. She completed her first half-marathon in 2015. She earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing at TCU and a master’s in finance and economics at West Texas A&M University. She is a certified financial planner. She was elected to the Amarillo City Council in 2017 and on Oct. 30, she announced she is running as a Republican for the 13th Congressional District in 2020.

Queens, Schneider lauded Wayland Baptist Flying Queens teams from 1948-1982 and former Wayland Pioneer basketball player Brandon Schneider were recognized at the WBU Athletics Hall of Honor induction ceremony Nov. 2. The 1948-1982 Flying Queens teams, recently inducted into the national Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, were placed in the Hall of Honor, while Schneider received the Harley Redin Coach’s Award. Schneider became the ninth recipient of the award since it was first bestowed in 2000. Currently the head women’s basketball coach at the University of Kansas, Schneider was unable to attend the WBU ceremony because of coaching responsibilities but sent a thank-you video which was played before wife Ali and sons Cash and Cole accepted the award on his behalf. Schneider played basketball for the Pioneers from 1991 to 1995 and was Wayland’s first All-American Scholar-Athlete and NAIA Scholar-Athlete, capturing that honor three times. Schneider said he attended Flying Queens game as a boy with his father, Bob Schneider, the legendary former head women’s basketball coach at Canyon and West Texas A&M. In being around Coach Redin, “My dad made it clear to me I was in the presence of a legend and I should appreciate every opportunity I had to interact with him,” Schneider said. “To receive an honor that bears his name is the most humbling thing that has ever happened to me.” The 1948-1982 Flying Queens were the lone member of the 27th WBU Athletics Hall of Honor induction class, becoming the first group enshrined and raising the honoree total to 107. Basketball News

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Basketball News Weddings may be in Beard’s future Texas Tech men’s basketball coach Chris Beard has something to think about in the rare minutes when his mind isn’t on basketball: weddings. In August, he and Frenship volleyball coach Randi Trew, his girlfriend of two years, became engaged. Beard tweeted “Happy Birthday to my Randi & as of last night my fiancé.” Trew later tweeted, “We don’t have a wedding date yet, but I’m pretty sure it won’t be in March…” Randi Trew and Chris Beard She said on Instagram that Beard is “everything I prayed for.” Before her coaching career started, Trew played volleyball at Tech before transferring to Wayland Baptist, where she was all-Sooner Athletic Conference twice and was the Wayland most valuable player in 2004 and 2006. She has deep ties to the area; her parents live in Lubbock, and her father’s family has roots in McLean. Beard has three daughters from a previous relationship. He also was drawn into a Tech student’s wedding plans when, also in August, sophomore fan Rylee Albracht tagged Beard in a tweet a day after Justin Joyce proposed to her. Albracht asked how many retweets she would need in order for Beard to officiate at her wedding, according to the Tech student newspaper, the Daily Toreador. Five hours later, Beard replied, asking the date of the wedding. Later, he told Albracht that if the student section was filled with 4,500 students at Tech’s Nov. 5 home opener against Eastern Illinois, he would be at the wedding and “buy Whataburger” for everyone attending. The Whataburger chain then got involved, according to KCBD-TV, tweeting a graphic that said, “Help Us Help Rylee,” and encouraging students to show up at the first game.

Justin Joyce and Rylee Albracht

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Basketball News

Retired Dallas Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki gives a thumbs up after a section of a street next to American Airlines Center in Dallas was named for him Oct. 30. (Associated Press photo)

Dallas names street for Dirk Nowitzki Dirk Nowitzki spent his entire 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks, and now the city of Dallas has named a street next to his home court after the 14-time NBA all-star. The 2900-3000 block of Olive Street south of American Airlines Center now is Nowitzki Way, and a few hundred people attended an Oct. 30 ceremony to rename it, according to the Associated Press. “It’s sort of surreal,” Nowitzki told the crowd. “From my first year, the city probably wouldn’t have named a dumpster after me.” Dallas drafted the 20-year-old Nowitzki in 1998, and he retired from the Mavericks after the 2018-19 season. In between, the German native opened the NBA door for European and other foreign players and provided the model for big men shooting from the outside. Many observers consider Nowitzki the greatest player in Mavericks history. He scored more points than any foreign-born NBA player, was the 2007 NBA MVP and was the NBA Finals MVP when Dallas won its only championship in 2011. The Dallas City Council approved the name change unanimously, the AP reported. Nowitzki was known for community service, and Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said the retired star asked him what he could do to help after the Oct. 20 tornado. According to the AP, Nowitzki and Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw, a Dallas native, visited the city emergency operations center to encourage employees who had worked around the clock. Since he retired, the 7-foot power forward has spent time with his wife and three children and with his Dirk Nowitzki Foundation, which seeks to improve the health and welfare of women and children. Nowitzki’s 21 seasons with one team is an NBA record. He played 18 of those campaigns at American Airlines Center after three years at Reunion Arena. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

College Basketball Briefs Texas Tech’s powerful run through the Division 1 NCAA tournament in 2019 attracted the attention of the state and nation, and even before the regular season was over, the Red Raiders drew some well-known names to United Supermarkets Arena. Attending the Tech-Texas game Feb. 4 in Lubbock was Dennis Rodman, who was on five NBA championship teams with the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons and was the NBA Defensive Player of the Year twice. Rodman appreciated Tech’s tough defense, according to KCBD-TV in Lubbock. “The game has changed a lot,” he told KCBD. “Guys don’t like to play defense, but they like to take the money. Defense is good, especially when you go to the NCAA Tournament. You are going to need defense. “When these guys reach the Final Four, this city, they are going to go nuts.” Rodman was correct. After defeating the Longhorns 70-51, the Red Raiders not only reached the Final Four, but they fell just short of Virginia in overtime in the national championship game. And they did generate unparalleled excitement. • • • Matthew Madison, a former West Texas A&M basketball standout, was one of six former WT athletes inducted into the WT Athletic Hall of Champions at a Jan. 18, 2019, ceremony. Madison, a Childress product, competed for the Buffs from 1999 to 2003. He was a two-time Lone Star Conference champions as WT went 81-35 during his Buff career. He was honorable mention All-Lone Star Conference as a senior and scored 933 Matthew Madison points in his career. Is third in the WT records for games played with 114, seventh in three-point shots made with 124 and ninth in attempted three-pointers with 305. Also inducted into the Hall of Champions Jan. 18 were Grady Benton, football, 1994-1995; Ben Hangartner, baseball, 1999-2002; Katie Rickwartz Yung, volleyball, 2006-2009; Ralph Anderson, football, 1968-1970; and Mary Ann Hill, track and field, 1969-1975. The Legacy Award for individuals and organizations who have made significant lifetime contributions to the success and legacy of WT athletics went to the Piehl family and to W.C. “Chick” and Nancy Russell. • • • Reagan Haynes, who finished her West Texas A&M basketball career this year, was one of 131 Division II athletes nominated for the 2019 NCAA Woman of the Year Award. The award honors excellence in academics, athletics, service and leadership. Lady Buff Madison Parker was nominated for the award the previous year, and Bri Leeper of WT was one of nine finalists in 2016. Haynes, a former Gruver standout, was part of WT teams that advanced to the Division II Sweet 16 three straight times. She scored 264 points in 89 Lady Buff games. Shewas a two-time 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

ADA Achievement Award selection and earned an Elite 90 Award in 2016-17, when she was the foruth WT student athlete to earn the award for highest cumulative grade point average competing for a championship team. This year’s winner of the NCAA Woman of the Year Award, announced Oct. 20 in Indianapolis, is Angela Mercurio, a former triple jumper at the University of Nebraska. • • • Reagan Haynes Two Texas Tech Lady Raiders gained international experience in 2019 as Brittany Brewer won a silver medal playing with the U.S. team in the Pan Am Games this summer and sophomore Chrislyn Carr was the first Lady Raider in history to be invited to the USA Women’s U19 World Cup team trials in Colorado Springs. Brewer, a 6-5 forward from Abilene Wylie, was one of two Big 12 players to make the team and was the first Lady Raider on the Pan Am squad in 24 years after Tech legend Sheryl Swoopes was on the team in 1995. Carr, a 5-5 guard from Davenport, Iowa, was one of 30 players and one of six Big 12 freshmen to participate in the U19 World Cup trials. • • • Six former Texas Tech basketball players and one coach were the first inductees to the Tech Basketball Ring of Honor on March 4, 2019. The Ring of Honor consists of an elite group of players and coaches who have made outstanding contributions to Tech basketball and will have their names permanently etched in United Supermarkets Arena. The 2019 inductees are Marsha Sharp, the Lady Raiders’ coach for 24 years who led Tech to the 1993 NCAA national championship; Sheryl Swoopes, who scored 47 points in the 1993 national title game against Ohio State and set 30 women’s basketball records in her two years as a Lady Raider; Carolyn Thompson, an All-American who still holds the all-time Tech scoring record for men or women at 2,655 points from 1980 to 1984; Rick Bullock, a two-time Southwest Conference Player of the Year who notched 2,118 points and 1,057 rebounds from 1973 to 1976; Dub Malaise, a two-time AP All-American who helped lead the Red Raiders to the Southwest Conference title in 1965 and scored 1,420 points from 1964 to 1966; Jim Reed, the all-time leading rebounder in program history with 1,333 boards and 1,689 points from 1953 to 1956 and Tech’s first AP All-American; and Andre Emmett, the Red Raiders’ all-time leading scorer with 2,256 points from 2001 to 2004 and was an All-American his senior season. Emmett was shot to death Sept. 23 in front of his home in Dallas. • • • Jalin Conyers, a 2019-20 senior at Gruver, signed early to compete in college for the University of Oklahoma – but in football, not basketball. Conyers was named to the Class 2A state all-tournament basketball team when his West Texas High Comanches won Basketball News

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Basketball News state in 2018. In the state finals win over Thorndale, the 6-5 athlete scored 10 points to go along with 10 rebounds and 3 steals. In the state semifinals against Shelbyville, he had 28 points, including four dunks, 3 rebounds and 5 steals. He transferred to Gruver for the 2018-19 year, and the Greyhounds made it to the state championship game. Conyers had 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals, but Gruver lost in the 2019 finals to Shelbyville. Gruver’s football team also reached the state finals in 2019, Jalin Conyers where they fell to Mart. Conyers caught 61 passes for 1,225 yards and 19 touchdowns on the gridiron in that run to state and was an all-state selection by the Texas Sports Writers Association. Conyers took a silver medal for Gruver in the triple jump at the state track meet. He announced on July 12 that he will play football at OU after his senior year at Gruver. In the 2019 Gruver football season, Conyers switched from receiver to quarterback, but the Sooners recruited him as a tight end. Some other college signings after the 2018-19 season include: • BJ Anderson, Tascosa, with Angelo State University • Blakely Gerber, Nazareth, with Wayland Baptist University • A.J. Jackson, Bushland, Frank Phillips College • Ashlyn Milton, Amarillo High, with Trinity University • Jaecie Mitchell, River Road, with Frank Phillips College • Alexis Murguia, Tascosa, with Central Wyoming College • Kaytlin Shipley, River Road, with Frank Phillips College • Madison Stokes, Amarillo High, with Angelo State University • Savannah Sumrall, Wellington, with Lubbock Christian University • Brylee Winfrey, Canyon, with Lubbock Christian University. • • • Brennyn Seagler, who played at Gruver and Seward County Community College, received national recognition last season at the end of her junior year at Oklahoma City University. Seagler was named as a second-team all-tournament selection at the NAIA national tournament in Billings, Montana. OCU was the national runner-up in the tournament to finish a 33-5 season as they lost in the finals to Montana Western, 75-59. The 5-11 forward averaged 9 points and 4.8 rebounds during the tournament, according to sportswriter Kale Steed, after recording 7.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game for the season. • • • 32

Basketball News

Two of the five people inducted into the Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame on Feb. 10, 2019, were basketball players, and one of them went on to become a college official. Del Ray Mounts, the 179th PSHOF inductee, was a two-time All-Southwest Conference guard at Texas Tech in 1961-62 and 1962-63 after winning all-state honors at Perryton. He ended his college career with 1,346 points. The 5-9¾ guard twice was named to the UPI Small All-America team and was inducted into the Southwest Conference Hall of Fame in 2016. He later played for the Phillips 66ers, a powerhouse in AAU basketball, then lived for many years at Garden City, Kansas. Mounts attended the February induction ceremony in Amarillo. He died in Garden City on July 28, 2019. Bobby Dibler, the 181st PSHOF inductee, was an outstanding basketball player at Amarillo High, Amarillo College and Texas Western before becoming one of the top college officials in the country. The 5-11 guard was all-district for the Sandies in 1961, then helped lead AC to the national junior college tournament as a sophomore. He played point guard for Coach Don Haskins at Texas Western (now UTEP) before officiating high school and then college games. He was an official in three Final Fours and remains the coordinator for the Western Officials Consortium, which controls six Division I conferences. The other inductees were Ona Lee Johnson (No. 180), who won state in tennis for Phillips and later became an active tennis supporter in Amarillo; Lance Lahnert (No. 182), sports editor of the Amarillo Globe-News from 2006 to 2018; and Jon Mark Beilue (No. 183), sports editor of the Globe-News from 1989 to 2006. Honored in 2019 as basketball player of the year for the previous season was David Chavlovich of West Texas A&M. The basketball coach of the year was WT men’s head coach Tom Brown. • • • The 2020 induction class of the Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame includes no basketball players, but Amarillo’s Wardell Gilbreath, who will be inducted for his track career, has two daughters who were McDonald’s All-Americans and played at USC. Both Brianna and Stefanie Gilbreath had outstanding high school careers at Katy Cinco Ranch. Brianna Gilbreath-Butler piled up honors as a four-year starter for the USC Trojans from 2008 to 2012, including Pac 12 Freshman of theYear and honorable mention AP All-American recognition. She played for Phoenix, Connecticut and Indiana of the WNBA from 2012 to 2015. Stefanie Gilbreath followed her sister to USC, where her career was interrupted by injuries. She played for the Trojans from 2007 to 2012 before finishing college basketball at New Mexico State. She played professionally in Europe. Scheduled to be honored in February 2020 as the basketball player of the year for the previous season is Zayla Tinner, now a senior at Amarillo High. The basketball coach of the year will be Amarillo High girls coach Jeff Williams. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

• • • Brandon Wolfram, a 1997 Amarillo High graduate, traveled an unconventional path to the University of Texas at El Paso Athletics Hall of Fame. His sixth grade basketball coach was Lance Lahnert, then an Amarillo Globe-News sportswriter and later a member of the Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame. In 2018, when Wolfram was inducted into the UTEP hall, Lahnert wrote that the 6-9 former player competed at Amarillo High as a freshman but because of knee injuries never played on the Sandie varsity. After UTEP assistant coaches saw Wolfram playing in an AAU game in 1996, legendary coach Don Haskins took a chance on him. Wolfram ended up scoring 1,831 points, currently third on UTEP’s all-time list, from 1997 to 2001 and played 5½ professional seasons in Spain. He was an academic Brandon Wolfram All-American twice. Wolfram is the founder and owner of Sport Progression, a sports performance and basketball training facility in El Paso. He has degrees in business from UTEP (2002) and philosophy from the University of London (2014). • • • Tony Benford, the former Texas Tech star who coached LSU in the 2019 NCAA tournament, now is on the staff at TCU under head coach Jamie Dixon. Benford had been an LSU assistant for two years when Tiger head coach Will Wade was suspended for insubordination. The Hobbs, New Mexico, native led LSU the last five games, including a run to the Sweet 16. He was a key player at Tech from 1982 to 1986 and has been an assistant at New Mexico, Arizona State, Nebraska and Marquette. Benford was head coach at North Texas from 2012 to 2017. • • • A two-time All-American is the only basketball player schedule for induction into the Texas Tech Hall of Fame this November. Jarrius Jackson scored the second-most points in Tech history and was a two-time All-American, a John R. Wooden Award Finalist and three-time All-Big 12 selection from 2004 to 2007 for head coach Bob Knight. Jackson started 131 games and finished with 2,221 career points while also adding 357 assists and 196 steals. He is fifth in Tech history with 232 3-pointers. A Louisiana native, Jackson earned All-America honors as a junior, when he averaged 20.5 points a game before receiving the honor as a senior with 19.9 points per game. Jackson, who scored a career-high 41 points at Nebraska in 2006, earned All-Big 12 first team honors in his final two seasons after a third-team selection as a sophomore and being honored as a Big 12 All-Freshman in his first year. Jarrius Jackson After his Red Raider career, he played professionally in Spain, Ukraine and Italy. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Former Wayland Flying Queens All-American Linda Pickens Price, president of the Flying Queens Foundation, and husband Ben pose with Charles Barkley in Minneapolis in April 2019. Barkley was in town as a commentator at the NCAA Division 1 Final Four. (Photo courtesy of Danny Andrews)

The other 2019 Tech Hall of Fame inductees will be soccer player Kristy Frantz (1996-1999), hurdler Shawon Harris (2004-2006, 2008), distance runner Sally Kipyego (2006-2009), and football players Mike Sears (1973-1976) and Dwayne Slay (2004-2005). • • • Cole Bene’ of Allen completed his college basketball career at Howard Payne as one of five Yellow Jacket players on the Academic All-Conference honor roll of the American Southwest Conference. Bene’, the son of a Tascosa graduate, was a 6-6 forward for Howard Payne for three years after playing his freshman year at Earlham College in Indiana. As a senior, he had a season-high 9 points and 9 rebounds against Belhaven. He is the son of Sherae Thompson Bene’, a 1977 Tascosa graduate, and her husband, Alan, and played in a competitive home school league in Allen before graduating in 2015. He averaged 16 points a game for his team, which was ranked No. 4 in the state, and he was all-region. • • • Three players from area colleges received honors from the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches in San Antonio for 2019. Jarrett Culver of Texas Tech, a Lubbock Coronado graduate, was the Division I men’s Player of the Year; Maddi Chitsey of Lubbock Christian, a product of Wall, was the small college women’s Player of the Year; and Gabbie Green of South Plains College, a Bellville graudate, was the junior college women’s Player of the Year. TABC College Coaches of the Year from the area were Chris Basketball News

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Basketball News Beard, Texas Tech men’s coach, in Division 1; and Steve Gomez, Lubbock Christian women’s coach, in the small college division. Beard and Gomez were repeat honorees from 2018. Mark Adams of Texas Tech was the Division I men’s Assistant Coach of the Year. • • • Former Lubbock Christian University women’s b a s ke t b a l l A l l - A m e r i c a n Te s s B r u f f e y B r a d l e y has signed a professional contract to play in Portugal with Ovarense of the Liga Feminina de Basquetebol. The contract is the second signed by Bruffey Bradley since graduating from LCU at the conclusion of the 2017-18 season. She signed her first pro contract in January playing with the Norwood Flames in Australia’s Premier League. Tess was second in scoring for the Flames (13.3 points per game) and led the squad in rebounds per game (10.1). She also averaged 3.8 blocks per game, leading to Premier League Defensive Player of the Year honors. • • • Amarillo High graduate Adam Rivera will be a junior this season at UT-Permian Basin, a Lone Star Conference team. Rivera played his freshman year at Arkansas-Fort Smith. Last season at UTPB, the 6-7 forward had highs of 12 points and 7 rebounds against Ferris State. • • • Clifford “CJ” Byrd of Memphis will be a sophomore this season at Bethel College in Kansas. The 6-0 guard was all-district, all-region and all-state for the Memphis Cyclines. • • • Bryn Gerlich, daughter of UT-Arington women’s basketball coach Krista Gerlich, is a sophomore on the Oklahoma State basketball team. The 6-0 forward played in 23 games for the Cowgirls as a freshman and was named to the 2018-19 Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team. Bryn Gerlich was a TABC all-state selection in high school, playing for Colleyville Heritage. She was district MVP twice and was the 2017 Texas Christian Athlete of the Year. She was selected for the 2017 Adidas Uprising Bryn Gerlich All-American Camp. She scored more than 2,000 points in her high school career. As a senior, she averaged 14.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.7 steals and 1.5 assists. As a junior, she averaged 19.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.9 steals. As a sophomore, she averaged 21.5 points and 5.9 rebounds. She also competed in volleyball, track and cross country. Bryn Gerlich’s mother, then Krista Kirkland, played on Texas Tech’s 1993 NCAA championship basketball team and was head coach at West Texas A&M before taking the same position at UTArlington. Bryn’s father is Bryan Gerlich, who played football at Texas Tech. Her younger brother is Brayden Gerlich. • • • 34

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The Texas Tech Final Four basketball team has had plenty of motivation in the past year from two young men whose struggles have inspired others. After Tech student Colin Baxter lost his sight at age 20 in 2016 due to a brain tumor, Red Raider coach Chris Beard visited him in the hospital. Beard told Baxter, who at the time didn’t think he could finish his degree, that the student would beat cancer and finish school. Beard even asked Baxter to be a team manager, which would require him to remain a student. “Coach Beard saved my life,” Baxter told the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. “I could have slipped through te cracks. I probably wouldn’t have finished school. But Coach knew I could do more.” During Tech’s run to the 2019 national championship game, Baxter was a member of the basketball family, working as a manager and sitting with the radio announcers at home games so he could follow the games in real time. Play-by-play announcer Geoff Haxton told the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, “I think when the players see him, they think, ‘OK, we have even more to play for.’” Beard told Texas Tech Today that he likes having his players around someone as tough as Baxter. Then there is Luke Siegel, the son of then-Tech tennis coach Tim Siegel, who has fought a brain injury since a golf cart accident in 2015 at age 9. Luke lost the use of his limbs and communicates by blinking his eyes.Therapy has helped him bend his knees and hold his head up. Luke’s situation has brought national attention with athletes such as Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints and former Tech quarterback Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs offering support. Locally, Tech teams have offered their encourage. The football team provided Luke a chance to score the first touchdown in his wheelchair at a scrimmage, and the men’s basketball team has included him at practices and fist bumps before games. Tim Siegel spends most of his time promoting the Team Luke Foundation, which works with Hope4Minds to provide help for those suffering from brain injuries. Contributions can be made at teamlukehopeforminds.org. • • • Sheryl Swoopes, the 1990s Texas Tech All-American, Olympics star and former WNBA All-Star, has had action figure figures of herself sold in stores and a Nike shoe named Air Swoopes, but 2019 was the first time she’s been made into a Legos figure. In The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part, Swoopes appears in a scene as a Legos mini-figure, the first WNBA player to achieve that distinction. Her figure wears her No. 22 Houston Comets jersey.

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High School Basketball Briefs One high-profile coaching change in the region this summer was Kevin Richardson leaving Canadian to coach at Wall. Richardson had been Canadian’s girls coach for 18 years, and his Lady Cats won the state championship two years ago. At Wall, Richardson replaced Tate Lombard, who now is an assistant coach at Canyon under his dad, the ultra-successful Joe Lombard. Richardson and Tate Lombard both Kevin Richardson are Canyon graduates, and Wall defeated Canadian last spring in an Class 3A area playoff game. The younger Lombard won two state titles at Wall. Richardson’s 20-year head coaching record (18 at Canadian and two at Abernathy) is 532-121. “The things we did at Canadian were tough to leave,” he told Amarillo Globe-News sportswriter Lee Passmore. Another eye-catching move was Tate Lombard’s return to Canyon. Observers speculate about the possibility of Joe Lombard retiring and Tate replacing him as the Lady Eagles’ head coach. The elder Lombard told Passmore that the two of them coaching together always had been a dream and that the Lombard family now is closer together geographically. When Canyon assistant Kody Smith left to go into business, Tate Lombard applied for the position. Joe and Babs Lombard’s daughter, Lindy, also has moved back to the area with her Tate Lombard family after her own coaching stint. • • • Lubbock Southcrest Christian won the TAPPS Class 2A girls state championship for 2018-19, defeating Shiner St. Paul Catholic 41-34 in the state title game. Lubbock Trinity Christian won the TAPPS Class 4A girls state championship with a 72-34 win over Houston Lutheran North. (See feature and photos on the Trinity Christian Lady Lions in the front section of the magazine.) On the boys side, Lubbock Trinity Christian fell short of the TAPPS Class 4A state title as the Lions lost 79-57 to Arlington Grace Prep in the championship game. • • • The Texas Association of Basketball Coaches All-Star Games for 2019 included six girls and three boys from the Panhandle-Plains region: 6A, 5A and Private School Girls: Ashlyn Milton, Amarillo High 4A, 3A, 2A and 1A Girls: Hope Moon, McLean; Holly Hemmeline, Denver City; Miranda Villegas, Levelland; Blakely Gerber, Nazareth; Brylee Winfrey, Canyon 4A, 3A, 2A and 1A Boys: Jake Gerber, Nazareth; Zack Muniz, Brownfield; Stephon Harris, Childress • • •

Ricky Guy, who retired as the girls basketball coach and golf coach at River Road after the 2018-19 season, now is the boys and girls golf coach at Canyon on a part-time basis. Guy replaced Johnny Hampton as the Canyon boys golf coach and Kody Smith as the Lady Eagles golf mentor. Smith went into private business, while Hampton remains an assistant for the Lady Eagles basketball team. Guy, on the right above, poses with Canyon girls basketball coach Joe Lombard at a West Texas A&M golf tournament this July. After graduating at Memphis, Guy played basketball at Texas Tech from 1980 to 1982. He has coached basketball at Lakeview, Claude and Memphis and led Memphis to a boys state golf championship in 2003 and to girls state titles in 2007 and 2012. • • • A coach who took Pampa to state success and a player who became an All-American for the Texas Tech Lady Raiders are Texas Association of Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame honorees. Robert Hale, who was among those inducted into the TABC Hall of Fame in May 2019, coached the Pampa Harvesters for 13 years, including state semifinals appearances in 1991 and 1992 and a state championship in 1996. The Lubbock High graduate coached Robert Hale basketball for 45 years at various schools, compiling 768 wins at public schools. As Lance Lahnert pointed out in the Amarillo Globe-News, Hale’s players wore jersey numbers that each added up to the number 5 to represent the team play of five players on the court. Erin Grant, a four-year standout point guard at Texas Tech, will be inducted in May 2020. She was a three-time All-Big 12 Conference honoree, including first team accolades in 2005 and 2006. Grant was the Big 12 Co-Freshman of the Year in 2003 As a senior in 2006, Grant was a Kodak/ WBCA All-American and an AP AllErin Grant

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Basketball News America honorable mention selection. She played in the WBCA All-Star Challenge following her senior campaign and was the 39th overall pick in the 2006 WNBA Draft by the Seattle Storm. Grant led Mansfield to four straight high school state championships and a 145-6 record from 1999 to 2002, becoming the only player to win four consecutive state titles. She was Miss Texas Basketball in 2002. She has been an assistant coach at UT-Arlington, Memphis, New Mexico and Tech. • • • Three area high school players were named Players of the Year in 2019 by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches. Jake Gerber of Nazareth was the boys Class 1A Player of the Year; Blakely Gerber of Nazareth was the girls Class 1A Player of the Year; and Zayla Tinner of Amarillo High was the girls Class 5A Player of the Year. Coaches from the area who received TABC high school coaching awards were: Dean Weese Outstanding Coach Award: Class 5A, Kyle Lovorn, Lubbock Cooper; and Class 3A, Tyler Helms, Idalou. Dean Weese Award finalists included: Class 4A, Clay Barnett, Levelland; Class 2A, Chris Sumrall, Wellington; and Class 1A, Stacey Smalley, New Home. Don Coleman Outstanding Coach Award: Class 5A, Jeremy McFerrin, Lubbock Monterey; and Class 3A, Wayne Parker, Childress. Don Coleman Award finalists included: Class 2A, Tim Webb, Wellington; and Class 1A, Brittin East, McLean. Dana Fox of Idalou was a finalist for girls Assistant Coach of the Year.

Youth Basketball Briefs The Fredericksburg Pride basketball girls finished on top among 32 teams in Abilene Christian University’s team camp varsity tournament in August 2019. The Pride were coached by Kristin McKinnon, a former Tascosa and North Texas standout player, assisted by her father and former Amarillo Globe-News publisher, Garet von Netzer, and husband, Mike McKinnon. All but two of the Pride’s roster were middle schoolers going into the eighth grade, while two cagers are underclassmen at Fredericksburg High School this year. McKinnon had to ask for special permission for her youthful cagers to participate in the tournament featuring varsity teams. “This team camp tournament was for high school teams, and most of those teams had their juniors and seniors playing,” she said. “So for us to compete with all these varsity girls from all over the state was one thing, but to win the entire tournament was really special for our girls.” The Pride finished 7-0 in the two-day tournament. The Fredericksburg girls began drawing attention as long as two years ago, when they finished third in a national tourna36 Basketball News

Joe and Babs Lombard, left, and Dean and JoAnn Weese laugh at Dean Weese’s surprise 84th birthday party in Granbury in September 2019 attended by about 100 former Wayland Flying Queens and Levelland Loboettes, family and friends. Joe Lombard and Dean Weese have combined for more than 2,500 victories and 29 state championships. Both are members of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo courtesy of Danny Andrews) Rosemary Brown Bowser, left, was one of many former Wayland Flying Queens who attended the announcement ceremony in April of the 1948-1982 Queens’ September induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. The announcement was made during the NCAA Final Four in Minneapolis. Bowser was the first head girls basketball coach at Amarillo High and later coached at Palo Duro before her retirement. (Photo courtesy of Danny Andrews)

ment in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Last summer, they won a national tournament in Lubbock. The team won its pool by beating Westbrook, Slaton and Cross Plains. Its closest game in the tournament was to perennial girls basketball powerhouse Slaton. The Pride won 30-28 in overtime. In bracket play, the Pride beat San Angelo, Jim Ned and Christoval to reach the championship game. In that game, they defeated Cisco 48-31 for the overall title. “I couldn’t be more proud of our girls,” McKinnon said. “The difference between our younger girls and these other teams is our defensive intensity all game long and our balance on offense. Most games, every girl scored. Every girl had big games during the tournament. Their skill level is off the chart, and their basketball IQ is exceptional for their age. They handle pressure extremely well.” Pride point guard Madison McKinnon was named the tournament MVP. Kristin McKinnon graduated from Tascosa in 1988, then played two years at Texas Tech before transferring to North Texas, where she had a successful career from 1990 to 1993. She set Mean Green records for assists and free throws and was the North Texas Outstanding Woman Athlete her senior year. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Obituaries

The Fredericksburg Pride basketball team members who won a 32-team varsity tournament at Abilene Christian University in August 2019 are, from left, front row: Madison McKinnon, Bailey Guzman, Calyssa Sevier and Taylor Grona. Back row: Coach Kristin McKinnon, Lauren Danz, Madison Frantzen, Audrey Spurgin and Brooke Batch. Coach McKinnon is a former player for Tascosa and North Texas.

Her brother, Kevin von Netzer of Amarillo, also had a productive high school and college career, graduating from Tascosa in 1991 and playing collegiately at Eastern New Mexico. Garet Von Netzer came to the Globe-News as a sportswriter in 1971 and rose to become sports editor, managing editor, executive editor, general manager and publisher of the newspaper before retiring to the family ranch near Fredericksburg. He and Danny Andrews, formerly of Plainview, also started Panhandle-Plains Basketball Magazine in 1972.

Above is one of the Amarillo Elite teams that have won basketball championships this year. Amarillo Elite is a youth program designed to help young athletes “broaden their worldview of possibilities, encourage development to build the skills to achieve their goals and the self-confiedence in character to carry it through.” For information, go to amarilloelite.com.

Hulon Maurice Kirkland, 72, of Levelland died June 24, 2019. Kirkland played basketball at Dumas and attended Angelo State University on a basketball scholarship. He was an educator who taught and coached for 33 years. He was born June 18, 1947, in Amarillo to Austin and Lorene Kirkland. He grew up in Cactus and graduated from Dumas High School. In 1968, he enlisted in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War; he Hulen Kirkland was honorably discharged in 1972. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Nancy Kirkland; his children, Audra Kirkland and husband Daniel, Dreu Kirkland and wife Amie, Lauren Vaughan and husband Chris, Cole Kirkland and wife Mackinzie; his grandchildren, Devany, Brittany, Danielle, Leilani, Julian, Danica, Ryker, Raelynn, Trenton and Liam; and a great grandchild, Araya. • • • Del Ray Mounts 79, of Garden City, Kansas, died July 28, 2019, in Garden City. He was born on March 17, 1940 at Beaver, Oklahoma, the son of Samuel and Nellie (Albright) Mounts. He married Sharon R. Wilson, and they enjoyed 61 years of marriage together. Mounts graduated from Perryton High School in 1958. He went to Texas Tech University on a baseball scholarship and walked on the basketball team. Del Ray Mounts His sophomore season, he was awarded a basketball scholarship and led the team in scoring the next three seasons. During his Tech career he averaged 17.7 points a game and scored 1,346 points. He scored in double figures in 38 straight games. He was a two-time All-Southwest Conference first team selection and a two-time Small All-American honoree. After graduating with a business degree, he moved to Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and was a member of the renowned Phillips 66ers, an amateur powerhouse that won multiple AAU national championships. He is a member of the Texas Tech Hall Of Fame and the Southwest Conference Hall Of Fame. When asked about his basketball philosophy, he said, “I put up a lot of shots. Now and then, one of them would go in. I kept shooting, shooting, shooting. My coach said keep shooting until it goes in. If it’s round and feels like leather, shoot it.” Mounts was inducted into Del Ray Mounts

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Basketball News the Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame in February 2019. After his playing career he moved to Garden City to work with Phillips 66 for two years and then moved to the corporate office in Denver. While in Denver he was instrumental in starting the Centaur Youth Organization, a training program for youth in football, baseball and life. He returned to Garden City to become owner-operator of Mounts Oil Co., which had three filling stations and a bulk fuel and oil division. In Garden City, Mounts coached many youth basketball and baseball teams. He was a member of First Southern Baptist Church and past president of Southwind Country Club and the Lions Club. He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Marshall Dean Mounts. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Mounts; a son, Del Ray, and Karla Mounts Jr. of Wichita, Kansas; a brother, Duane and Norma Mounts of Perryton; four grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. • • • Mary Jeanette Niles, 82, of Amarillo died March 7, 2019. She was a star basketball player at Gruver, where she graduated in 1954. She was born Oct. 26, 1936, in Hitchland to A.L. Thoreson and Grace (Brinkley). In 1954, she married Dee Allen of Spearman, where she raised her two children. Jeanette was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Spearman. She loved gardening Mary Jeanette Niles and playing volleyball and golf. In 1995, she moved to Amarillo, where she married Leslie J. Niles. They enjoyed traveling and also shared a passion for wood carving. She was instrumental in establishing the Golden Spread Woodcarvers of Amarillo. Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Les Niles, who died in 2016, four brothers and two sisters. Survivors include her son Elden Allen and wife Renee of Corinth; her daughter Jan Robinson and husband Micky of Amarillo; grandchildren Chaz Allen and wife Vanessa; Tabor Allen and wife Jennifer; Trevor Allen; Brinkley Allen; Cody Robinson and wife Ashlynne, and Garrett Robinson, both of Amarillo; and four great-grandchildren, Emma Allen, Tabor Allen, Rex Allen and Atlas Robinson. • • • Gary Don Ray, 67, a former Paducah area resident and a pro cutting horse trainer from Throckmorton, died July 11, 2019. Ray also was a star basketball player for the Paducah Dragons and enjoyed watching his girls, Terri Jo and Wendy, play basketball as well as seeing them participate in cutting horse competition. While at Paducah High School in the late 1960s, he was nicknamed “Cowboy Ray,” according to writer Brett Hoffman. Ray and the horses he trained and rode qualified for many National Cutting Horse Association events. He had been a AAAA 38

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National Cutting Horse Association judge since 1985. He married Connie Ash on June 9, 1973, and attended Cisco Junior College. He was born Sept. 12, 1951, in Haskell to Jack and Helen Moeller Ray. He was preceded in death by his dad. He is survived by his wife, Connie; his daughters, Terri Jo Flowers and husband Tim of Midland and Wendy Masterson and husband Robert of Gary Don Ray Guthrie, Texas; eight grandchildren, Sloan Stephens, Sydney Stephens, Tod Flowers, Myca Flowers, Temi Flowers, Macy Flowers, Hadley Ray, and Mattie Masterson; his mother, Helen Ray of Throckmorton; his brothers, Ronnie Ray of Stephenville and Charles Ray of Springlake; his sisters, Vonnie Jones of Throckmorton and Brenda Burns of Midway; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. The family suggested memorial donations in his name to Horsemen for Christ, P.O. Box 728, Archer City, TX 76351. • • • Laura Mae Switzer, 77, of Edmond, Oklahoma, died April 19, 2019, in Oklahoma City. She was born in McLean, Texas, to Forrest and Rachel Switzer. She is survived by her sister, Glenda Roachelle of Las Vegas, Nevada; a nephew, Jim Roachelle of Walnut Creek, California; a niece, Laura Quiroga of North Bend, Oregon; a great-niece and three greatnephews. Her parents, her brother John Laura Mae Switzer Switzer and her nephew Charles Switzer preceded her in death. After a successful high school basketball career at McLean, Switzer received her B.A. degree from Wayland Baptist University in Plainview; her M.Ed. degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford; and her Ed.D from the University of Oklahoma. In 1963, she began her teaching and coaching career in the Sanford-Fritch school district, where she taught math and coached junior and senior high boys and girls basketball, track, volleyball and tennis. She served as a graduate teaching assistant and women’s basketball coach while pursuing her Ed.D degree at the University of Oklahoma. She joined the faculty at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1965, teaching in the health and physical education department and coaching women’s sports. She retired from Southwestern in 2001, ending a 36-year career in education. Switzer was member of the Wayland Baptist Flying Queens 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

basketball team. She was a three-time All American (1961,1962 and 1963). During the four years that she played basketball at Wayland, the Hutcherson Flying Queens accumulated an overall win-loss record of 90-12, won one AAU Championship and finished as the runner-up three times. The 6-foot-1 post from McLean won AAU AllAmerican honors three times and became the first-ever member of the Queens to earn most valuable player honors at the AAU national tournament. In 1961, as a member of the USA basketball team, she Laura Mae Switzer traveled to Russia and Sweden. She was a member of the gold medal Pan American team that traveled to Sao Paulo, Brazil in 1961. Wayland Baptist inducted Switzer into its Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010. In 2011, she was inducted into the SWOSU Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2019, the Wayland Flying Queens teams of 1948-1982 were inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. She was active in Delta Kappa Gamma, the Oklahoma As-

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sociation for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance and both the Southern District and the National Associations for Health and Physical Education. In 1996, she received the Honor Award from the Oklahoma Association HPERD, and in 1993 the National Association for Girls and Women in Sports honored her with the Pathfinder Award. While at Southwestern, Switzer taught a full course load as a professor in the health, physical education and recreation department while successfully juggling her role as women’s athletics coordinator. She oversaw more than 200 women who annually took part in basketball, volleyball, field hockey, tennis, track and field, softball and badminton. Switzer would transport teams, often in her own car, to competitions across the state under the governance of the OAIAW, AIAW and later the NAIA. “She was a real role model for our female athletes,” said Dr. Joanna Hibler, Southwestern president emeritus. “She was a good campus and community citizen who was always interested, involved and willing to help. She was a true ambassador for her university.” • • •

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2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Texas Tech Men

Raiders ready for another big fight By MIKE HAYNES Co-Publisher “Raider” and “Power” were more than two words shouted back and forth from the stands last year. For the Texas Tech men’s basketball team, “Raider – Power” describes a season that saw Tech’s first Big 12 regular season co-championship, the most wins in Red Raider history, a No. 2 USA Today national ranking and an NCAA championship game that left the red and black just short of the ultimate accomplishment – and in overtime, no less. And the words describe a team that earned a reputation for toughness on defense and tenaciousness overall. After reaching the Elite Eight and a loss to national champion Villanova in 2018, Tech led its supporters even farther in 2019 with each forward step bringing more believers that a school from Lubbock, Texas, could win it all. And the Raiders came awfully close, taking a three-point lead over Virginia with 35 seconds left in the national title game in Minneapolis before the Cavaliers’ De’andre Hunter hit a three-pointer with 14 seconds remaining to force overtime. Virginia went on to an 85-77 victory, but Texas Tech had established itself as a player on the national stage. The Raider record was 31-7, and Coach Chris Beard was named the Associated Press National Coach of the Year. “We’ll bounce back,” Beard said after the game. “In terms of Texas Tech basketball, we’re not going anywhere. We’ll be back in this tournament sooner than later, and we intend to be a part of college basketball as we build the program.” Beard has had plenty of rebuilding to do in preparation for the 2019-20 season. Only three players return from the miraculous 2018-19 run. Junior Davide Moretti is the only returning starter along with sophomores Kyler Edwards and Avery Benson. They are joined by 10 newcomers. Moretti, a 6-3 sharpshooter from Bologna, Italy, averaged Texas Tech Red Raiders Roster Name, Height, Position, Class, Hometown Kyler Edwards, 6-4, G, Soph., Arlington, Texas Terrence Shannon, Jr., 6-6, G, Fr., Chicago, Illinois Clarence Nadolny, 6-3, G, Fr., Montreuil, France Jahmi’us Ramsey, 6-4, G, Fr., Arlington, Texas Joel Ntambwe, 6-8, F, Soph., Kinshasa, Congo Tyreek Smith, 6-7, F, Fr., Baton Rouge, Louisiana Andrei Savrasov, 6-7, F, Fr., Saint Petersburg, Russia Kevin McCullar, 6-6, G, Fr., San Antonio, Texas TJ Holyfield, 6-8, F, Sr., Albuquerque, New Mexico Avery Benson, 6-4, G, Soph., Springdale, Arkansas Davide Moretti, 6-3, G, Jr., Bologna, Italy Chris Clarke, 6-6, G, Sr., Virginia Beach, Virginia Russel Tchewa, 7-0, P, Fr., Douala, Cameroon Coach: Chris Beard Asst. Coaches: Mark Adams, Brian Burg, Ulric Maligi, Tim MacAllister, Sean Sutton 2018-2019 record: 31-7, 14-4 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Davide Moretti looks confident as he sets up a play against Gonzaga in the NCAA regional finals March 30 in Anaheim, California. The Red Raiders beat the Zags 75-69 to advance to the Final Four. (Texas Tech Athletics photo)

11.5 points and 2.4 assists a game last year while leading the nation with a 92.4 percent free throw percentage. Edwards, a 6-4 Arlington product, averaged 5.5 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.1 assists while playing in all of Tech’s 38 games. He scored 12 points in the national title contest. Benson, a 6-4 redshirt sophomore from Springdale, Arkansas, saw action in 20 games with a high of 5 points against Baylor. Gone are Jarrett Culver, the Lubbock Coronado graduate who left for the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves after his sophomore season; Matt Mooney, last year’s senior transfer from South Dakota, who accounted for 11.3 points; Tariq Owens, who was a senior transfer from St. John’s, averaged 8.7 points and 5.8 rebounds and blocked 92 shots; Brandone Francis, from the Dominican Republic via Florida, who scored 6.5 points a game; College

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Norense Odiase of Fort Worth, who averaged 4.2 points and 5.4 rebounds; and Deshawn Corprew, who averaged 5 points and 3.3 rebounds. And of course, those departing players were key cogs in a defense that deservedly drew the praise of TV commentators and opposing coaches. The defense was – and still is – directed expertly by assistant coach Mark Adams, the former head coach at Clarendon College, Wayland Baptist, West Texas A&M, UTPan American and Howard College. Beard said the Raiders have a chance to be strong defensively again. Beard and his staff already have proven they can rebuild, and the 2019-20 edition of the Red Raiders features much potential. The only seniors are TJ Holyfield and Chris Clarke, both graduate transfers. Holyfield is a 6-8 transfer from Stephen F. Austin, originally from Albuquerque. He scored 1,081 points, snagged 595 rebounds and blocked 134 shots in three seasons at SFA. He was the Southland Conference Tournament MVP as a junior before redshirting in 2018-19 because of an injury. Clarke contributed 9.2 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists at Virginia Tech before moving to Lubbock. ESPN ranked the 6-6 senior as the nation’s No. 8 graduate transfer. Texas Tech’s recruiters also rounded up sophomore Joel Ntambwe, a 6-8 forward from Kinshasa, Congo, who played in 31 games at UNLV; redshirt freshmen Andrei Savrasov, a 6-8 forward from St. Petersburg, Russia, and Kevin McCullar, a 6-6 guard from Converse Wagner; and true freshmen Terrence Shannon Jr., a 6-6 guard from Chicago Lincoln Park, Clarence Nodolny, a 6-4 guard from Montreuil, France, Jahmi’us Ramsey, a 6-4 guard from Duncanville, Tyreek Smith, a 6-8 forward from

Coach Chris Beard

Davide Moretti

Kyler Edwards

Avery Benson

TJ Holyfield

Chris Clarke

Joel Ntambwe

Andrei Savrasov

Kevin McCullar

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Kyler Edwards displays some of Texas Tech’s well-known defense in the NCAA national semifinals April 6 against Michigan State. Tech won 61-51 to advance to the national championship game. (Texas Tech Athletics photo)

Cedar Hill Trinity Christian, and Russel Tchewa, a 7-0 post from Douala, Cameroon. Tech’s recent success certainly has had an effect, as most of those recruits had offers from multiple outstanding Division 1 basketball programs. Clarke, Ramsey and Moretti all were named to the All-Big 12 honorable mention team, and the Basketball Hall of Fame named Moretti to the Bob Cousy Point Guard Award watch list. Clarke was named the Big 12 Preseason Newcomer of the Year and is one of 20 players nationwide on the watch list for the 2020 Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year Award. “I think your best recruiters are your current team, your past team,” Beard said. “So I think the success the past players have had the past couple of years absolutely has impacted recruiting in a good way.” He said he thinks all 13 players on the roster will contribute significantly. “I believe if a guy plays a lot of minutes, by the time you get to Christmas, you’re basically already a sophomore,” he said. “I’m a big believer in experience over age or classification on a roster. Yes, we’re a young team, but no excuse. We’re a no-excuse culture. We intend to be a part of the fight this year regardless of what classification guys we have on our roster.” After being picked seventh in the Big 12 Conference last year and finishing tied for first with Kansas State, the Red Raiders this time have been ranked third in the Big 12 by the league’s head coaches. Kansas is predicted to win the conference in 2019-20 with eight of 10 first-place votes. Baylor placed second, with the Bears and Raiders each receiving one first-place vote. Texas placed fourth in the poll, followed by West Virginia, Oklahoma State, Iowa State, Oklahoma, Kansas State and TCU. Coaches can’t vote for their own team. Tech arguably fared better in the preseason Associated Press Top 25, placing 13th nationally. Other ranked Big 12 teams were 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Kansas at No. 3 and Baylor at No. 16. Kentucky, which will visit Lubbock Jan. 25, held the No. 2 spot. The two teams that ended the Red Raiders’ seasons the past two years, Villanova and Virginia, sat at No. 10 and No. 11 respectively. No other Big 12 teams received votes. Beard said he expects leadership to come primarily from “our two seniors and our three returners.” Moretti, who had a big impact last season, believes that during the summer and on an August trip to the Bahamas, the essentially new team has bonded well. In the Bahamas, Tech split two exhibition games with Mega Bemax, a pro team from Belgrade, Serbia, “We are a team of hard-working guys,” Moretti said. I feel like everyone is buying in on the process and have started to trust each other. It’s important that we believe in each other all the time and continue pushing each other. We are an intense team and need to direct our energy in the right way to become who we want to be this season.” Beard expects improvement to progress through 2019-20. “I look for us to be a better team Dec. 1 than we are Nov. 1,” he said. “All the way, hopefully, to that first Monday in April.” Holyfield, one of the senior transfers, also is ready to lead. “This team is about culture, discipline and togetherness,” he said. “People can expect us to compete at everything we do and will be able to see the passion in our game when we play. We have to continue to hold ourselves to a higher standard and can’t put a limit on how good our team could be.” Beard agrees that this team already has above-average chemistry that includes trust between players. “We’re going to play for the guy next to us and not for the guy on the back of our jersey,” he said. Despite competing in possibly the strongest conference in the nation, Beard, Adams and basketball adviser Sean Sutton continue to upgrade the nonconference schedule. Last year, Tech played a competitive game in New York against Duke, among other tough opponents. “It’s always been our plan,” Beard said. “Like I said when I first got here, if we’re going to win the fight, we’ve got to get in the fight. We’ve won a couple of fights and came up a little bit short in the biggest fight of all, but part of that is playing the best people.” The 2019-20 schedule includes Iowa of the Big Ten Nov. 28 in Las Vegas, DePaul of the Big East Dec. 4 in Chicago, Louisville Dec. 10 in the Jimmy V Classic in New York and, a third of the way through the Big 12 schedule, a game that many Tech fans have marked on their calendars: Kentucky Jan. 25 at United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock. It will be hard to top the most successful season in Tech men’s basketball history. The Red Raiders raced through Avery Benson shoots a jumper in Texas Tech’s 2019 opener Nov. 5 the 2019 NCAA tournament, against Eastern Illinois. The Red defeating Northern Kentucky Raiders prevailed 85-60. (Texas Tech 72-57, Buffalo 78-58, MichiAthletics photo) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Terrence Shannon

Clarence Nadolny

Tyreek Smith

Jahmi’us Ramsey

Russel Tchewa

gan 63-44, Gonzaga 75-69 and Michigan State 61-51 before the overtime loss to Virginia in the national championship game. They were 17-1 playing in Lubbock, 14-4 in the Big 12 regular season and had a nine-game Big 12 win streak. Tech was the first

TEXAS TECH RED RAIDERS SCHEDULE Date Opponent Time Eastern Illinois TBA Nov. 5 Bethune-Cookman TBA Nov. 9 Houston Baptist @ Chaparral Center Midland TBA Nov. 13 Las Vegas Classic Regional Round Nov. 21 Tennessee State TBA Nov. 24 Long Island TBA Continental Tire Las Vegas Invitational Iowa @ Orleans Arena Las Vegas TBA Nov. 28 San Diego State or Creighton@ Orleans Arena TBA Nov. 29 Las Vegas Big 12-Big East Scheduling Alliance Dec. 4 DePaul @ Wintrust Arena Chicago, Illinois 7:30 p.m. Jimmy V Classic Dec. 10 Louisville @ Madison Square Garden N.Y. TBA Dec. 16 Southern Mississippi TBA Dec. 21 UTRGV TBA CSU Bakersfield TBA Dec. 29 Oklahoma State 11 a.m. Jan. 4 Baylor 8 p.m. Jan. 7 Jan. 11 West Virginia @ Morgantown, W. Va. 5 p.m. Kansas State @ Manhattan, Kansas TBA Jan. 14 Jan. 18 Iowa State 3 p.m. TCU @ Fort Worth 7 p.m. Jan. 21 Big 12/SEC Challenge Kentucky 5 p.m. Jan. 25 West Virginia TBA Jan. 29 Kansas @ Lawrence, Kansas TBA Feb. 1 Feb. 4 Oklahoma 8 p.m. Texas @ Austin TBA Feb. 8 Feb. 10 TCU 8 p.m. Oklahoma State @ Stillwater, Oklahoma 12 p.m. Feb. 15 Kansas State 8 p.m. Feb. 19 Iowa State @ Ames, Iowa 5 p.m. Feb. 22 Oklahoma @ Norman, Oklahoma 8 p.m. Feb. 25 Texas 11 a.m. Feb. 29 Mar. 2 Baylor @ Waco 8 p.m. Kansas 1 p.m. Mar. 7 Phillips 66 Big 12 Championships at Kansas City, Mar. 11-14 Missouri TBD

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Texas school to reach the NCAA final since Houston in 1984. The Red Raiders led the nation in defensive efficiency. They held 20 opponents to less than 60 points, and only six opponents scored more than 70 points on Tech. Fans appreciated it as home games averaged 12,098 in attendance, including four sellouts and more than 14,000 at seven of the games. Tech attendance was second in the Big 12 and 24th nationally. For two years in a row, Texas Tech’s season has ended against the national champion – Villanova in 2018 and Virginia in 2019. The Red Raiders plan on being in the biggest fight of all again.

Texas Tech Women

Lady Raiders have another new look By MIKE HAYNES Co-Publisher The Texas Tech Lady Raiders had a new look last year as head coach Marlene Stollings took the reins of a program in a slump. The 2018-19 edition had seven newcomers and just six returners. There’s another new look for 2019-20. In Stollings’ second season, she continues to mold the Lady Raiders into what she believes is the best look to return to national prominence. From last year’s initial roster, only four players return. The only 201819 senior, Zuri Sanders, has moved on, and eight underclassmen also have left. Stollings gave those leaving credit for helping jump-start the program after a 7-23 record and a 1-17 Big 12 mark in Candi Whitaker’s last year as coach. Last season’s numbers improved to 14-17 overall and 4-14 in the conference. “We came in here with the expectation of building this program back into a national power,” Stollings told reporters as fall practice began. “And that’s going to be season by season, class by class, recruiting class by recruiting class. We walk in here every day and we get chills looking up at the women’s basketball banners that dominate this arena, and we came here to do the exact same thing. This season, we have postseason in mind, whatever that looks like.” After the coach’s first season featured a culture change she called “The Movement,” this year’s theme will be “M2M,” or “Movement to March.” The quest for postseason play will feature two preseason All-Big 12 players who return: Brittany Brewer, the only senior, and sophomore Chrislyn Carr. Brewer, a 6-5 forward from Abilene Wylie, was listed Oct. 25 as one of 20 players nationwide on the Lisa Leslie Award watch list sponsored by the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association. Then she was named as one of 50 players on the watch list for the Women’s Citizen Naismith Trophy sponsored by the Atlanta Tipoff Club. Brewer averaged 16.6 points, 9.1 rebounds and 2.3 blocks a game last season, including 34 three-pointers after never having attempted a three in her first two collegiate seasons. Brewer led the Big 12 with 13 double-doubles and set a Big 44

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Lady Raiders Brittany Brewer, left, and Chrislyn Carr talk to the media on Big 12 Media Day in Kansas City on Oct. 22. (Texas Tech Athletics photo)

12 record for the first round of the conference tournament with 40 points and 15 rebounds in Tech’s 104-84 win over Oklahoma. She was one of five players in the country selected to the CoSIDA Academic All-America first team. Brewer was honorable mention All-Big 12 last year and won a silver medal playing with the U.S. Pan Am Games team this summer. She was one of two Big 12 players to make the team and was the first Lady Raider on the Pan Am squad in 24 years after Tech legend Sheryl Swoopes was on the team in 1995. Stollings said the international opportunity improved Brewer’s leadership skills. “Her experience with the Pan Am Games and getting to be part of USA Basketball really helped her grow and mature in the off-season,” Stollings said. “She is really committed to Tech and leaving a legacy here.” Carr, a 5-5 guard from Rock Island, Illinois, averaged 18 points a game last season and was named Big 12 Freshman of the Year. She made 78 three-pointers while starting 30 of Tech’s 31 games. This summer, she was the first Lady Raider in history to be invited to the USA Women’s U19 World Cup team trials in Colorado Springs. She was one of 30 players and one of six Big 12 freshmen to participate in the trials. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

“She’s got that big target on her back, getting Big 12 Freshman of the Year, and she, too, had that experience with USA Basketball, which I think helped her grow,” Stollings said. “But for her, it’s adding more versatility to her game, being more multi-dimensional. We want her to be a much better defender. She’s very capable, one of the fastest players in all of the Big 12.” Stollings said Sydney Goodson, a 5-8 junior guard, is the third key returning Lady Raider. In high school at Argyle’s Liberty Christian, Goodson led her team to two TAPPS Class 5A state titles. After her freshman year at Arizona State, she started 26 of 31 games for Tech as a sophomore, averaging 10.8 points and hitting 37.4 percent from the three-point line. Goodson led the team in three-point shooting and minutes played. The fourth returner is Andrayah Adams, a 5-10 junior guard who sat out 2018-19 after transferring from St. John’s. The Minneapolis native played in 65 of 68 games in two years at St. John’s. She amassed 3,000 points in high school. “She has a scorer’s mentality,” Stollings said. Maybe the most well-known name among Tech’s newcomers is Lexi Gordon, who transferred in the middle of last season from highly successful Connecticut. The 6-0 junior guard is a Texan, having played at Hurst Bell High School, where she is the all-time leading scorer. She was the 29th-ranked high school recruit in the country. Stollings said Gordon’s presence at Tech is a plus for recruiting. “Every recruit we talk to knows Lexi,” she said. “She was very nationally known coming out of high school; she’s from Texas. And she was at UConn, which is a big deal. In terms of our recruits and them knowing her and wanting to be part of that, we’ve had freshmen who want to room with her, things like that. It has elevated all our recruiting efforts having someone of her caliber.” Gordon’s parents both played basketball at TCU. As practice began, Stollings said Gordon was expected to miss six games before her transfer paperwork is finalized. “We’ve definitely added to the roster,” Stollings said. We needed to, and that’s been very positive for us. We’ll have more weapons on the perimeter, and it’s going to be harder for people to double Brittany, because we have positions 1 through 5 that can legitimately hit a three for us.”

Coach Marlene Stollings

Brittany Brewer

Chrislyn Carr

Sydney Goodson

Andrayah Adams

Lexi Gordon

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Sydney Goodson splits two Sooners on the way to the basket in Texas Tech’s 88-82 home win over Oklahoma on March 4. Four days later, the Lady Raiders broke several records as they defeated OU 104-84 in the Big 12 tournament in Kansas City. (Photo by Elise Bressler/Texas Tech Athletics)

Another transfer is Jada Walton, a 5-11 junior guard from Lithonia, Georgia, who played in 58 games at Texas A&M and was one of the Aggies’ leading scorers. The 2019-20 roster also includes Maka Jackson, a 5-8 junior transfer guard from South Georgia Tech originally from Manassas, Virginia; Jo’nah Johnson, a 5-9 junior transfer guard from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M originally from Santa Fe High in Edmond, Oklahoma; Emma Villas-Gomis, a 6-3 junior transfer forward from Salt Lake Community College originally from Fontenay-Sous-Bois, France; Nailah Dillard, a 5-10 freshman guard from Sacramento, California; and Alexis Tucker, a 5-11 freshman guard from Hawthorne, California. Stollings said the starting lineup probably won’t be set until December. “It will be competition by position, something we didn’t really have last year,” she said. “That’s going to be exciting to see who earns some of these positions.” Those who are pursuing positions elsewhere include two Texas Panhandle products, Angel Hayden of Canyon and Mia Castaneda of Hereford. Hayden has transferred to Angelo State for her junior season, and Castaneda is on the team at Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, for her senior year after two seasons at Clarendon College and one at Tech. Eryka Sidney, originally from Houston Wheatley, has become a Houston Cougar for her senior year. Stollings issued this statement when Hayden, Castaneda and Sidney left in March: “These student-athletes were an integral part of rebuilding from a seven-win season and a roster of six upon our arrival. We wish them the best in their future.” Erin DeGrate has moved to Baylor for one season as a graduate transfer; Emma Merriweather will be a redshirt sophomore at Kansas; Marcella Lamark dos Santos transferred to Pittsburgh, where she will have 1½ years of remaining eligibility; and Kiara College

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Shoals, who also has played at Frank Phillips College, will be a senior at UT-San Antonio. Tihana Stojsavljevic of Croatia, a sophomore last year who had transferred from Maine, also left the Lady Raiders. In addition, Erin Grant, who served as a Lady Raider assistant coach and recruiting coordinator last year, has departed for a position on the University of Southern California staff. Grant was an All-American guard for the Lady Raiders in 2006 and was inducted into the Texas Tech Hall of Fame in 2018. With the many changes, the Lady Raiders had some bonding to do entering the summer, and Stollings provided plenty of opportunities. She brought in Debbie Antonelli, the ESPN analyst who played under Kay Yow at North Carolina State, to speak to the team. The Lady Raiders attended a Dallas Wings WNBA game, and some took an October trip to the State Fair of Texas. Highlights of the 2019-20 calendar will include the San Diego Thanksgiving Tournament Nov. 29-30, which will include Purdue-Fort Wayne, San Diego and Monmouth, and a Dec. 4 home game against Ole Miss as part of the Big 12/SEC Challenge in addition to the rigorous Big 12 schedule. The longtime rivalry with Texas will resume Jan. 15 in Austin and Feb. 9 at United Supermarkets Arena, the Play4Kay Pink Game. And the Lady Raiders are planning for the season to continue past the March 12-15 Big 12 Tournament in Kansas City. Tech is scheduled to appear on television 10 times, all home games. Fans can expect Stollings’ up-tempo style of play to continue. She said the two necessary elements for that up-and-down pace are great rebounding, including by the guards, and the ability to shoot from the outside. “We have those things this year,” she said. “I think this group has a good chance of being good at it, for sure. We’re working to be great at it.”

Jada Walton

Maka Jackson

Jo’nah Johnson

Emma Villas-Gomis

Nailah Dillard

Alexis Tucker

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Texas Tech’s Chrislyn Carr slips past a Sooner in the Lady Raiders’ Big 12 home finale March 4. Tech defeated Oklahoma 88-82. Carr led the Lady Raiders in scoring in 2018-19, averaging 16.4 points. (Photo by Elise Bressler/Texas Tech Athletics)

TEXAS TECH LADY RAIDERS SCHEDULE Date Opponent Time Nov. 14 Sam Houston State TBA Nov. 18 Florida A&M TBA Nov. 22 Northwestern State TBA Nov. 29 Purdue Fort Wayne @ San Diego, California 4 p.m. Nov. 30 San Diego or Monmouth @ San Diego, California TBA Big 12/Sec Challenge Dec. 4 Ole Miss TBA Dec. 15 Houston Baptist TBA Dec. 17 Prairie View A&M 12 p.m. Dec. 20 Arkansas Pine Bluff TBA Dec. 22 Louisiana Monroe TBA Dec. 29 UTSA TBA Jan. 3 Iowa State TBA Jan. 8 TCU @ Fort Worth TBA Jan. 11 Kansas State TBA Jan. 15 Texas @ Austin TBA Jan. 18 Kansas @ Lawrence, Kansas TBA Jan. 22 Oklahoma TBA Jan. 25 Baylor @ Waco TBA Feb. 1 Oklahoma State TBA Feb. 5 Kansas State @ Manhattan, Kansas TBA Feb. 9 Texas TBA Feb. 12 Kansas TBA Feb. 15 West Virginia @ Morgantown, W. Va. TBA Feb. 18 Baylor TBA Feb. 23 Iowa State @ Ames, Iowa TBA Feb. 26 Oklahoma State @ Stillwater, Oklahoma TBA Mar. 1 TCU TBA Mar. 4 West Virginia TBA Mar. 7 Oklahoma @ Norman, Oklahoma TBA Mar. 12-15 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Tournament @ Kansas City, Missouri TBD

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Texas Tech Lady Raiders Roster Name, Height, Position, Class, Hometown Chrislyn Carr, 5-5, G, Soph., Davenport, Iowa Sydney Goodson, 5-8, G, Jr., Argyle, Texas Maka Jackson, 5-8, G, Jr., Manassas, Virginia Jo’Nah Johnson, 5-9, G, Jr., Edmond, Oklahoma Jada Walton, 5-11, G, Jr., Lithonia, Georgia Andrayah Adams, 5-10, G, Jr., Minneapolis, Minnesota Brittany Brewer, 6-5, G, Sr., Abilene, Texas Nailah Dillard, 5-10, G, Fr., Sacramento, California Emma Villas-Gomis, 6-3, F, Jr., Fortenay-Sous-Bois, France Lexi Gordon, 6-0, G, Jr., Hurst, Texas Alexis Tucker, 5-11, G, Fr., Hawthorne, California Coach: Marlene Stollings, Nikita Lowry Dawkins Asst. Coaches: Alysiah Bond, Malikah Willis 2018-2019 record: 14-17, 4-14

This sign at United Supermarkets Arena reminds fans of “The Movement,” the name new Texas Tech women’s coach Marlene Stollings assigned to the new culture for the Lady Raiders in 2018-19. In 2019-20, the new label is “M2M,” or “Movement to March.” (Photo by Mike Haynes)

West Texas A&M Men

Young Buffs look to keep it rolling By LANCE LAHNERT If West Texas A&M plans on making an encore appearance in the NCAA Division II men’s national basketball tournament, it will do so with new faces to the Buff faithful. Gone is Ryan Quaid, the three-time All-American and all-time leader in games played and rebounds. Gone is sharpshooter and defensive whiz Gach Gach, who nearly averaged three 3-pointers made a game last year. Gone is guard Brandon Hall, who logged a team-high minutes played and averaged 12.3 points a game last year. Quaid and Hall each started all 38 games for the 34-4 Elite Eight Buffs of a year ago, while Gach made 37 starts. That’s why sixth-year West Texas A&M head coach Tom Brown, he of the gaudy 130-39 record with the Buffs and schoolrecord, back-to-back Elite Eight appearances, said any story previewing the 2019-20 Buffs just wouldn’t be accurate without knowing, “It’s really going to be tough to replace those three in Gach, Ryan and Brandon.” “Think about it,” Brown said. “They started every game. They put up great stats, and they played great defense. And, most important, they were leaders on and off the court. That was three seniors. Right now, we don’t even have three upperclassmen playing.” West Texas will open its season at the prestigious invite-only SCB Hall of Fame Classic Nov. 1 in St. Joseph, Missouri, meeting Lincoln Memorial with four upperclassmen (seniors and juniors) on its 15-player roster. That means 11 freshmen and sophomores will make up the nucleus of the Buffs this year, a season that also sees a new 19team, 22-game Lone Star Conference schedule unfold starting Nov. 23, when WT will host Eastern New Mexico. “We do know the situation, and as coaches it’s our job to figure it out,” Brown said of getting the young Buffs ready to defend the LSC title that they claimed last year with a 17-1 record. “And we will figure it out.” The Buffs certainly have figured things out under Brown and his up-tempo, high-scoring style of play. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jordan Collins of West Texas A&M celebrates after cutting his strand of the net following the Buffs’ 89-71 win over St. Edward’s for the Division II South Central Region championship at First United Bank Center in Canyon. Collins returns as a senior in 2019-20. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

Two years ago, WT won 32 games and reached the Final Four for the first time in school history. Last year, WT set a school record for wins in a season at 34 and made the Elite Eight. WT will try for the rarest of sights – an Elite Eight threepeat – with the four upperclassmen of two familiar seniors in guards Jordan Collins and Eric Mosley, along with a Texas A&M junior transfer, 6-foot, 11-inch John Brown, and junior Marshal Johnson of Clarendon, who averaged two minutes of playing time a year ago. Mosley will be counted on for leadership as he is familiar with Brown’s system and averaged nearly 14 minutes a game, scoring 3.5 points per game. The cupboard is far from bare, thanks in part to quick maturation of last year’s freshman guards Qua Grant and Joel Murray. College

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Grant ranked second for the Buffs in scoring last year at 14.9 points a game and started all 38 games, while Murray started 34 games, averaging 11.7 points and dishing out a team-high 139 assists. “I was surprised by those two, yes,” Brown said. “Because it just doesn’t always happen to see that kind of development. We saw Qua in the summertime, and Coach (Quincy) Jordan Collins Henderson loved him. But there were other players out there as well. We were thrilled to get him. We got JoJo (Joel Murray) late. We didn’t see him all summer, but we had watched a lot of game film on him. “What surprised me most about those guys is how hard they work and how they listen. They don’t have egos. They aren’t prima-donnas. They are lunch pail guys who are going to get after you and play excellent defense.” Derrick Geddis, also a freshman last year, didn’t garner any starts but produced valuable minutes down the stretch off the bench and wound up averaging 10 minutes a game, scoring 2.9 points with 2.6 rebounds a game. “I think one thing that was special last year was the play of our freshmen,” Brown said. “JoJo and Qua, and even Derrick Geddis, those three guys, with JoJo and Qua starting almost every game and Derrick coming and giving us some huge minutes. “But that’s also one of our challenges this year. Everybody is telling these freshmen how good they are now that they are sophomores. Then you lose all this firepower in Gach, Ryan and Brandon; we only have four upper classmen, so we are very

Coach: Tom Brown (5th year, 130-39) Asst. Coaches: Chris Gove, Quincy Henderson 2018-2019 record: 34-4, 17-1

WT Buff Eric Mosley goes to the basket in a 109-95 victory over New Mexico Highlands in the NCAA Division II South Central Region quarterfinal game in March at First United Bank Center in Canyon. Mosley returns as a senior in 2019-20. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

young. Everybody is coming after those two guys this year. They need to understand that.” No doubt, the production of the Buffs’ inside players will have the most eyes on them early in the season. That’s because with the loss of three-time All-American Quaid in the post, the Buffs lose a school-record 140 games played and 15 points and eight boards per game from last year. “Ryan is irreplaceable,” Brown said. “He really is. He’s an All-American. He’s the all-time leading rebounder, all-time leader in games played and second all-time leading scorer behind David Chavlovich. When we needed a bucket, or a rebound, or even a defensive stop, he understood the game and worked so hard. He really put the time in to improve his game. We will really miss him. You can’t replace him.” Brown said several players have a chance to earn playing time in John Brown (the former walk-on at Texas A&M), Geddis, Mosley, 6-7 sophomore Ty Bryant of Lipan, and 6-6 freshman Hayden Blankley of Australia. “Right now we are figuring out how our inside game will look,” Tom Brown said. “It’s not going to be like last year without Ryan in there and his ability to shoot it and pass it. What’s going to be tough is we don’t have a lot of experience. We have Eric Mosley in there and Jordan Collins out front, but that’s it. We will have some growing pains early, but we will get it figured out. That’s a point of emphasis for us. “And it will be a combination of a lot of players. Like John Brown (no relation to coach Brown), Eric Mosley, Hayden Blankley, Derrick Geddis and Ty Bryant. Anybody with a little size. You may even see Qua Grant in the post a bit; there would be nothing wrong with that. The way we play I think can mix

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Qua Grant

Eric Mosley

Joel Murray

West Texas A&M Buffaloes Roster Name, Ht., Pos., Class, Hometown John Brown, 6-11, G, Jr., Magnolia, Texas Derrick Geddis, 6-4, G, Soph., Houston, Texas Qua Grant, 6-1, G, Soph., Waxahachie, Texas JT Warren, 6-3, G, Fr., Waxahachie, Texas Jon’il Fugett, 6-0, G, Soph., Denver, Colorado Jordan Collins, 5-11, G, Sr., Houston, Texas Kavon Booker, 6-6, G, Fr., Schertz, Texas Eric Mosley, 6-5, G, Sr., Gilbert, Arizona Joel Murray, 6-0, G, Soph., Rowlett, Texas Zach Toussaint, 5-10, G, Fr., Johnsburg, Illinois Jake Gerber, 6-4, G, Fr., Nazareth, Texas Hayden Blankley, 6-6, G, Fr., Sydney, Australia Cameron Bell, 5-10, G, Fr., Edmond, Oklahoma Marshal Johnson, 6-5, G, Jr., Clarendon, Texas Ty Bryant, 6-7, G, Soph., Lipan, Texas

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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that up quite a bit.” One young face familiar to Texas Panhandle fans in the Buff lineup will be perennial all-state player Jake Gerber of Nazareth, a 6-4 guard. So it’s a lot of new faces that will take the floor for the Buffs in 2019-20 as their task is continuing a 25-game home winning streak and defending the LSC title. The conference has completely changed with several new teams, and the 22 conference games will take up the majority of the Buffs schedule. West Texas A&M Coach Tom Brown Brown knows a target is takes an active role during WT’s on the Buffs’ back after earn- playoff win over New Mexico Highing back-to-back Elite Eight lands in Canyon. (Photo by Mike berths. He hopes the under- Haynes) classmen catch on quickly as to how tough each game will be. “I know the returning guys are very hungry,” Brown said. “I can’t speak for the incoming guys. But those guys are going to understand how hard you have to work and how much they have to pay attention to detail to get where we want to go. Right now we have a long ways to go. “We have some very talented young men, and we have a good work ethic right now. But we still have to learn what it takes to be a champion. I mean just to win the LSC back-to-back is really tough.” Brown said he has loved his time at WT since taking the job six years ago. And he loves the new look of the LSC. “I think it’s great, because you are going play 22 conference games that are D-II games and in-region games,” Brown said. “It would be nice to have a little bit more flexibility with scheduling, but that’s not a big deal. So I don’t think the new setup with conference changes us too much because, for instance, we always played Lubbock Christian home and away. The one thing I am going to miss is playing Texas-Commerce and Midwestern State twice in conference. We did schedule Midwestern a nonconference game. “It’s going to be fun. It is what is. And I’m looking at is as a positive.” On Oct. 30, the Lone Star Conference released its preseason poll that ranked WT No. 1 with 27 first-place votes and 826 points. St. Edward’s placed second with 14 first-place votes and 790 points. The rest of the conference followed in this order: Texas A&MCommerce, one first-place vote and 703 points; Tarleton, two first-place votes and 695 points; Angelo State, two first-place votes and 687 points; Dallas Baptist, one first-place vote and 642 points; Lubbock Christian, 558 points; UT-Permian Basin, 508 points; Eastern New Mexico, 484 points; Texas A&M-Kingsville, 423 points; Arkansas-Fort Smith, 340 points; Midwestern State, 327 points; St. Mary’s, 305 points; Cameron, 251 points; Oklahoma Christian, 251 points; UT-Tyler, 148 points; Texas A&M International, 120 points; and Western New Mexico, 102 points. Voters in the poll were conference head coaches, sports information directors and representatives of the media. 50

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WEST TEXAS A&M BUFFALOES SCHEDULE

Date Opponent SCB Hall of Fame Classic Nov. 1 Lincoln Memorial @ St. Joseph, MO Nov. 2 USC Aiken @ St. Joseph, MO Nov. 8 Adams State Nov. 9 Western Colorado Nov. 14 Midwestern State @ Wichita Falls Nov. 23 Eastern New Mexico WT Pak-A-Sak Thanksgiving Classic Nov. 29 Oklahoma Panhandle State Nov. 30 University of the Southwest Dec. 6 Oklahoma City Dec. 12 St. Edward’s @ Austin Dec. 14 St. Mary’s @ San Antonio Dec. 19 Oklahoma Christian Dec. 21 UAFS Jan. 4 Eastern New Mexico @ Portales, NM Jan. 9 UT Permian Basin @ Odessa Jan. 11 Western New Mexico @ Silver City, NM Jan. 16 Angelo State Jan. 18 Lubbock Christian Jan. 23 Texas A&M @ Kingsville Jan. 25 Texas A&M International @ Laredo Jan. 30 Western New Mexico Feb. 1 UT Permian Basin Feb. 6 @ Lubbock Christian Feb. 8 Angelo State @ San Angelo Feb. 13 Tarleton Feb. 15 Dallas Baptist Feb. 20 UT Tyler @ Tyler Feb. 22 @ Texas A&M Commerce Feb. 27 Midwestern State Feb. 29 Cameron 2020 Lone Star Conference Championship Mar. 3 LSC First Round - TBD Mar. 6 LSC Quarterfinals @ Frisco Mar. 7 LSC Semifinals @ Frisco Mar. 8 LSC Championship @ Frisco

Time

3:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m. 4 p.m. 5 p.m. 7 p.m. 4 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m. 11 a.m. 7:30 p.m. TBA 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. 5 p.m. 7:30 p.m. TBA 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. TBA 4 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. TBA TBA TBA TBA

In the top photo, WT’s Joel Murray drives against New Mexico Highlands at First United Bank Center. Below, Qua Grant goes downcourt against NMH as Jordan Collins follows. (Murray and Grant are sophomores in 2019-20. Collins is a senior. (Photos by Mike Haynes) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

West Texas A&M Women

Lady Buffs must overcome big blow By LANCE LAHNERT No excuses. When fifth-year West Texas A&M Lady Buffs coach Kristen Mattio takes her fan-favorite team through the 2019-20 season, there will be many days of riding the rollercoaster of emotions, experiencing the highs to the lows. Already the Lady Buffs were hammered with the worst news possible when heart-and-soul of the team guard Lexy Hightower, one of the top players in all of Division II women’s hoops, was injured in early November and likely won’t return until January, if at all. Hightower’s presence on the court is massive. The former Amarillo High star entered her senior season with the ultimate respect as the preseason Lone Star Conference player of the year, an honor voted on by coaches and media. Last year Hightower became the 22nd member of of the 1,000-career-point club of the historic West Texas A&M women’s program. Her 1,278 career points rank 15th on the all-time list. Mattio said Hightower’s presence and basketball IQ can’t be replaced, but these are the cards dealt the first half of the season. “When you have a player like Lexy on the floor, there is a peace and comfort there,” Mattio said. “She was the one who was going to lead us and take the big shot. That changes now, and we will have to have players step up. I believe they will. Our

Lexy Hightower of West Texas A&M heads toward the basket in the NCAA Division II South Central Region quarterfinals in March at First United Bank Center in Canyon. Hightower hit two free throws to complete the Lady Buffs’ comeback, 68-67. (Photo by Mike Haynes) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

philosophy is we play with no excuses.” The Lady Buffs are coming off an exceptional 29-4 season under Mattio, the seventh-straight 20-plus win season put in the books by the Lady Buffs. Counting Hightower, who averaged a team-high 16.2 points a game and canned 83 3-pointers, WT returns three seniors, two starters and two part-time starters with the development of strong post play in the spotlight. Senior 5-7 guard Megan Gamble played in – and started – 30 games last year, averaging 7.4 points while dishing out a team-high 164 assists. Sophomore 5-8 guard Delaney Nix was an improving machine throughout the West Texas A&M’s Megan Gamble fights through Eastern New Mexico season, playing all 33 games, defenders in the Lady Buffs’ 68-67 starting 17 and scoring 6.3 victory in the NCAA Division II points a game while tossing in South Central Region quarterfinals 46 3-pointers, good for second in March in Canyon. (Photo by Mike Haynes) on the team. Senior 5-10 guard Nathalie Linden of Stockholm, Sweden, started 11 games last year, averaging 4.9 points a game with her 58 assists, ranking fourth for WT. Sophomore 6-0 forward Braylyn Dollar from Lubbock Monterey didn’t start but saw time in all 33 games. Her 129 rebounds ranked fourth on the Lady Buffs, and she added 3.6 points a game. It’s easy to see why Mattio already likes “the culture of winning these players have and the way they play together as a team. At least for the first half without that voice of Lexy out there leading us, we will now have some of our younger players or sophomore and juniors play major roles. “For instance, I thought Braylyn Dollar and and Delaney Nix had a great freshmen seasons. Those are two kids that really work hard.” Mattio also knows that in the post, Tiana Parker and junior Abby Spurgin return. Parker suffered a season-ending injury in the opening game last year and redshirted. The 6-5 senior entered last year coming off an impressive season where she had a team-high 83 blocks and averaged 5.5 rebounds a game. “Tiana Parker has a great mind for the game and will navigate her time,” Mattio said. Spurgin played in all 33 games last year, averaging 17½ minutes of playing time, contributing in a big way with 8.4 points and 4.7 College

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rebounds a game. Her moment in the sun arrived at the perfect time when she earned the 2019 LSC Tournament Most Valuable Player honor, averaging 11 points, nine rebounds and seven blocks as WT claimed the program’s 15th LSC Tournament title. “Abby just got better and better as the season went along,” Mattio said. “I see her improving and helping us in a big way.” Look for 6-0 sophomore forward Mary Rose Foster to have a breakout season after playing in 11 games last year and taking a total of 13 shots. Foster is expected to see some starting time as the Frisco native was sponge last year learning the next level of play and has improved her overall game. Mattio and her Lady Buffs will experience a new-look Lone Star Conference with seven new teams joining for the 2019-20 season. And we aren’t talking gimme putts. The new teams joining the LSC are defending national champion Lubbock Christian, Oklahoma Christian, St. Edward’s, St. Mary’s, Texas A&M International, Arkansas-Fort Smith and UT-Tyler. The LSC will be comprised of three six-team divisions. Each team will play a home-away game within their division, then a single game against the other 12 conference teams. It also means the Lady Buffs will open LSC play on the early date of Nov. 23, hosting Eastern New Mexico. Mattio said the new teams will make the conference better overall, and “I like that we will be playing them twice in our division. It is a different schedule for us, and we have talked about needing to be ready early because we aren’t easing into the schedule.” Mattio said for the Lady Buffs to rack up their eighth consecutive 20-plus-win season and reach their ultimate goal of “winning a national championship, that’s always our goal,” they will have to be defensive minded, be strong in the transition game and learn their roles. Obviously, that’s happened in the past four seasons under Mattio; the Lady Buffs are an impressive 112-23 in that span. Mattio doesn’t take the role of leading the Lady Buffs lightly. “This is an honor to be coaching the Lady Buffs and representing all the players and coaches before us who built this program,” she said. “I don’t take a day for granted, and I’m thankful every day to have this opportunity. I love this job.”

Asha Scott, a WT freshman last season, prepares to go up to the hoop in the NCAA Division II South Central Region quarterfinals against ENMU in March. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

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Coach Kristen Mattio

Lexy Hightower

Nathalie Linden

Megan Gamble

Tiana Parker

West Texas A&M Lady Buffs Roster Name, Ht., Pos., Class, Hometown Asha Scott, 5-8, G, Soph., Washington, D.C. Megan Gamble, 5-7, G, Sr., Omaha, Nebraska Lexy Hightower, 5-8, G, Sr., Amarillo, Texas McKauley Gregory, 5-9, G, Fr., Lubbock, Texas Delaney Nix, 5-8, G, Soph., Tahlequah, Oklahoma Nathalie Linden, 5-10, G, Sr., Stockholm, Sweden Sienna Lenz, 5-8, G, Soph., Chilliwack, British Columbia Tiana Parker, 6-5, P, Sr., Chehalis, Washington Daria Cosgrove, 5-9, G, Jr., Plano, Texas Braylyn Dollar, 6-0, F, Soph., Lubbock, Texas Klara Dolk, 5-11, G, Fr., Stockholm, Sweden Ella Felkins, 6-2, F, Soph., Spring, Texas Abby Spurgin, 6-2, P, Jr., Fredricksburg, Texas Mary Rose Foster, 6-0, F, Soph., Frisco, Texas Coach: Kristen Mattio, 5th year (112-23) Asst. Coaches: Camille Perkins, Kristian Branson; Wade Whaley, student assistant 2018-2019 record: 29-4, 17-3

Braylyn Dollar, then a freshman, handles the ball for the Lady Buffs in the NCAA Division II South Central Region quarterfinals win over ENMU in March. (Photo by Mike Haynes) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

WEST TEXAS A&M LADY BUFFS SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Time 2019 D2CCA Tipoff Classic Nov. 1 Cal Ply Pomona @ Anaheim, California 3 p.m. Nov. 2 Drury @ Anaheim, California 12:45 p.m. Nov. 3 University of Mary @ Anaheim, California 10:30 a.m. Nov. 8 @ UC-Colorado Springs, Colorado 6:30 p.m. Nov. 9 Regis @ Denver, Colorado 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16 East Central 6 p.m. Nov. 23 Eastern New Mexico 2 p.m. WT Pak-A-Sak Thanksgiving Classic Nov. 29 Eastern NM vs. CSU Pueblo Nov. 29 Adams State Nov. 30 Eastern NM vs. Adams State Nov. 30 Colorado State Pueblo Dec. 5 Oklahoma Panhandle State Dec. 12 St. Edward’s @ Austin Dec. 14 St. Mary’s @ San Antonio Dec. 19 Oklahoma Christian Dec. 21 Arkansas – Fort Smith Jan. 4 Eastern New Mexico @ Portales, NM Jan. 9 UT Permian Basin @ Odessa Jan. 11 Western New Mexico @ Silver City, NM Jan. 16 Angelo State Jan. 18 Lubbock Christian Jan. 23 @ Texas A&M Kingsville Jan. 25 Texas A&M International @ Laredo Jan. 30 Western New Mexico Feb. 1 UT Permian Basin Feb. 6 @ Lubbock Christian Feb. 8 Angelo State @ San Angelo Feb. 13 Tarleton Feb. 15 Texas Woman’s Feb. 20 @ UT Tyler Feb. 22 @ Texas A&M Commerce Feb. 27 Midwestern State Feb. 29 Cameron 2020 Lone Star Conference Championship Mar. 5 LSC Quarterfinals @ Frisco Mar. 6 LSC Semifinals @ Frisco Mar. 8 LSC Championship @ Frisco

12 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 12 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. TBD 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 3 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. TBD TBD TBD

Nathalie Linden of West Texas A&M powers between an ENMU defender and the end line at First United Bank Center in March. The product of Stockholm, Sweden, is a senior in 2019-20. (Photo by Mike Haynes) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

The second of two successful free shots goes in for Lexy Hightower after she was fouled with .7-second left against Eastern New Mexico in the NCAA Division II South Central Region quarterfinals at First United Bank Center in Canyon. Her two shots gave West Texas A&M a 68-67 comeback win over ENMU. Hightower scored 25 points for the No. 16-ranked Lady Buffs. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

WT’s Abby Spurgin rises to the basket with about three minutes left in the playoff game against Eastern New Mexico in March at First United Bank Center. The Fredericksburg graduate is a junior this season. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

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Lubbock Christian Men

Chaps have tough tasks in new league By DAVE WOHLFARTH Lubbock Christian and most of the other teams from the Heartland Conference are merging into the Lone Star Conference for this basketball season. That results in 18 teams playing 22 conference games. Chaps Coach Todd Duncan can’t imagine a tougher Division II conference, from top to bottom, in the country. “I compare it to like the SEC in football, you know,” he said. “Even when you get a game you think you might win, it’s still a really good program.” Duncan mentioned that LCU has played many LSC teams in close proximity in the past but that now the Chaps will see some new opponents. “We’re familiar with most of the teams — the schools that are around here — and the reason we’ve played them is because they’re so good,” he said. “I just think it’s going to be really fun. It will be a challenge to play all the different styles.” One of the Lone Star teams LCU has played regularly is West Texas A&M. The Chaps split two meetings with the Buffs last season. WT went on to a 34-4 season, which included a South Central Region championship and an appearance in the Elite Eight. “We were fortunate to get that win over them,” Duncan said of the Chaps’ 68-65 win in Lubbock. “That gives us some confidence. You know you’re right there, knocking at the door. That’s why we’ve always scheduled those tougher teams in nonconference.” This season, LCU and WT will play twice in conference. The Chaps did knock on the door last season. Their 21-10 record matched their best overall record since their move into the NCAA Division II ranks four years ago. They were third in the now-defunct Heartland Conference with an 11-5 mark but won 10 of their last 12 games. They were 15-1 at Rip Griffin Center in Lubbock. They won their first game in the South Central Region tournament before losing 93-80 to St. Edward’s in the semifinals. So they wound up in the final 32 in the nation. Lubbock Christian Chaps Roster Name, Ht., Pos., Class, Hometown Aamer Muhammad, 6-0, G, Fr., Rio Rancho, New Mexico Parker Hicks, 6-6, F, Jr., Decatur, Texas Cameron Copley, 5-9, G, Soph., Canadian, Texas Kobe Thompson, 6-5, F/G, Jr., Leander, Texas Rashaan Proctor, 6-5, F, Sr., Ruston, Louisiana Ty Caswell, 6-5, G/F, Fr., Wichita Falls, Texas Silas Crisler, 6-3, G, Soph., Anderson, South Carolina Cade McDowell, 6-11, F, Soph., Nashville, Tennessee Zach Stepp, 6-5, F, Jr., Lubbock, Texas Rowan Mackenzie, 6-3, G, Fr., Perth, Australia Lloyd Daniels, 6-4, G, Jr., Colts Neck, New Jersey Joshua Davey, 6-6, F, Soph., Perth, Australia Karhan Jones, 6-2, G, Fr., Mansfield, Texas Coach: Todd Duncan Asst. Coach: Jason Imes 2018-2019 record: 21-10, 11-5 54

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Rashaan Proctor completes a dunk for Lubbock Christian. The 6-5 senior from Ruston, Louisiana, started 25 games last year and blocked 22 shots. (LCU Media Relations photo)

“I think it was one of our better years. I was proud of our guys,” Duncan said. “We played some of the top teams in the country. We had five wins against top 10 teams. To make the tournament, win a game and be one of the last 32 teams playing . . . It was great for those kids.” Two of those kids — seniors Brennen Fowler and Isaac Asrat – were all-conference selections. Fowler, a 6-7, 270-pound forward, was Mr. Inside. He led the Chaps in scoring (19.2 points per game), rebounds (10.4 per game) and blocked shots (50 for the season). Asrat, a 6-1 guard, was Mr. Outside. He was second in scoring (16.4 ppg) and connected on 56 shots from 3-point range. “When you see 40 points walk out the door, you’ve got to find ways to replace that,” Duncan said. “We’ll be less dependent on two guys, but all our guys, playing up to their capabilities, can help cover that.” Fowler and Asrat were senior starters and led the Chaps in minutes played. Also gone from last year’s team are Jay Workman, Ja’Qualyn Gilbreath (from Palo Duro), Jerrod Fowler (Brennen Fowler’s brother from Smyer), Kentton Williams, Spencer Sutton and Brandon Burrell for various reasons. Only Workman and Gilbreath saw much action. Returnees Rashaan Proctor, Cameron Copley and Kobe Thompson all started some games last year. Proctor is a 6-5 senior forward from Ruston, Louisiana, by 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

way of New Mexico Military Institute. He contributed 9 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 22 blocks last season, starting 25 games. “He’s got to be our leader,” Duncan said. “He’s got the most experience of the guys coming back. He’s an all-conference talent.” Copley, a 5-9 redshirt sophomore guard from Canadian, made 23 starts (3.8 ppg, 2.7 rpg) and led the Chaps in assists with 129 (4.6 apg). “He’s a winner, he’s savvy, he makes winning plays, he knows how to win,” Duncan said. “He’s invaluable in all the intangibles.” The coach described Thompson, a 6-4 junior guard/forward from Leander, (14 games started, 5.4 ppg, 2.5 rpg) as a jack of all trades. “He can handle the ball, he can play both spots, he’s versatile,” Duncan said. “In some of those big wins we had, he was kinda our third scorer. He’s kind of a role player who steps up and does a little more.” Duncan indicated he has about six or seven potential starters. In addition to Proctor, Copley and Thompson, he listed Parker Hicks, Ty Caswell, Silas Crisler and Lloyd Daniels. All but Crisler are newcomers to LCU. Hicks is a 6-6 junior forward from Decatur who transferred from Texas Tech. He didn’t play much for Tech the past two seasons, but Duncan expects him to be a major contributor for the Chaps. Caswell has some height, too. The 6-5 true freshman guard/ forward from Wichita Falls Rider had a lot of Division I offers, according to Duncan. “He’s a kid that we like not only this year but in future years,” he said. “He’s a very intelligent player.” Crisler is a 6-3 redshirt sophomore guard from Anderson, South Carolina. He started eight games and logged the fifth highest number of playing minutes (567) last year. He stats included 6.1 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 44 3-pointers. Most impressive was a team-high 38.9 shooting percentage from beyond the arc. “He’s a great shooter, the guy most teams cannot drop off of,” Duncan said. “He can stretch the court and open it up for the other guys.” Daniels is a transfer from Murray State Junior College in Oklahoma, where he was an all-conference selection averaging 18 ppg. The 6-4 junior guard played his high school ball at Colts Neck, New Jersey. “He was highly recruited,” Duncan said. “We’re fortunate to have him, and we need him to be one of our main guys.” The Chaps have some depth in returning 6-5 redshirt junior forward Zach Stepp (Lubbock Coronado) and 6-0 freshman guard Aamer Muhammad (Rio Rancho, New Mexico). Then there’s the Australian Connection — 6-6 sophomore Cameron Copley walks the ball down the court for the LCU Chaps. forward Joshua Davey and The 5-9 redshirt sophomore from 6-3 freshman guard Rowan Canadian totaled 129 assists last seaMackenzie, both from Perth. son while starting 23 games. (LCU Mackenzie is slated to redshirt. Media Relations photo) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Coach Todd Duncan

Rashaan Proctor

Cameron Copley

Kobe Thompson

Parker Hicks

Ty Caswell

Silas Crisler

Lloyd Daniels

Zach Stepp

Duncan defines his team’s strength as toughness. “Those guys who are coming back but also guys like Parker (Hicks) and Lloyd (Daniels) who have shown the desire to contribute and be part of a winning program,” he said.

LUBBOCK CHRISTIAN CHAPS SCHEDULE Date Opponent Time Nov. 8 Regis University @ Golden, Colorado 6 p.m. Nov. 9 Colorado School of Mines @ Golden, Colorado 8 p.m. Nov. 14 Randall University 7 p.m. Nov. 23 Angelo State University @ San Angelo 3 p.m. Nov. 29 University of the Southwest New Mexico 5 p.m. Nov. 30 Oklahoma Panhandle State University 5 p.m. Dec. 5 Dallas Baptist University 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 Tarleton State University 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19 Cameron University @ Lawton, Oklahoma 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21 Midwestern State University @ Wichita Falls 4 p.m. Jan. 2 Western New Mexico University 7:30 p.m. Jan. 4 Texas Permian Basin 3 p.m. Jan. 11 Angelo State University 3 p.m. Jan. 16 Eastern New Mexico University @ Portales, NM 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18 West Texas A&M University @ Canyon 4 p.m. Jan. 23 St. Mary’s University 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25 St. Edward’s University 3 p.m. Jan. 30 @ Texas A&M University Commerce 7:30 p.m. Feb. 1 University of Texas @ Tyler 4 p.m. Feb. 6 West Texas A&M University 7:30 p.m. Feb. 8 Eastern New Mexico University 3 p.m. Feb. 13 University of Arkansas @ Fort Smith, Ark. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15 Oklahoma Christian University @ Okla. City, OK TBA Feb. 20 Texas A&M International University 7:30 p.m. Feb. 22 Texas A&M University – Kingsville 3 p.m. Feb. 27 Texas Permian Basin @ Odessa TBA Feb. 29 Western New Mexico University @ Silver City 4 p.m. Mar. 5-8 Lone Star Conference @ Frisco TBA

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In some aspects, the departed Brennen Fowler and Asrat are irreplaceable, but Duncan sees a solution. “Last year we knew we had Brennen in the paint. Proctor is a different type of player, but he can shoulder some of the scoring that Brennen produced,” Duncan said. “Asrat was a playmaker and could create off the dribble. Crisler is more capable of shooting from a productive standpoint.” Duncan knows a little something about shooting 3-pointers. The Lubbock Coronado graduate played alongside Mookie Blaylock at Midland College. At Midland, Duncan set singleseason records for 3-point shooting percentage (.584) and free throw shooting (.869) in the 1986-87 season. He transferred to Texas Tech and played two seasons with the Red Raiders, knocking down 132 3-pointers and establishing a Tech career record (46 percent) in long-range shooting. Duncan is beginning his ninth season at the Chaps’ helm. His LCU teams have won 137 and lost 91. Previously he coached for 15 years at Lubbock’s Trinity Christian High School. His Lions won the state TAPPS championship in 1999 and reached the TAPPS final four eight times. His Trinity Christian teams won more than 400 games. Duncan still has a connection to Trinity Christian. His son, Ethan, a junior, was the district MVP and second-team all-state last season for the Lions. His daughter Ashton, who also starred at TC, now is a sophomore on the LCU women’s team. Because of the necessity of scheduling both men’s and women’s games on the same nights in the expanded LSC, that creates an opportunity for Coach Duncan. “I’ll get to see her play more,” he said.

Aamer Muhammad

Joshua Davey

Cade McDowell

Rowan Mackenzie

Karhan Jones

Lubbock Christian Women

Lady Chaps reload after 2nd NCAA title By DAVE WOHLFARTH Allie Schulte succinctly summed up last year’s NCAA Division II championship and her outlook for this season. “It was fun,” she said. “We want to do it again.” Schulte, a 5-10 junior guard from Nazareth, is one of three returning starters for the Lady Chaps, who won the Heartland Allie Schulte Conference championship in its final season. LCU prevailed in the Heartland with a 13-1 league record last season and wound up 32-5 overall. And, of course, the national title with a 95-85 double overtime victory over Southwestern Oklahoma State in the finals. Schulte, 5-6 senior guard Caitlyn Cunyus from Canyon and 6-2 senior forward Maddi Chitsey from Wall were paramount in LCU’s run to its second national championship in four years. They’ll be even more important as the Lady Chaps enter the Lone Star Conference this season. 56

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Caitlyn Cunyus

Maddi Chitsey

Juliana Robertson

Olivia Robertson and Bobbi Chitsey (Maddi’s sister) were the two seniors on last year’s team and were vital cogs as starters. Robertson was the Lady Chaps’ leading scorer at 14.4 points per game and top rebounder at 6.3 per game. Bobbi Chitsey contributed 8.9 ppg and 4.4 rpg. They’ll certainly be missed. But LCU Coach Steve Gomez has a theory about departing seniors. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

“Every year, you have seniors and you go, ‘Oh, I’m going to miss those kids,’ and every year the next ones step up,” he said. “We never are happy to see kids go, but it’s just a cycle of sports. So while we loved them and we appreciated them, we just have to find a way to do it differently this year without them.” He’s counting on Maddi Chitsey, Schulte and Cunyus to be the next ones to step up. Maddi Chitsey averaged 13.6 points and 5.5 rebounds last season. She posted a double-double in last spring’s championship game with 22 points and 13 rebounds. And she made the clutch 3-pointer that sent the game into a second overtime. “She just continues to improve every year,” Gomez said. “She’s got a big, long, strong body and she can shoot the 3-point shot well. She uses both hands well to score. Just a great teammate — someone who’s always trying to find a way to help her team.” Gomez described Schulte as a multiple, versatile threat. Schulte led the team in total assists, averaging 3 per game, to go along with 10.4 ppg and 3 rpg. She also shot better than 50 percent from 3-point range with a 59-of-114 connection rate. “She can shoot; she can score on the basket,” he said. “She’s athletic enough to run the floor; she rebounds well. She’s one of our best defenders. She anticipates.” Cunyus (6 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 3 apg) is not physically impressive, according to her coach. “She’s just brilliant. She’s just one of those kids . . . I mean, physically you might look at her and see a kid and wonder, ‘How can she play? She’s not fast; she’s not tall.’ She just gets it done,” Gomez said. “She can score, but she’s gonna make the right play. And she’s just a great leader. She helps her teammates, gets them where they should be. She can score in multiple ways. Her mind is wise beyond her years.” Julianna Robertson, younger sister of the departed Olivia Robertson, provided some vital minutes off the bench last year. The 5-10 junior forward from Kerrville contributed 4.7 ppg, 3.9 rpg as a sophomore. “She’s really scrappy, just finds ways to make plays on offense, defense, just hustles,” Gomez said. “She’s one of those kids you just love to have on your team because they’re going

Coach Steve Gomez

Madelyn Turner

Laynee Burr

Emma Middleton

Ashton Duncan

Channing Cunyus

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Allie Schulte of Lubbock Christian shoots a layup against North Georgia in the NCAA Division II quarterfinals March 26 at Columbus, Ohio. The Lady Chaps won 99-54 as Schulte scored 12 points. (LCU Media Relations photo)

to do all the dirty work.” He mentioned some others expected to play bigger roles this season: Sweet-shooting Maddi Turner (3.2 ppg), a 5-8 junior guard from Abernathy, whom Gomez described as having “a little pop to her” in her playing style; Laynee Burr (2.6 ppg), a 5-9 sophomore guard from Stratford, is the team’s best athlete in terms of speed, strength and jumping ability, according to her coach; Emma Middleton (3.2 ppg, 2 rpg), a 6-1 junior forward from the Lubbock home-schooled Titans, played a lot last year and should be a strong presence inside; Ashton Duncan (3.5 ppg), a 5-9 junior from Lubbock Trinity Christian and daughter of LCU Men’s Coach Todd Duncan, made 26 3-pointers last season and has improved her ability to drive, according to Gomez; Channing Cunyus (2.3 ppg), a 5-9 sophomore from Canyon and younger sister of Caitlyn Cunyus, has a lot of savvy to her game; “Sometimes it doesn’t make sense, but she gets it done,” Gomez said. Four newcomers may figure into the Lady Chaps’ plans this season. Courtney Andersen, a 6-0 sophomore guard, is a transfer from Eastern Arizona College. “She was a real good player for them,” Gomez said, “and as she progresses, she can really help us this year.” The three freshmen are 6-1 forward Whitney Cox from Flower Mound, 5-9 guard Savannah Sumrall from Wellington and 5-9 guard Brylee Winfrey from Canyon. Winfrey gives LCU three College

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players from Canyon, continuing a long tradition of former Lady Eagles on LCU teams. Gomez is beginning his 17th season and owns a 397-122 collegiate coach record for a .765 winning percentage. His record in the now-defunct Heartland Conference (118-17 for .874) is even more impressive. Before LCU switched its affiliation to the NCAA, he led the Lady Chaps to 10 consecutive appearances in the NAIA Division I Women’s national championship tournament. In the school’s first year of NCAA eligibility, his Lady Chaps went 35-0 and captured the 2015-16 Division II crown. Gomez is coaching at his college alma mater. He was a standout guard for the Chaps in the late 1980s and still holds the school record for career free throw percentage at .855. His coaching philosophy centers on bringing out the best character traits and physical abilities of his players. A byproduct, then, is those players making the correct decisions on the court. “We’re just going to have to make great decisions, because we’re not necessarily just way bigger than people and we’re not faster than people,” Gomez said. “Most years that we have success, we take the right shots and shoot a high percentage.” It’s difficult to determine the Lady Chaps’ strengths this early in the season. “Going into last year, we thought defense was going to be a challenge for us, and we ended up being one of the top defensive teams (yielding 52.8 points per game) in the country,” he said. This season, Gomez does have a concern about turnovers and how they hinder his defense. “We’ll struggle if we turn the ball over much because our defense is good when we are set up in half-court. But if we’re throwing the ball away and people are just running up and shooting, I think any team’s going to struggle,” he said. “Some teams want the game going up and down fast and crazy, so turnovers to them are not great, but they don’t affect them as much. That type of play for us is almost more dangerous than it is ever helpful.” His teams don’t gamble much on defense, nor do they often press. “We’re not incredibly mobile,” he explained, “so the wider we spread out, the more trouble we’re going to create for ourselves.” Gomez stressed team unity as a key for success this season. “People embracing their roles and fulfilling their roles,” he said. “So the scorers need to score, the cheerers need to cheer. We just need to stay unselfish the whole time.” The Lady Chaps were scheduled to open play with three exhibition games against Division I teams — Texas, Baylor and Mississippi State — in October and early November.

Maddi Chitsey passes the ball during the 2019 NCAA Elite Eight tournament in Columbus, Ohio. (LCU Media Relations photo)

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College

Courtney Andersen

Whitney Cox

Brylee Winfrey

Savannah Sumrall

Taylor Stevenson

Lubbock Christian Lady Chaps Roster Name, Ht., Pos., Class, Hometown Ashton Duncan, 5-9, G, Jr., Lubbock, Texas Caitlyn Cunyus, 5-6, G, Sr., Canyon, Texas Taylor Stevenson, 5-11, G, Jr., Prosper, Texas Emma Middleton, 6-1, F, Jr., Lubbock, Texas Laynee Burr, 5-9, G, Soph., Stratford, Texas Savannah Sumrall, 5-9, G, Fr., Wellington, Texas Madelyn Turner, 5-8, G, Jr., Abernathy, Texas Channing Cunyus, 5-9, G, Soph., Canyon, Texas Allie Schulte, 5-10, G, Jr., Nazareth, Texas Juliana Robertson, 5-10, F, Jr., Kerrville, Texas Brylee Winfrey, 5-9, G, Fr., Canyon, Texas Maddi Chitsey, 6-2, F, Sr., Wall, Texas Courtney Andersen, 6-0, G, Soph., Spanish Fork, Utah Whitney Cox, 6-1, F, Fr., Flower Mound, Texas Coach: Steve Gomez Asst. Coaches: Vic Self, Kaycie Wilson 2018-2019 record: 32-5, 13-1 Gomez likes to schedule those exhibitions against DI teams. Most notably, his 2015-16 team lost by 56 points to powerful UConn but then never lost again. And his past teams have scored wins over Houston, Texas Tech and SMU. “Oh yeah, I love it,” Gomez said of the exhibitions. “It’s awesome when we get a chance to do those things.” After an early season tournament in Colorado, the real business for the Lady Chaps begins Nov. 23 when they travel to Angelo State for their first Lone Star Conference game. The Heartland and LSC teams have merged into one big conference with 18 women’s basketball teams. The Lady Chaps will play 22 LSC games, playing 12 teams once and five teams — West Texas A&M, Eastern New Mexico, Tarleton State, Western New Mexico and UT-Permian Basin — twice. “Really, it’s the same teams we play either in the preseason or the postseason,” Gomez said. “It’s just there’s more good teams. It’s just a big, tough conference. Whoever wins will have to survive.” The Lady Chaps hope to be the survival of the fittest. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

LUBBOCK CHRISTIAN LADY CHAPS SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Exhibition Game Oct. 28 Texas @ Austin Oct. 30 Baylor @ Waco Nov. 4 Mississippi State @ Starkville, Mississippi Nov. 8 CSU – Pueblo @ Pueblo, Colorado Nov. 9 Metropolitan State of Denver @ Pueblo, CO Arbor Hotels Classic (Hosted by LCU) Nov. 15 UC-Colorado Springs Nov. 16 Southwestern Oklahoma State Nov. 23 Angelo State @ San Angelo St. Mary’s Thanksgiving Classic Nov. 29 Southern Nazarene @ San Antonio Nov. 30 Central Oklahoma @ San Antonio Dec. 5 Dec. 14 Dec. 19 Dec. 21 Jan. 2 Jan. 4 Jan. 11 Jan. 16 Jan. 18 Jan. 23 Jan. 25 Jan. 30 Feb. 1 Feb. 6 Feb. 8 Feb. 13 Feb. 15 Feb. 20 Feb. 22 Feb. 27 Feb. 29 Mar. 5

Texas Woman’s Tarleton State Cameron @ Lawton, Oklahoma Midwestern State @ Wichita Falls Western New Mexico Texas – Permian Basin Angelo State Eastern New Mexico @ Portales, NM West Texas A&M St Mary’s St. Edward’s @ Texas A&M – Commerce @ Texas – Tyler West Texas A&M Eastern New Mexico Arkansas @ Fort Smith, Arkansas @ Oklahoma Christian, Oklahoma City, OK Texas A&M International Texas A&M – Kingsville Texas Permian Basin @ Odessa Western New Mexico @ Silver City, NM Lone Star Conference Tournament @ Frisco

Time TBA TBA TBA

6:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 3 p.m. TBA

Emma Middleton eyes the basket during Lubbock Christian’s 91-43 win over Texas A&M International in the Heartland Conference tournament March 7 in Tulsa. (LCU Media Relations photo)

Lady Chap Caitlyn Cunyus is in a good mood as LCU defeats North Georgia 99-54 in the NCAA Division II quarterfinals March 26 at Columbus, Ohio. (LCU Media Relations photo)

Wayland Men

All-American Culver to lead Pioneers By KEVIN LEWIS There was a lot to like about the Wayland Baptist Pioneers in 2018-19. Coach Ty Harrelson’s team captured the program’s first-ever Sooner Athletic Conference regular-season title, secured the program’s highest national ranking (No. 5) in at least the past 25 years and advanced to the NAIA National Tournament for the fifth time in six years. The disappointing part came when the Pioneers lost their first game in the conference tournament, then repeated that formula at the national tourney in Kansas City a year after advancing to the national quarterfinals. The 2019-20 version of the Pioneers will feature a handful of holdovers from a year ago with a lot of new faces. Two-thirds of Harrelson’s roster are new to the Wayland campus. “We will rely heavily on the experience of four veteran players – J.J. Culver, Jack Nobles, CJ Obinwa and Tre Fillmore – to lead our team this season. And I believe we have recruited a strong group of players who will be a great supporting cast,” said Harrelson, last year’s SAC Coach of the Year who in four seasons at Wayland has forged an 88-43 record for a .671 winning percentage. Wayland will miss the contributions of last season’s four 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Coach Ty Harrelson

Jack Nobles

J.J. Culver

Tre Fillmore

CJ Obinwa

seniors, especially high-flying NAIA honorable mention AllAmerican guard Trevonta Robertson, who averaged 17.2 points College

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and 4.6 rebounds and led the team in minutes played (32.9 per game). Also gone are honorable mention all-conference pick Josh Throns, the team’s third-leading scorer (12.7 ppg) and top 3-point threat, and the inside presence provided by Rokas Mazionis and Spencer Lindsey. Harrelson is thrilled to have Culver back, and who wouldn’t be? The 6-foot-5 Lubbock Coronado product does it all. After he led the team and ranked in the top 10 in the conference in scoring (17.6 ppg), rebounds (6.6), assists (3.0) and steals (1.8), Culver was named SAC Player of the Year and NAIA First-Team All-American. “J.J. has a chance to be the best player ever at Wayland,” Harrelson said. That’s saying something for the Culver family, which also produced Jarrett Culver, who left Texas Tech after his sophomore year and now wears the colors of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Other starters returning are seniors Jack Nobles (Trophy Club) and CJ Obinwa (Arlington). Nobles, a 6-foot-6 power forward, averaged almost nine points and close to five rebounds a game to earn honorable mention all-conference accolades, while Obinwa, a guard, was good for 6.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Junior guard Tre Fillmore (Amarillo Palo Duro) also returns and figures to boost his numbers from a year ago of 5.2 point and 1.8 boards. The Pioneers added a couple of shot blockers, which Harrelson said “seemed to be a missing piece last year.” The shot swatters are 6-foot-11 Deng Bol Yol, a native of Uganda who transferred to Wayland from Monroe College in New York, and 6-8 Jibrael Washington of Waco by way of Temple College. Of his five freshmen, Harrelson is most excited so far about point guard Payton Havens of Washington, Illinois. In addition, Jordan Brannon (Lubbock Trinity Christian), a 6-3 guard, and Bonny Udoh (Amarillo Palo Duro), a 6-5 forward, “look to be valuable additions as they enter their freshman year of competition.” Rounding out the roster are junior holdover guard Reese Puckett (Vernon); 6-5 senior Matthew Mulloy (Kingwood), a transfer from Baylor; junior point guard Mattia Cafisi (Switzerland), a transfer from Frank Phillips; 6-7 junior Hunter Henderson (Kellyville, Oklahoma), a transfer from Murray State; and freshmen

J.J. Culver of Wayland Baptist takes a jumper against McMurry. The 6-5 Culver, the brother of former Texas Tech star Jarrett Culver and a Lubbock Coronado graduate, was an NAIA All-American last season. (Photo by Claudia Lusk/WBU Sports Information)

Gage Hulse (Huffman) and Fernando Hinojosa (New Braunfels). Wayland opens the season Oct. 31 by hosting the Pioneer Tip-Off Classic and taking on Arlington Baptist and McMurry. The Pioneers will play Rice in an exhibition game Nov. 10 in Houston and will travel to Iowa for a tournament right before starting SAC play on Nov. 21.

Wayland Baptist Pioneers Roster Name, Ht., Pos., Class, Hometown Payton Havens, 5-10, G, Fr., Washington, Illinois Tre Fillmore, 6-2, G, Jr., Amarillo, Texas CJ Obinwa, 6-2, G, Sr., Arlington, Texas Fernando Hinojosa, 6-0, G, Fr., New Braunfels, Texas J.J. Culver, 6-5, G, Sr., Lubbock, Texas Jack Nobles, 6-6, F, Sr., Trophy Club, Texas Reese Puckett, 6-0, G, Jr., Vernon, Texas Jordan Brannon, 6-3, G, Fr., Lubbock, Texas Bonny Udoh, 6-5, F, Sr., Amarillo, Texas Mattia Cafisi, 6-3, G, Jr., Porza, Switzerland Gage Hulse, 6-1, G, Fr., Huffman, Texas Matthew Mulloy, 6-5, F, Sr., Kingwood, Texas Hunter Henderson, 6-7, F, Jr., Kellyville, Oklahoma Deng James Bol Yol, 6-11, P, Jr., Kampala, Uganda Jibrael Washington, 6-8, P, Jr., Waco, Texas Coach: Ty Harrelson Asst. Coaches: Landon Hughey, Adrian Davilla, Kyler Shula 2018-2019 record: 24-8, 19-3

Wayland Pioneer Tre Fillmore, a Palo Duro graduate, goes to the basket against McMurry. (Photo by Claudia Lusk/WBU Sports Information)

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WAYLAND BAPTIST PIONEERS SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Time Pioneer Tip-Off Classic Oc. 31 Arlington Baptist University 8 p.m. Nov. 1 McMurray University 8 p.m. Nov. 5 University of the Southwest @ Hobbs, N.M. 7 p.m. Nov. 10 Rice University @ Houston 4 p.m. Waldorf Classic Nov. 15 Waldorf (Iowa) @ Forest City, Iowa 8 p.m. Nov. 16 Bellevue University @ Forest City, Iowa 2 p.m. Nov. 21 Southwestern Christian University @ Bethany, Oklahoma 7:45 p.m. Nov. 23 Oklahoma City University @ Okla. City, OK 3:45 p.m. Nov. 26 University of the Southwest 6 p.m. Dec. 7 Eastern New Mexico University @ Portales, NM 7 p.m. Dec. 10 Southwestern Adventist University 8 p.m. Dec. 28 Hardin-Simmons University @ Abilene 3 p.m. Jan. 2 Southwestern Assemblies of God University @ Waxahachie 7:45 p.m. Jan. 4 Texas Wesleyan University @ Fort Worth 3:45 p.m. Jan. 9 Mid-America Christian University - Oklahoma 7:45 p.m. Jan. 11 University of Science and Arts – Oklahoma 3:45 p.m.

Jan. 16 Jan. 18 Jan. 21 Jan. 23 Jan. 25 Jan. 30 Feb. 1 Feb. 6 Feb. 8 Feb. 13 Feb. 15 Feb. 18 Feb. 20 Feb. 22 Feb. 27 Feb. 29 Mar. 3 Mar. 6 Mar. 7

@ Langston, Oklahoma 7:45 p.m. Central Christian College @ McPherson, Kansas 3:45 p.m. Oklahoma Panhandle State University 7:45 p.m. John Brown University – Arkansas 7:45 p.m. Bacone College -Oklahoma 4 p.m. Texas Wesleyan University 7:45 p.m. Southwestern Assemblies of God University 3:45 p.m. University of Science and Arts @ Chickasha, OK 7:45 p.m. Mid-America Christian University @ Okla. City 3:45 p.m. Central Christian College – Kansas 7:45 p.m. Langston 3:45 p.m. Oklahoma Panhandle State University @ Goodwell, Oklahoma 7:45 p.m. Bacone College @ Muskogee, Oklahoma 8 p.m. John Brown University @ Siloam Springs, Ark. 3:45 p.m. Oklahoma City University 7:45 p.m. Southwestern Christian University 3:45 p.m SAC Tournament Quarterfinal TBA Semifinal TBA Final TBA

Wayland Women

Flying Queens have one goal By KEVIN LEWIS What could be better than following up the Wayland Baptist Flying Queens being inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame than with winning a national championship? Not much, according to Flying Queens head coach Alesha Ellis. “This team has one goal in mind, and that is to win a national championship,” Ellis said. A former Plainview and Texas Tech standout, Ellis has turned around the Queens program since her arrival at Wayland in 2013. After qualifying for the NAIA national tournament just once in the previous nine years, the Queens have made it to nationals all six of Ellis’ seasons at the helm. The highlight of that streak was a trip to the Fabulous Four in 2018, the best showing for the program in a quarter of a century. The Flying Queens enjoyed another strong showing last season, claiming their second Sooner Athletic Conference Tournament title in four years, but Wayland, ranked seventh in the nation, was knocked off in the second round of the national tourney in Billings, Montana. “The Flying Queens are ready to get started,” Ellis said. “This is one of the best teams we have had since I’ve been at Wayland. We are definitely deeper than we have ever been in the seven years I have been here.” Four starters return off last year’s squad that finished 29-6, the most wins for the Flying Queens since 1989-90. The lone

Coach Alesha Ellis

Morgan Bennett

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Kaylee Edgemon

Morgan Bennett of Wayland Baptist sets up the offense against Our Lady of the Lake University in the second round of the NAIA Division I Women’s Basketball National Championships in Billings, Montana, in March. The Saints hit a 3-pointer with 2.4 seconds left to knock the Flying Queens out of the tournament, 96-93. (WBU Sports Information photo)

starter missing is Maci Merket, a two-time NAIA honorable mention All-America honoree who graduated as the No. 12 scorer in program history. Merket’s departure will be felt, because the Canadian product led Wayland in scoring (13.2 ppg), rebounds (6.5) and steals (1.9) and was second in assists (3.5). She was the team’s top three-point threat. Merket was one-third of an all-American trio for the Flying Queens that also included Morgan Bennett, who made the second team, and Kaylee Edgemon of Littlefield, who was an honorable mention pick. Bennett, a 5-foot-8 senior guard from Shallowater, averaged a team-high 29.4 minutes a game and ranked 10th in the College

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NAIA in assists (5.3; she was first in the nation as a sophomore) while also averaging 9.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.6 steals. Bennett is poised to become the Flying Queens’ career assists leader, entering the season just 92 short of surpassing former Slaton player and coaching great Chris Kennedy, whose 613 assists have topped the Flying Queens’ list since 1983. Bennett is one of four seniors on Ellis’ roster, joined by Deborah VanDijk (Nazareth), Kambrey Blakey (Portales, New Mexico), and Kelea Pool (Seminole). “We are looking forward to bringing back four seniors. They are all great leaders,” Ellis said. The 6-foot VanDijk is a three-time honorable mention allconference selection who averaged 10.8 points and 5.3 rebounds while leading the team in field goal shooting at 54 percent. Blakey, also 6-foot, was third on the team in scoring at 12.2 ppg along with 4.5 boards. “Kambrey proved to be one of the toughest players in the nation,” said Ellis. The 6-2 Pool, who averaged 4.9 points and 3.3 rebounds, provided a spark off the bench with her ability to play both inside and hit the three-pointer. Edgemon was second in scoring a year ago at 13 ppg and third in rebounding at 5.3. Guards Cailyn Breckel (Shallowater) and Payton Brown (Lubbock Roosevelt) both showed promising signs as freshmen last season, with Breckel finishing second on the team in rebounds at 5.8 rpg along with 6.2 ppg, and Brown getting 8.1 ppg and 4.8 rpg. Ellis called Brown, who spells Bennett at point guard, “a player to watch for this season.” Redshirt sophomore Jolie Donaldson (Whitewright) is expected to continue to make strides. Ellis said she is thrilled about her 2019 recruiting class, highlighted by 6-0 Blakely Gerber, the MVP of the state Class 1A tournament for Nazareth. “She can play any position on the floor,” the coach noted. Another newcomer to the roster is sophomore Jenna Cooper (Claude), a 5-11 transfer from Abilene Christian University who sat out last season. “Jenna is an explosive, versatile player,” Ellis said of the daughter of former WBU Pioneer standout Jason Cooper. Other freshman faces belong to Ashlyn Shelley (Idalou), Jessica Medcalf (Franklin), and 6-foot-3 Tayjanna McGehee-Pleasant (Amarillo Tascosa). “The whole team has something special to bring to the table,” Ellis said. “They all are unselfish and have one goal in mind, and that is to do whatever it takes to win a national championship.”

Flying Queen Kaylee Edgemon lets a jumper fly during the NAIA playoff opener in Billings, Montana, in March against William Jessup University. Edgemon scored 15 points and had a double-double as Wayland won, 83-38. (WBU Sports Information photo)

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College

Deborah VanDijk of the Flying Queens drives against a Central Christian defender as Wayland defeated the Kansas team 110-59 in February. At the start of the 2019-20 season, VanDijk surpassed 1,000 points for her Wayland career. (WBU Sports Information photo)

WAYLAND BAPTIST FLYING QUEENS SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Time Nov. 1 Central Methodist University @ Fayette, MO 12 p.m. Nov. 5 Sul Ross State University 5 p.m. Nov. 15 Our Lady of the Lake University @ San Antonio TBA Nov. 16 University of Mary Hardin – Baylor @ Belton TBA Nov. 21 Southwestern Christian University @ Bethany, OK 6 p.m. Nov. 23 @ Oklahoma City University 2 p.m. NAIA Rotary Classic Dec. 7 Thomas More University 4 p.m. Dec. 19 Louisiana State University Alexandria 2 p.m. Dec. 28 Hardin-Simmons University @ Abilene TBA Jan. 2 Southwestern Assemblies of God @ Waxahachie 6 p.m. Jan. 4 Texas Wesleyan University @ Fort Worth 2 p.m. Jan. 9 Mid-America Christian University – Oklahoma 6 p.m. Jan. 11 University of Science and Arts – Oklahoma 2 p.m. Jan. 16 @ Langston, Oklahoma 6 p.m. Jan. 18 Central Christian College @ McPherson, Kansas TBA Jan. 21 Oklahoma Panhandle State University 6 p.m. Jan. 23 John Brown University – Arkansas 6 p.m. Jan. 25 Bacone College – Oklahoma 2 p.m. Jan. 30 Texas Wesleyan 6 p.m. Feb. 1 Southwestern Assemblies of God – Texas 2 p.m. Feb. 6 University of Science and Arts @ Chickasha, OK 6 p.m. Feb. 8 Mid-America Christian University @ Okla. City 2 p.m. Feb. 13 Central Christian College – Kansas 6 p.m. Feb. 15 Langston 2 p.m. Feb. 18 Oklahoma Panhandle State University @ Goodwell, Oklahoma 6 p.m. Feb. 20 Bacone College @ Muskogee, Oklahoma 6 p.m. Feb. 22 John Brown University @ Siloam Springs, Ark. 2 p.m. Feb. 27 Oklahoma City University 6 p.m. Feb. 29 Southwestern Christian University 2 p.m. SAC Tournmanet Mar. 3 Quarterfinal TBA Mar. 6 Semifinal TBA Mar. 7 Final TBA

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Wayland Baptist Flying Queens Roster Name, Ht., Pos., Class, Hometown Morgan Bennett, 5-8, G, Sr., Shallowater, Texas Blakely Gerber, 6-0, F, Fr., Nazareth, Texas Jolie Donaldson, 5-10, G, Soph., Whitewright, Texas Payton Brown, 5-7, G, Soph., Lubbock, Texas Ashlyn Shelley, 5-8, G, Fr., Idalou, Texas Jessica Medcalf, 5-8, G, Fr., Franklin, Texas Cailyn Breckel, 5-9, G, Soph., Shallowater, Texas Deborah VanDijk, 6-0, F/P, Sr., Nazareth, Texas Tayjanna McGehee-Pleasant, 6-3, F/P, Fr., Amarillo, Texas Kambrey Blakey, 6-0, F, Sr., Portales, New Mexico Jenna Cooper, 5-11, F, Soph., Claude, Texas Kaylee Edgemon, 5-11, F, Jr., Littlefield, Texas Kelea Pool, 6-2, F/P, Sr., Seminole, Texas Tabytha Herrera, 5-6, G, Fr., Lubbock, Texas

Deborah VanDijk

Kambrey Blakey

Kalea Pool

Cailin Breckel

Payton Brown

Jolie Donaldson

Coach: Alesha Ellis Asst. Coaches: Josh Bailey, Maci Merket 2018-2019 record: 29-6, 19-3

Former Flying Queen inducted into WBHOF Carolyn Bush Roddy, a Wayland Baptist All-American in 1973-74 and 1974-75, was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in June 2019 in Knoxville, Tennessee. ( Bush, a Kingston, Tennessee native, helped the Flying Queens to the last two of their 10 AAU national championships and two NWIT titles. Under Coach Dean Weese, Wayland went 68-5 in her two seasons in Plainview. A 6-2 post, Bush led the Flying Queens in scoring and rebounding her two years while earning AAU and NWIT All-American honors. She repeated as NWIT MVP as a senior after averaging just over 33 points and 10 rebounds during the tournament. She also was named AAU Tournament MVP and was a Kodak All-American. During her time at Wayland, which inducted her into its Athletics Hall of Honor in 2009, Bush earned MVP honors of various tournaments 15 times. She was featured in Sports Illustrated’s “Faces in the Crowd,” and was a National Amateur Association of Universities Women’s Basketball team member. Bush was named the 1975 Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame Player of the Year; represented the U.S. in the World University 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Carolyn Bush Roddy poses at the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Tennessee, this year in the left photo. Above, she plays in the 1970s for the Hutcherson Flying Queens of Wayland Baptist University.

Games in Mexico; played in the Pan-American Games in Columbia; and toured Russia, China, Taiwan, Japan and Korea with a USA All-Star team. In 1976, she was a finalist for the USA Women’s Olympic team. Now 66, she and husband Steve live in her hometown of Kingston, Tennessee. She is the ninth person with ties to the Flying Queens to join the WBHOF, along with the 1953-58 Flying Queens teams that won 131 straight games and were recognized as Trailblazers of the Game. The other nine people are Harley Redin, coach, 1955-73, inducted in 1999; Katherine Washington, player, 1957-60, 2000; Dean Weese, coach, 1973-79, 2000; Claude Hutcherson, sponsor, 1950-77, 2003; Patsy Neal, player, 1956-60, 2003; Marsha Sharp, Queen Bees player, 1970-72 and Queen Bees coach, 1972-74, 2003; Jill Rankin Schneider, player, 1975-78, 2008; Lometa Odom, player, 1952-56, 2011; and Joe Lombard, coach and former player, 1972-75, 2015. College

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South Plains Men

It’s a whole new team for Texans By DAVE WOHLFARTH It’s the nature of junior college basketball — a coach starts each season with practically a whole new team. Players transfer in, others transfer out. The potential two years of eligibility often ends up as one. Coach Steve Green certainly is used to the incoming/outgoing aspects of JC hoops. In his 19 seasons at South Plains, he’s learned to deal with the annual turnover quite nicely. In fact, his Texan teams have won three National Junior College Athletic Association Division I championships. Plus, Green’s guys have won 490 games and lost 128, a .793 winning percentage. However, this season’s turnover at SPC seems a bit extreme. Not a single player on this year’s Texan roster played any minutes last season. Three sophomores — 6-2 guard Junior Farquhar from Toronto, Canada, and 6-7 forward Fredelin De La Cruz from the Dominican Republic and 6-10 forward Andre Rafus from Baltimore — are listed on the 2019-20 SPJC roster. The rest are either true freshmen or redshirt freshmen. In addition to 14 new faces, Green might have to deal with some language problems as seven of the newcomers are foreigners. In addition to Farquhar and De La Cruz, there are 6-6 freshman guard Benjamin Bayela from France, 6-7 freshman forward Jevonnie Scott from Toronto, 6-7 redshirt freshman SOUTH PLAINS TEXANS SCHEDULE Date Opponent University of Central Oklahoma – JUCO Pre-Season Elite 8 Nov. 1 @ Navarro College Nov. 2 Missouri State University – West Plains Texas East vs. West Challege – Lewisville High School Nov. 8 Trinity Valley Community College Nov. 9 @ Lamar State College – Port Arthur Texan Classic Nov. 15 Panola College Nov. 16 Coastal Bend College Nov. 26 Lamar Community College Collin County Thanksgiving Classic Nov. 29 @ Collin Community College Nov. 30 Hill College Dec. 4 Dec. 7 Dec. 28 Jan. 6 Jan. 9 Jan. 13 Jan. 20 Jan. 23 Jan. 27 Jan. 30 Feb. 3 Feb. 6 Feb.10 Feb. 13 Feb. 20 Feb. 24 Feb. 27

Howard College @ Big Spring Western Texas College @ 2020 Fiesta Bowl Junior College Shoot Out Mesa, Arizona @ Clarendon College New Mexico Military College New Mexico Junior College Midland College Frank Phillips College @ Borger Odessa College @ OC Sports Center, Odessa Howard College Western Texas College @ The Coliseum, Snyer Clarendon College New Mexico Military Institute @ Roswell, NM New Mexico Junior College @ Hobbs, NM @ Midland College Frank Phillips College Odessa College

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Time 4 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 10 a.m. 7 p.m. 2 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. TBA 7:30 p.m. 3:45 p.m. TBA 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Coach Steve Green

Junior Farquhar

Stephen Hunt

Fredelin De La Cruz

Andre Rafus

Omar Thielemans from Belgium, 6-11 freshman forward/center Yuot Gai from Melbourne, Australia, and 6-10 freshman center Bernard Kouma from Chad. The only area player on the Texans is 6-1 freshman guard Stephen Hunt. Hunt was a first-team all-district player for Lubbock Southcrest, a TAPPS school, last season. Green began last season with only one starter, Chris Orlina, returning from his 2018 NJCAA championship team, and two others who saw scant action. Orlina, a 6-7 guard/forward, started 25 games and scored 11 points per game for the Texans last season, but an even bigger impact came from the four other starters, all sophomore transfers from other schools. The big man was 6-9 forward Gaige Prim, who led the team in scoring (20.7 ppg) and rebounding (11.5 per game). He had 23 double-doubles. The lanky transfer from Division II West Texas A&M University was named NJCAA first-team All-American and the MVP of the Western Junior College Athletic Conference. Two transfers from Division I UTEP certainly helped. Trey Wade, a 6-7 guard/forward, contributed 13.4 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 2.4 assists per game. Deon Barrett, a 5-10 guard, led the Texans in assists at 3.4 per game and also chipped in with 7.9 ppg. He made 55 3-pointers on the season. Jonah Antonio, a 6-4 guard who transferred from D-I Mount St. Mary’s, led the team in long-range shooting with 97 3-pointers in 237 attempts, a 40.9 percent rate. Antonio, originally from Perth, Australia, registered 11.6 ppg and 4.5 rpg. Those five starters were the mainstays in a fine season. The Texans recorded a 28-6 season, which included a 12-4 mark in the WJCAC. They reached the Final Four for the third consecutive season, losing to Vincennes 85-67 in the NJCAA semifinals in Hutchinson, Kansas. South Plains entered that game as the No. 2 seed and Vincennes College

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was No. 3. Prim was forced to sit a spell after picking up his fourth foul early in the second half but still led all scorers with 29 points and grabbed 15 rebounds. Orlina had led the Texans to their 82-74 quarterfinal win over Eastern Florida State College with 23 points and eight rebounds as SPC met Eastern Florida for the third time in the last four national tournaments. The Texans prevailed in the rubber match. Earlier at Hutchinson, South Plains had eliminated Trinity Valley 82-75 with four Texans scoring in double figures. Wade and Prim each scored 22. Prim, who was also named the Region V player of the year, had scored 27 points in the Texans’ 73-71 victory over Odessa in the Region V title game. South Plains had lost two games by a total of five points to conference foe Odessa during the regular season. That not only gained sweet revenge for the Texans but it marked the seventh regional crown for Green at SPC and earned his Texan teams a ninth appearance in the national tournament. “We really feel honored to win the region again, and tonight we had to beat a very good team to do so,” Green told the spctexans.com website. “There’s a nickel’s worth of difference on any night between us and Odessa, and tonight it went in our favor. We made just enough plays to win the game, and we were able to get the ball inside and have some success.” There may have been a nickel’s worth of point differential between the teams during the season, but the Texans got in the last two cents’ worth. The Texans had started the season on a roll, winning their first 13 games before stumbling a bit in mid-season. But in postseason play, they won five straight before losing to Vincennes. Traditionally, Green’s teams like to run. South Plains averaged 83.2 points per game while yielding 68 per game last season. The exodus of players off last year’s team was impressive. Seven Texans signed to continue their basketball careers at fouryear Division I schools. An eighth will play for a D-II team. Prim committed to Missouri State early in the season. Wade, an all-region and all-conference selection, chose Wichita State. Antonio, also an all-WJCAC pick, signed with UNLV. Orlina will play for McNeese State; Christian Wilson for Longwood (Virginia) University; Chris Efretuei for Louisiana Monroe; and Dajour Joseph for New Mexico State. Wilson (3.6 ppg), Efretuei (1.8 ppg) and Joseph (3.6 ppg) came off the bench last year. Barrett chose Texas A&M-Commerce, a D-II school in the Lone Star Conference. Despite losing all those players, South Plains was voted to finish first in the WJCAC this season. In a unanimous vote, the other conference coaches awarded the Texans 64 points. Coaches could not vote for their own team. The Texans got off to a good start, beating Navarro College 70-55 and Missouri State University-West Plains 98-79 on the first weekend of their 2019-20 season. After some tournament appearances (Texan Classic and Collin County Thanksgiving), they’ll begin conference play Dec. 4. Green’s Texans won NJCAA national championships in 2008, 2012 and 2018. His Texans have won seven conference championships. He’s won numerous coach of the year awards and was inducted into the NJCAA Men’s Basketball Hall if Fame in 2015. The Miami, Oklahoma, native earned degrees from Oklahoma Christian College and Sul Ross State University. After a couple of jobs as an assistant coach, he began his head coaching career 66

College

South Plains Texans Roster Ht. Pos. Class Name Hometown Paul Person, 6-0, G, Fr., Bronx, New York Philmon Gebrewhit, 6-7, G, Fr., Boston, Massachusetts Jarrel Rosser, 6-7, F, Fr., Newnan, Georgia Junior Farquhar, 6-2, G, Soph., Toronto, Canada Fahmmi Mamo, 6-5, G, Fr., Alexandria, Virginia Fredelin De La Cruz, 6-7, F, Soph., Dominican Republic Rivaldo Soares, 6-5, G, Fr., Boston, Massachusetts Jevonnie Scott, 6-7, F, Fr., Toronto, Canada Benjamin Bayela, 6-6, G, Fr., France Chance Moore, 6-7, F/G, Fr., Louisville, Kentucky Omar Thielemans, 6-7, F, Fr., Belgium Yuot Gai, 6-11, P/F, Fr., Melbourne, Australia Stephen Hunt, 6-1, G, Fr., Lubbock, Texas Bernard Kouma, 6-10, P, Fr., Chad, Africa Andre Rafus, 6-10, Soph., Baltimore, Maryland Coach: Steve Green Asst. Coaches: Matt Williams, Tyler Notch 2018-2019 record: 28-6, 12-4

at Howard College (1998-91), then Midland College (1991-94). After five years as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at San Diego State University and another year as an assistant at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, he moved to South Plains in 2000. His overall head coaching record is 644-171, a .790 winning percentage.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

South Plains Women

Lady Texans encore looks exciting By DAVE WOHLFARTH Watch out for the Lady Texans. They turned in 30 wins, shared their conference title, were ranked No. 1 in the country for the first time in school history and reached the NJCAA Elite Eight last season. This season could be even better because South Plains has some experienced players with talent. Coach Cayla Petree’s fourth season at SPC certainly had some highlights. For instance: • After losing a tough 75-70 decision at Seward Community College on Nov. 9, the Lady Texans reeled off 22 wins in a row. Five of those were conference games on the road. • Nineteen games into that winning streak, SPC garnered that No.1 national ranking in the NJCAA Division I national poll. At that time (Jan. 29), the Lady Texans stood 22-1 and owned four victories over top 25 teams. South Plains held that top ranking for two weeks before stumbling 68-65 at New Mexico Junior College on Feb. 14. The Lady Texans fell to No. 4, then worked their way back to No. 3 before a pair of losses to Odessa (regular season finale and Region V semifinals) dropped them to No. 10. SOUTH PLAINS LADY TEXANS SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Time Lady Texan Home Classic Nov. 1 Coastal Bend vs. NWKTC 5:45 p.m. Nov. 2 NWKTC vs. SWCID 11 a.m. Coastal Bend College 1 p.m. Nov. 3 Northwest Kansas Technical College 1 p.m. Nov. 7 Lamar Community College vs. NWKTC 5:45 p.m. Lady Texan Classic Nov. 8 Lamar Community College 5:45 p.m. Nov. 9 Northwest Kansas Technical College 1 p.m. NMJC Classic Nov. 15 @ Grayson College TBA Nov. 16 @ Salt Lake Community College TBA Vs. Grayson College @ T-Bird Shoot Out 1 p.m. Nov. 22 Cloud County Community College @ Concordia, Kansas 6 p.m. Nov. 23 Pratt Community College @ Pratt, Kansas 2 p.m. Nov. 24 @ Northwest Kansas Technical College TBA CSI Classic – Twin Falls, Idaho Nov. 29 @ College of Southern Idaho TBA Nov. 30 @ Snow College 7 p.m. Dec. 4 @ Howard College Dec. 7 Western Texas College Dec. 15 Dodge City Community College Phoenix Classic Dec. 28 @ Phoenix Classic Dec. 29 Lake Region State College – ND Dec. 30 vs. Bismarck State College @ Phoenix, AZ Jan. 6 Jan. 13 Jan. 20 Jan. 23 Jan. 27 Feb. 3 Feb. 6 Feb. 13 Feb. 20 Feb. 24 Feb. 27

5:45 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 4 p.m. 12 p.m. 2 p.m.

@ Clarendon College 5:45 p.m. New Mexico Junior College 5:45 p.m. Midland College 5:45 p.m. @ Frank Phillips College 5:45 p.m. Odessa College @ OC Sports Center 5:45 p.m. Western Texas College @ The Coliseum, Snyder 5:45 p.m. Clarendon College 5:45 p.m. New Mexico Junior College @ Hobbs, NM 6:45 p.m. @ Midland College 5:45 p.m. Frank Phillips College 5:45 p.m. Odessa College 5:45 p.m.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Coach Cayla Petree

Sarah Shematsi

Ka’Lia Smith

Caroline Germond

Ruth Koang

• South Plains nailed down a share of the Western Junior College Athletic Conference crown — its first in the Petree regime — with an 82-56 rout of Clarendon on Feb. 25. The Lady Texans shared the WJCAC title with Odessa, both with 12-2 records. • The Lady Texans avenged their early season loss to Seward County with a resounding 87-61 conquest of the seventh-ranked Kansans in the NJCAA Sweet 16 game played in nearby Lubbock. South Plains President Dr. Robin Satterwhite closed the Levelland school earlier in the day so the students could attend the game in the Rip Griffin Center. Lady Texan freshman Sarah Shematsi scored a career-best 28 points to lead the way. • One day later at the same site, the 10th-ranked Lady Texans battled No. 2 Gulf Coast State College into the final seconds before bowing 68-66 in the Elite Eight game. Keke Hunter registered her 22nd double-double of the season with 17 points and 13 rebounds in the losing effort. After the season’s last shot was attempted, four Lady Texans signed to play with NCAA Division I teams. Gabbie Green, a 5-7 sophomore guard from Bellville, will continue her career at the University of Pittsburgh. Green started all 35 games for SPC and averaged 14.4 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.9 assists. She was named NJCAA first-team All-American, a WBCA All-American, the Region V player of the year and the WJCAC MVP. Hunter, the Lady Texans’ leading scorer at 15.2 ppg and rebounder at 10.6 rpg, chose the University of Memphis. The 6-0 sophomore forward from Hot Springs, Arkansas, was selected to the all-region and all-conference teams. Chantal Govan, a 5-6 sophomore guard who started 21 games for the Lady Texans contributed 4.9 ppg and 2.2 rpg. The San Antonio native signed with Cal Poly University. And Romola Dominguez, a 5-7 freshman guard from Denver who posted 5.1 ppg, 3.1 rpg statistics, will play for Central College

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Arkansas University. Despite all those departures, South Plains is favored to repeat as WJCAC champions. The Lady Texans received 46 of a possible 49 points in a pre-season vote by the conference coaches, who were not allowed to vote for their own team. That optimism centers on the return of five players — a high number for a junior college team — from last year’s squad. Two of those returnees were full-time starters and another started 14 games. Plus, there’s a nice influx of newcomers. Shematsi, a 6-2 sophomore guard/forward from Angers, France, started 32 games last year and contributed 13.6 ppg, 5 rpg and 2.7 apg. Shematsi has already committed to play for LSU in 2020-21. She shares her hometown with Caroline Germond, a 5-6 sophomore guard who made 30 starts last season. Germond (9.6 ppg 2.6 rpg, 3.7 apg) led the Lady Texans in 3-point shooting with 41 connections on 118 attempts, a .466 shooting percentage from beyond the arc. Ruth Koang, a 6-5 sophomore forward from Rochester, New York, was the 14-game starter, averaging 6.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg. SPC’s French Connection is alive and well. Shematsi and Germond figure prominently in this season’s success. So do 6-5 sophomore center Channel Noah and 6-0 sophomore guard Oceane Robin (4 ppg). Both saw considerable action last season. Plus, there’s a fifth mademoiselle in 5-6 freshman guard Naelle Bernard from Paris. Newcomers Asia McCoy, a 5-10 sophomore forward from Lawrenceville, Georgia, and freshmen Ashala Moseberry and Ka’Lia Smith look to be major contributors this season, judging from some early results. In her first start, McCoy scored 11 points and grabbed six rebounds as the Lady Texans opened their 2019-20 campaign with a 121-56 thumping of Coastal Bend College. Moseberry, a 5-11 guard from Madison, Wisconsin, came off the bench to score 15 points as SPC rolled Kansas Technical College 78-41 in its second game. Then Smith pumped in 24 points as the Lady Texans set two school records in a 147-27 rout of Lamar College in Game 3. The 147 points established a SPC record for most points scored in a game, and the 120 points differential set the mark for margin of victory. Smith, who also scored 16 points in the South Plains’ opener, is a 6-1 forward from Tascosa. She was a two-time district MVP and on the Amarillo Globe-News Girls Super team as a senior. She averaged 21 points and 13 rebounds for the Lady Rebels that season. The Lady Texans’ foreign delegation doesn’t end with their French Connection. Among the newcomers on this year’s roster are 5-9 freshman guard Grace Hunter from Porirua, New Zealand, 5-8 freshman guard Johanna Teder from Tartu, Estonia, and 6-0 freshman forward Kor Fornesa Liu from Bangkok, Thailand. Petree always has emphasized recruiting foreign players as she just tries to find the best players available. Last season’s 30-5 season was the best of Petree’s four SPC teams, although her second team went 28-6 and reached the Sweet 16. The 2018-19 Lady Texans went 12-1 at home, 6-3 on the road and 12-1 at neutral sites. SPC averaged 78.5 points per game while yielding an average of 54.2. Petree was named the WJCAC co-coach of the year. Her four-year coaching record at South Plains is 95-35, a .731 winning percentage. 68

College

South Plains Lady Texan Roster Ht. Pos. Class Name Hometown Caroline Germond, 5-6, G, Soph., Angers, France Grace Hunter, 5-9, G, Fr., Porirua, New Zealand Johanna Teder, 5-8, G, Fr., Tartu, Estonia Channel Noah, 6-5, F/P, Soph., France Kor Fornesa Liu, 6-0, F, Fr., Bangkok, Thailand Sarah Shematsi, 6-2, G/F, Soph., Angers, France Naelle Bernard, 5-6, G, Fr., Paris, France Oceane Robin, 6-0, G, Soph., France Asia McCoy, 5-10, F, Soph., Lawrenceville, Georgia Ashala Moseberry, 5-11, G, Fr., Madison, Wisconsin Ruth Koang, 6-5, F, Soph., Rochester, New York Ka’Lia Smith, 6-1, F, Fr., Amarillo, Texas Coach: Cayla Petree Asst. Coaches: Julio Pacheco, Lindsay Deline, Jr. 2018-2019 record: 28-4, 12-2 Petree came to SPC from Division II Angelo State University, where she led the Belles to the Lone Star Conference tournament in her first year. She coached Angelo for two seasons. Previously, she spent a year as an assistant coach at North Texas. An all-state player at Cisco High School, Petree played for Cisco Junior College and Texas Tech. She was a member of Marsha Sharp’s 2003 Tech team that reached the Elite Eight. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Tech. She began her coaching career at Cisco Junior College in 2007. Before her arrival, Cisco JC had a 0-60 record the previous two years. She turned Cisco’s fortunes around with three straight 29-win seasons and a Region V tournament berth.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Clarendon College Men

Bulldogs playing with higher ceiling By LANCE LAHNERT Back to the drawing board. That’s the philosophy Clarendon Bulldogs fifth-year coach Isaac Fontenot-Amedee will take as he prepares his team for the brutal 2019-20 Western Junior College Athletic Conference season. “We have one back,” Amedee said. “But what we have is a lot of ability.” After turning the program around the past two years, making back-to-back appearances in the NJCAA Region 5 men’s tournament with identical 19-10 records, Amedee knows there still is more work to do. “In the past we have had smaller teams where maybe we had a lower ceiling, and our players handled that,” Amedee said. “This year is a big difference. The is the biggest and most athletic team we have had here, so we have to solidify how we handle playing with a higher ceiling.” A good place to start handling the expectations is with the one returning player, 6-0 sophomore guard Donchevell Nugent. Nugent is a skilled guard averaging nearly 18 points a game last year. “Donchevell is really, really good,” Amedee said of one of several players he expects to sign with four-year colleges after the season. The height Amedee speaks of comes in the form of a pair of 6-10 sophomores, Dimitar Pandev and Esahia Nywie. “Both Dimitar and Esahia are highly skilled players, and that’s what you have to hang in the WJCAC,” Amedee said. “It’s a battle every night, and to win 10 games in conference is a challenge. “Everybody is trying to get more and more talent on their CLARENDON COLLEGE BULLDOGS SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Nov. 4 Redlands Community College Nov. 8 Lamar State @ Port Arthur Nov. 9 @ Panola College Nov. 11 Redlands Community College @ El Reno, Okla. Nov. 13 Western Oklahoma @ Altus, Okla. Nov. 15 McLeannan @ Snyder Nov. 16 Angelina College @ Snyder Nov. 29 Seminole College @ Plano Nov. 30 Collin College @ Plano Dec. 2 Western Oklahoma State College Dec. 4 New Mexico Military Institute @ Roswell, NM Dec. 7 Howard Community College Dec. 30 CMP Prep @ Port Arthur Dec. 31 Louisiana Christian Prep @ Port Arthur Jan. 6 South Plains College Jan. 13 Frank Phillips Community College Jan. 16 NMJC @ Hobbs, New Mexico Jan. 20 Odessa Community College Jan. 23 @ Midland Community College Jan. 27 Western Texas @ Snyder Jan. 30 New Mexico Military Institute Feb. 3 Howard Community College @ Big Springs Feb. 6 South Plains College @ Levelland Feb. 13 Frank Phillips Community College @ Borger Feb. 17 NMJC Feb. 20 @ Odessa Community College Feb. 24 Midland Community College Feb. 27 Western Texas March 3-7 Western JCAC Region V Tournament @ Abilene 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Time 12 p.m. 10 a.m. 12 p.m. 5 p.m. 7 p.m. 4 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 3 p.m. 2 p.m. 12 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. TBD

Donchevell Nugent

Elijah Gonzales

roster. We are the same. Nywie has been offered by Fresno State.” Joining Dimitar and Esahia in giving Clarendon height is a familiar name to this area: 6-7 Russell Harrison. Harrison played at Lubbock Monterey (once scoring 42 points in a game) and started his college career at Wayland Baptist. He hasn’t played for two seasons, but Amedee said, “Russell may turn out to be our best player.” Another name familiar and popular to Amarillo high school fans is 6-3 sophomore guard Darreus Brown. Brown spent his first three year of high school at Tascosa and was known for his amazing ability to score the ball. “Darreus still can score it,” Amedee said. “He has worked hard in the weight room getting stronger and is doing a good job for us.” Amedee is no stranger to what it takes to win basketball games. He arrived at Clarendon five years ago from Hill College, where he was an assistant to Swede Trenkle. While at Hill in 2015, the school placed third in the National Junior College Athletic Association national tournament. Amedee said for the Bulldogs to make a three-peat to the Region 5 tournament and beyond, “We have to learn to fit together and handle all the randomness that comes with basketball. Like how a missed shot here or a tipped ball there ends up deciding a game. “I’m really, really looking forward to see how this turns out.” Clarendon College Bulldogs Roster Name, Ht., Pos., Class Darreus Brown, 6-3, G, Soph. Shemar Dennis, 6-5, G, Fr. Emmanuel Gatkek, 6-8, F, Soph. Elijah Gonzales, 5-9, G, Soph. Russell Harrison, 6-7, F, Soph. Kobi Johnson, 5-7, G, Fr. Mark-Anthony McReed, 6-5, F, Fr. Donchevell Nugent, 6-0, G, Soph. Esahia Nywie, 6-10, F, Soph. Dimitar Pandev, 6-10, F, Soph. Chan Racuh, 6-4, G, Soph. Michael Underwood, 6-6, G, Soph. Da’Vantre Vitor, 6-2, G, Soph. Jharon Whitfield, 6-3, G, Soph. Coach: Issac Fontenot-Amedee Asst. Coach: Rashaad Richardson 2018-2019 record: 19-10 College

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Clarendon College Women

Lady Bulldogs seek rebound with new faces By LANCE LAHNERT Let’s try this again. A season after reaching the 20-win mark, the Clarendon Lady Bulldogs dipped to an 11-19 record last year. If they are to reach back to the 20-win mark in 2019-20 under fourth-year coach Mark James, it will be done with new faces. Clarendon returns three players from last year and one fulltime starter in 5-8 sophomore guard Kelzie Orr. The other two returners are sophomore guard Mahoganey Nails from Plainview and the tallest player on the Lady Bulldogs roster, 6-1 Carria Smith from Memphis, Tennessee. “That’s it,” James said. “That’s what we have returning. Everybody else is new.” With the new players arrive high expectations. Despite playing in what is regarded as the best junior college conference in the nation, the Western Junior College Athletic Conference schedule, and despite having a limited number of scholarships compared to several opponents, James said the goal is high for his 2019-20 Lady Bulldogs. That’s to reach the Region V Tournament. To do that, each player will have to improve an aspect of her game, James said. “Everybody on this team can do something well,” James said. CLARENDON COLLEGE LADY BULLDOGS SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Oct. 12 Southwest Showcase Jamboree @ Frisco Oct. 19 Mid-America Showcase Jamboree @ Lawrence Kansas Oct. 25 Seward County Community College Nov. 1 Palo Alto CC @ San Antonio Nov. 2 @ San Antonio College Nov. 5 Lamar Community College Nov. 6 College of the Southwest Nov. 13 Western Oklahoma State College @ Altus, OK Nov. 15 Bethany College @ Linsborg, KS Nov. 16 Southwestern College @ Winfield, Kansas Nov. 19 Lamar Community College @ Lamar, Colorado Nov. 20 @ Hesston College - Hesston, Kansas Nov. 22 Mid-America Christian University Nov. 25 Trinidad State Junior College @ Trinidad, CO Nov. 26 Colorado Northwestern Community College @ Rangely, Colorado Dec. 2 Western Oklahoma State College Dec. 4 Otero Junior College @ Otero, Colorado Dec. 7 Howard College Dec. 30 CMP Prep @ Port Arthur Jan. 3 Trinidad State Junior College Jan. 6 South Plains College Jan. 8 Otero Junior College Jan. 13 Frank Phillips College Jan. 16 New Mexico Junior College @ Hobbs, NM Jan. 20 Odessa College Jan. 23 @ Midland College Jan. 27 Western Texas College @ Snyder Feb. 3 Howard College @ Big Spring Feb. 6 South Plains College @ Levelland Feb. 13 Frank Phillips College @ Borger Feb. 17 New Mexico Junior College @ Clarendon Feb. 20 @ Odessa College Feb. 24 Midland College Feb. 27 Western Texas College March 3-7 Region V Tournament @ Abilene

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College

Time 9 a.m.

9 a.m. 2 p.m. 5 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 12:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 6 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. TBD

Kelzie Orr

Mahogany Nails

Carria Smith

Taylor Sparks

Jess Myers

Nay Dawson

“We have to find a way to get more of them to do everything well. For instance, we have some kids who can defend or maybe they don’t score that well. Or they can score and not necessarily defend. We’re trying to find that balance of getting everybody on the same page.” James said that’s life at the junior college level, where the mix-and-match game is a yearly occurrence. “We have a nice mixture, but it’s also tough,” James said. “We have the three returners, then we have some transfers from other schools who have played quite a bit of basketball, then we have the true freshmen. It’s an interesting go.” James said there is no secret formula to producing consistency and wins. “We have to play well defensively; obviously that’s always going to be important,” James said. “We just have to figure out what works best for us. I’ve been a dribble-drive guy my whole career, and I’m not sure that’s our strength. So we may have to just switch things up.” With Smith the tallest player at 6-1, overcoming a lack of size will be a challenge against taller teams. “So we will be spreading it out a little more this year,” James said. “We have to buy in and make defense a priority. We have to make teams shoot over us.” Smith is an athletic player who can beat you on the post or outside, while Orr will be counted on to help lead the way with her scoring ability that produced double digits a year ago. One player impressing James early is 5-7 true freshman guard Taylor Sparks from Martin’s Mill. Sparks knows winning, as the past two seasons Martin’s Mill captured back-to-back Class 2A state championships. James said leadership rides along with Sparks and her strong winning background. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

“The one that had led by example from day one in practice is Taylor Sparks,” James said “She was a big part of those back-toback state championships. She can shoot the ball. And even on days when she is shooting it well, she does everything else well. She’s a sparkplug. A high energy kid. She’s out there competing.” A pair of transfer guards from Johnson County Community College also will help Clarendon this year in 5-3 Jess Myers and 5-8 Nay Dawson. Myers is considered the fastest guard to ever play at JCCC, quite an honor, while Dawson owns a sweet 3-point game. “We are lucky to get Jess and Nay,” James said. “They come from a great program, and we are so happy to have them here.” James said with so many new players, early success during nonconference is important to get his new-look roster ready for the gauntlet the WJCAC schedule presents. “I coached in the Jayhawk for 11 years and know the Florida schools as well,” James said. “The difference that sets our conference apart is that there are no bad teams. Every team has an elite three or four players. But it’s the next tier that are just as good. This is my fourth year, and I’m still the newest coach in the conference. So you have coaches who stay and know what they are doing. “Maybe I’m the crazy one in the room. But I really believe we can compete with these teams. I like our team.”

Clarendon College Lady Bulldogs Roster Name, Ht., Pos., Class, Hometown Kelzie Orr, 5-8, G, Soph., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Carria Smith, 6-1, P, Soph., Memphis, Tennessee Jess Myers, 5-3, G, Soph., St. Louis, Missouri Nay Dawson, 5-7, G, Soph., Macon, Georgia Desiree Williams, 5-9, G, Fr., Southhaven, Mississippi LyTia Flowers, 5-8, G, Soph., Memphis, Tennessee Elisa Priddy, 6-0, G, Fr., Belton, Texas Mahogany Nails, 5-6, G, Soph., Plainview, Texas Lakara Jordan, 5-9, G, Fr., Tulsa, Oklahoma Jaclynn Black, 5-10, F, Fr., Plainview, Texas Jade Nails, 5-5, G, Soph., Plainview, Texas Abbey Harrell, 6-0, G, Soph., Wichita Falls, Texas Olivia Shannon, 5-6, G, Fr., Plainview, Texas Taylor Sparks, 5-7, G, Fr., Martin’s Mill, Texas Jayla Johnson, 5-10, F, Fr., Cleburne, Texas Coach: Mark James Asst. Coach: Jasmine Cooper 2018-2019 record: 11-19

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

College

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2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

2018-2019 Postseason Results Girls Region 1 Tournaments Class 6A Quarterfinals: Tascosa 63, El Paso Franklin 50; South Grand Prairie 50, Cedar Hill 48; Richland 45, Arlington Martin 41; DeSoto 69, Dallas Skyline 57 Semifinals: South Grand Prairie 53, Tascosa 29; DeSoto 74, Richland 37 Finals: DeSoto 51, South Grand Prairie 34 Class 5A Quarterfinals: Amarillo High 60, Aledo 39; Lewisville The Colony 70, Mansfield Legacy 65; Lubbock Cooper 43, Plainview 30; Mansfield Timberview 68, Fort Worth Boswell 46 Semifinals: Amarillo High 68, Lewisville The Colony 66; Mansfield Timberview 64, Lubbock Cooper 50 Finals: Amarillo High 47, Mansfield Timberview 45 Class 4A Quarterfinals: Canyon 50, Estacado 33; Argyle 40, Stephenville 25; Levelland 51, Hereford 42; Bridgeport 50, Decatur 28 Semifinals: Argyle 48, Canyon 31; Levelland 68, Bridgeport 48 Finals: Argyle 52, Levelland 37 Class 3A Quarterfinals: Wall 47, Shallowater 43; Brock 59, Nocona 47; Idalou 39, Bushland 34; Jim Ned 46, Cisco 31 Semifinals: Wall 56, Brock 49; Idalou 41, Jim Ned 36 Finals: Wall 52, Idalou 36 Class 2A Quarterfinals: Panhandle 78, Stratford 39; Christoval 50, Seagraves 33; Wellington 48, Gruver 44; Forsan 30, Sundown 25 Semifinals: Panhandle 67, Christoval 23; Wellington 65, Forsan 30 Finals: Panhandle 53, Wellington 35 Class 1A Quarterfinals: McLean 55, Groom 21; New Home 43, Morton 39; Nazareth 69, Follett 21; Ropes 42, Sands 38 Semifinals: McLean 58, New Home 38; Nazareth 66, Ropes 35 Finals: Nazareth 42, McLean 33

Boys Region 1 Tournaments Class 6A Quarterfinals: Euless Trinity 58, North Crowley 55; Duncanville 61, DeSoto 60; Odessa Permian 39, El Paso Americas 33; Guyer 82, Mansfield Lake Ridge 66 Semifinals: Duncanville 71, Euless Trinity 50; Guyer 42, Odessa Permian 36 Finals: Duncanville 66, Guyer 62 Class 5A Quarterfinals: Palo Duro 65, Wichita Falls Rider 56; Northwest 47, White Settlement Brewer 43; Monterey 57, Caprock 54; Mansfield Timberview 52, Lewisville The Colony 35 Semifinals: Northwest 65, Palo Duro 54; Mansfield Timberview 64, Monterey 48 Finals: Mansfield Timberview 76, Northwest 65 Class 4A Quarterfinals: Estacado 84, Pampa 52; Decatur 78, Burkburnett 42; Levelland 46, Clint 44; Graham 47, Argyle 46 Semifinals: Decatur 52, Estacado 46; Levelland 48, Graham 46 Finals: Decatur 59, Levelland 32 Class 3A Quarterfinals: Spearman 51, Shallowater 48; Childress 51, Jim Ned 46; Brownfield 71, Abernathy 43; Brock 60, Holliday 25 Semifinals: Brock 67, Brownfield 52; Chidress 54, Spearman 47 Finals: Brock 58, Childress 40 Class 2A Quarterfinals: Wellington 66, New Deal 46; Tahoka 59, Plains 51; Gruver 56, Wheeler 48; Sundown 57, Haskell 44 Semifinals: Wellington 44, Tahoka 38; Gruver 55, Sundown 54 Finals: Gruver 44, Wellington 26 Class 1A Quarterfinals: McLean 56, White Deer 54; Borden County 75, New Home 57; Nazareth 63, Texline 37; Springlake-Earth 73, Petersburg 55 Semifinals: McLean 44, Borden County 30; Nazareth 61, Springlake-Earth 24 Finals: Nazareth 51, McLean 39

Girls State Tournaments Class 6A Semifinals: Converse Judson 58, Allen 47; DeSoto 58, Humble Summer Creek 49 Finals: Converse Judson 49, DeSoto 46 Class 5A Semifinals: Amarillo High 64, Fort Bend Hightower 53; Frisco Liberty 34, Kerrville Tivy 28 Finals: Amarillo High 47, Frisco Liberty 42 Class 4A Semifinals: Argyle 53, Dallas Lincoln 51; Hardin-Jefferson 49, Burnet 44 Finals: Argyle 49, Hardin-Jefferson 41 Class 3A Semifinals: Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill 53, Wall 49 (OT); Woodville 68, Poth 48 Finals: Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill 55, Woodville 46 Class 2A Semifinals: Martin’s Mill 49, Panhandle 47; Grapeland 61, Mason 54 Finals: Martin’s Mill 60, Grapeland 56 Class 1A Semifinals: Nazareth 48, Hermleigh 17; Dodd City 52, Moulton 33

Boys State Tournaments Class 6A Semifinals: Duncanville 63, Galena Park North Shore 56; Klein Forest 69, Cibolo Steele 60 Finals: Duncanville 73, Klein Forest 69 Class 5A Semifinals: Mansfield Timberview 79, Manor 55; San Antonio Wagner 62, Sulphur Springs 52 Finals: Mansfield Timberview 77, San Antonio Wagner 64 Class 4A Semifinals: Liberty Hill 53, Decatur 51; Oak Cliff Faith Family Academy 80, Houston Yates 74 Finals: Oak Cliff Faith Family Academy 53, Liberty Hill 51 Class 3A Semifinals: Brock 58, Winnie East Chambers 49; Dallas Madison 43, San Antonio Cole 33 Finals: Dallas Madison 49, Brock 48 Class 2A Semifinals: Gruver 55, Martin’s Mill 42; Shelbyville 83, Hearne 51 Finals: Shelbyville 67, Gruver 48 Class 1A Semifinals: Jayton 38, Nazareth 37; Slidell 47, Oakwood 45 Finals: Slidell 49, Jayton 36

Finals: Nazareth 54, Dodd City 33 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

High School

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Panhandle-Plains

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ST TEAM

Bryson Daily 6-1 Abernathy Sr.

Ethan Duncan 6-0 Trinity Christian Jr.

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Brendan Hausen 6-4 Amarillo High Soph. Super Teams

Maurice Carr 6-3 Crosbyton Sr.

Jalin Conyers 6-5 Gruver Sr.

Jelani Mohamed 6-0 Palo Duro Jr.

Daequan Tillman 6-4 Coronado Sr.

Camden Grant 6-2 Monterey Sr.

Ryan Jackson 6-2 Plainview Sr.

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ND TEAM

Isaiah Johnson 6-0 Tascosa Sr. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Basketball Super Teams

Lauren Catherman 5-8 Trinity Christian Sr.

Bailey Maupin 5-10 Gruver Soph.

2

ND TEAM

Lara Mason 6-0 Vega Sr. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Cambrie Heiman 6-0 Nazareth Sr.

Shaylee Stovall 5-7 Idalou Sr.

Adlee Blacklock 6-0 Trinity Christian Soph.

Jada Miller 5-10 Tascosa Sr.

1

ST TEAM

Zayla Tinner 5-11 Amarillo High Sr.

Maci Maddox 5-8 Frenship Sr.

Mia Trevino 5-9 Monterey Jr. Super Teams

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TEAMS AT A GLANCE PRESEASON PICKS

District 2-6A Boys 1. Odessa Permian 2. Frenship 3. Tascosa 4. Midland Lee 5. Midland High 6. Odessa High

District 2-6A Girls 1. Tascosa/Midland Lee 3. Frenship 4. Midland High 5. Odessa Permian 6. Odessa High

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HONOR ROLL

6A Boys Jordan Palmer, Frenship, 6-4, Sr.; Noble Robinson, Frenship, 6-3, Sr.; Drew Turnbow, Frenship, 6-6, Sr.; Dekendrick (DK) Alexander, Tascosa, 6-1, Sr.; Isaiah Johnson, Tascosa, 6-0, Sr.; Elijah Rodriguez, Tascosa, 5-9, Sr.; Donnie Sutton, Tascosa, 5-9, Sr.

6A Girls Ashlyn Caddel, Frenship, 5-8, Sr.; Maci Maddox, Frenship, 5-8, Sr.; Kaylee Rendon, Frenship, 5-7, Sr.; Jada Miller, Tascosa, 5-10, Sr.; Aubry Johnson, Tascosa, 5-7, Sr.; Jessalyn Gonzales, Tascosa, 5-6, Jr.; Daizjia Oages, Tascosa, 5-6, Fr.; Zamiyah Dickson, 5-7, Fr.

District 2-6A Tigers counting on experience

Frenship Boys

The Tigers are tired of seeing El Paso Americas in the playoffs. For the second straight year, Americas ended Frenship’s season in bidistrict, 55-48, last spring. That capped a 20-14 season for the Tigers. They had lost an overtime game in the finals of the Gene Messer Shootout and had finished fourth in District 2-6A with a 5-5 mark. “Last year was a good season that really allowed our younger players to grow and develop,” Coach Paul Page said. “We played several underclassmen, and they were able to contribute and gain valuable experience in some critical district games as well as in the playoffs.” First-team all-district Ja’Marqus Lewis and second-team alldistrict Javier Rios have moved on from that team. But Page has three starters and three other letter winners back from that club. Noble Robinson, a 6-3 senior guard, averaged 13 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists in earning second-team all-district distinction. Jastyn Garrett, a 6-3 junior guard (8 ppg, 4 rpg), was honorable mention all-district. Page tabs Robinson and Garrett as all-state candidates. He tagged Bryce Granado, a 6-0 senior guard (4 ppg, 2 rpg, 7 rpg), 6-4 senior forward Jordan Palmer (11 ppg, 7 rpg) and 6-6 senior forward Drew Turnbow as additional players to watch. Turnbow was injured last year. Robinson, Garrett, Granado and Palmer all lettered last season. So did 5-10 junior point guard Devin Hartfield (3 ppg, 4 apg) and 6-1 junior guard Jeb Smallwood (3 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg). The Tigers also have a transfer player in 6-5 senior forward Donivan Smith from Bishop Gorman High in Las Vegas, Nevada. Page views overall team depth, guard depth, experience, de76

6A

Noble Robinson

Jastyn Garrett

Bryce Granado

Drew Turnbow

Devin Hartfield

Jeb Smallwood

fensive mindset and an ability to play fast as the Tigers’ strengths. He is concerned about consistent perimeter shooting and overall team size. Page lists several keys for success this season. “Having a good balance of defensive intensity, playing uptempo on offense and decision-making within the offense,” he said. “Utilizing our depth at the guard at the guard position will be key to wearing down teams down late in games.” Page, a graduate of Aspermont High School and Angelo State (Continued on page 78) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Ashlyn Caddel Maci Maddox Kaylee Rendon Avery Walker-Henry Airron Gaydon Kendall Mahaney Hannah Page Riley Roberts Zaria Fowler Addison McClure

Frenship Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-3 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-9 P Soph. 5-9 P Soph.

Coach: Trent Hilliard Asst. Coaches: Sharon James, Lauren Abbott, Caleb Loper 2018-2019 record: 30-5, 9-1 School phone: 866-4440 Players to watch: Ashyln Caddel, Maci Maddox, Kaylee Rendon

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Bryce Granado Devin Hartfield Jeb Smallwood Jastyn Garrett Jordan Palmer Noble Robinson Solomon Pruitt Drew Turnbow Klein Coker Gabriel Sepeda Donivan Smith Tracy Godfrey

Frenship Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 G Sr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-1 G Jr. 6-3 G Jr. 6-4 F Sr. 6-3 G Sr. 6-3 F Sr. 6-6 F Sr. 6-2 G Jr. 5-6 G Sr. 6-5 F Sr. 6-5 F Soph.

Coach: Paul Page Asst. Coaches: C.J. Villegas, Sean Allen, Austin Williamson 2018-2019 record: 20-14, 5-5 School phone: 866-4440 Players to watch: Jordan Palmer, Noble Robinson, Drew Turnbow 6A

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(Continued from page 76)

University, is beginning his sixth season at the Wolfforth school and 22nd year overall. He previously coached at Rule, Olney, Roby and Seminole. His overall boys coaching record is 343-285. The Tigers will start their season at home Nov. 19 against Amarillo High. They’ll host the Gene Messer Shootout Dec. 5-7 and play in the Keller and Glen Rose tournaments. District play will begin Jan. 17 at home against Odessa High. Frenship Schedule

DATE Nov. 8 Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3

Opponent Randall Abilene Wylie Amarillo High HUB City Tip Off Classic Abilene Cooper Dalhart Abilene High Idalou Abilene Cooper

Place B G There X There X Here X X Here X There X Here X There X There X There X

Frenship Girls

Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 13 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 2-4 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Palo Duro Gene Messer Shootout Seminole Keller ISD Tournament Midland Greenwood Portales Lubbock Estacado Lubbock Cooper Caprock Tournament Glen Rose Tournament Canyon Snyder Abilene Wylie Odessa Permian Midland Lee Odessa High Tascosa Midland High Odessa Permian Midland Lee Tascosa Odessa High Midland High Odessa Permian Midland Lee

Here X Frenship X Here X There X Here Here There X Here X Lubbock There X Here Here X There X Here There Here X There X Here X There X Here X Here X There X There X Here X There X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Back-to-back 30-win seasons The Tigers turned in another remarkable campaign last season, winning 30 games for the second straight year, qualifying for the playoffs for the 17th consecutive season and winning, or sharing, the district title for the third straight year. The Tigers showed early promise of things to come when they reeled off 16 straight victories to start the season. They won at Amarillo High (the Lady Sandies later won the Class 5A state championship). They also won the Frenship and Burleson tournaments. In District 2-6A, Frenship won nine of 10 games to secure its first outright district championship since 2004. The Tigers shared the crown the previous two years. Frenship defeated El Paso Montwood 63-32 in bidistrict, but the season ended when a Richland player banked in a desperation 3-pointer at the buzzer to give Richland a 53-51 win in the area game. That terminated the Tigers’ season at 30-5. “We had a record-setting year,” Coach Trent Hilliard said. “Second consecutive 30-win season, qualified for the playoffs for the 17th consecutive season, three-peat district champions for the first time in school history.” Graduation hits were huge for the Tigers. Foremost departures were Cassandra Awatt, Abre Godfrey, Addison Wilson, Ashton Beeles and Avery Dear. Awatt was TGCA all-state, TGCA Legacy all-star and MVP of all three tournaments in which the Tigers played. She has signed to play with Southern Nazarene University. Godfrey and Wilson were first-team all-district. Beeles and Dear were second-team all-district. They were five of nine seniors on last year’s Tiger squad. When a coach loses nine seniors, the next year often is a rebuilding one. Not so with Hilliard. Although only one starter is returning, the Tigers have some talented returnees. Consider Maci Maddox, a 5-8 senior guard. She averaged 7.3 points, 3.8 rebounds and 5.7 assists in earning TGCA all-state, TABC all-region, district MVP, first-team all-district and second78 6A

Maci Maddox

Ashlyn Caddel

Airron Gaydon

Kaylee Rendon

Riley Roberts

team on the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal all-area team. Maddox, the lone returning starter, is an all-state candidate in Hilliard’s view. Maddox has started 108 consecutive games; Frenship is 86-22 in those games. There’s Ashlyn Caddel, a 5-8 senior guard (5.2 ppg), who was the co-winner of the district’s sixth player of the year award and also first-team all-district. Caddel and letter winner Kaylee Rendon, a 5-7 senior guard, are other outstanding players to watch, according to their coach. And Airron Gaydon, a 5-9 junior guard (4.1 ppg), was secondteam all-district. Gaydon and 5-8 junior guard Riley Roberts also lettered last year. Hilliard pinpointed the Tigers’ strengths as outside shooting and ball-handling. (Continued on next page)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

“We will have three or four point guards on the court most of the time,” he said. He’s concerned about the lack of height and other factors. “We don’t have much size, so we have to be fundamental in our rebounding and defense,” Hilliard said. “Are we still hungry? We have a target on our back because of our recent success, but this team can’t rest on past accomplishments.” The Tigers have three varsity players who will be coming over from the volleyball team and another player coming back from ACL surgery. “That hasn’t allowed us a lot of practice time, so we might be slow coming out of the gates this year,” he said. “Luckily, district play for us doesn’t start until Jan. 10, so we should be ready.” Shooting well from the outside and rebounding on the defensive end are two of Hilliard’s keys for success this season.

“If we can limit teams to one shot, we will be fine,” he said. “We will be a tough match-up for teams on the offensive end. If we can’t stop teams from scoring easy baskets, then we will struggle.” Hilliard was the sixth man on Lubbock Monterey’s regional finalist team that went 30-4 in 1984-85. The Texas Tech University graduate coached at Wellington from 1999 to 2001 and at Lubbock Cooper from 2005 to 2014. He’s beginning his sixth season at Frenship — and 17th overall as a head basketball coach — sporting a 358-189 career girls coaching record for a .654 winning percentage. So he has a 15-game lead on Frenship boys Coach Paul Page (343 wins). The Tigers will show their stripes first on Nov. 8 at Randall. The home opener will be Nov. 19 against Amarillo High. Frenship will play in its own Hub City Classic, Fort Worth Cowtown Classic and Lubbock Caprock Tournament.

Tascosa Boys

Rebels post another 20-win season You can just about count on the Rebels winning at least 20 games each year. Last season marked the sixth consecutive 20-plus season for Tascosa under Coach Steve Jackson. The Rebels won the consolation championship at the tough Keller ISD Tournament, then finished second in District 2-6A with a 7-3 record. Tascosa defeated El Paso Pebble Isaiah Johnson Hills for the second straight year in bidistrict, winning 66-57. Euless Trinity ended the Rebels’ season with a 64-45 decision in the area round. That capped a 21-10 campaign for the Rebs. Three key players — B.J. Anderson (first-team all-district), Payton Dickerson (first-team all-district) and Taevieon Gilbreath (second-team all-district) — have moved on from that squad. That leaves Jackson with two returning starters and two other experienced players. Isaiah Johnson, a 6-0 senior guard, was first-team all-district and the district defensive player of the year. Donnie Sutton, a 5-9 senior guard, also started last season. The two other returnees are 6-1 senior guard Dekendrick “DK” Alexander and 5-9 senior guard Elijah Rodriguez. Jackson lists all four as outstanding players to watch. “We aren’t really sure beyond those who will be on the varsity yet,” he said. The experience of the four returnees, speed and quickness are Rebel strengths, according to Jackson. He lists his areas of concern as youth, size, leadership and replacing the graduates. “Finding leadership among the returning players and meeting expectations” are the keys for success this season, Jackson said. Jackson is coaching at his alma mater, where he played on four playoff teams. He was an all-district player for the Rebels. At West Texas A&M University, he was the 2006 Lone Star 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Donnie Sutton

DK Alexander

Elijah Rodriguez

Conference defensive player of the year and WTAMU President’s Award winner. The Buffs won two LSC championships during Jackson’s playing days. He’s beginning his ninth season at Tascosa after serving as an assistant at Palo Duro for three years. His Rebels have won 178 games and lost 61 for a .745 winning percentage. In those six straight 20-plus seasons, the Rebs have posted a 145-38 mark, a .792 winning percentage.

Tascosa Super Boosters Go Kiyra and Lady Rebels!—Love ya! Have a great year! Play hard, have fun!—We love you, Mom, Dad, Carter, Jayler & Emeri We hope you have a great season this year, keep working hard!—Mom & Dad Go Lady Rebs! Have a great season!—Love, Aimee Work hard. Play hard. Pray hard. Super duper proud of y’all Ariyana!—Love, love, love you! God bless you!—Mom Have a great basketball season! So proud of you! God bless you!—Love you much, Mom Go Ty’Asia! I love you!—Mom 6A

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Tascosa Boys Name Ht. Pos. Class Dekendrick (DK) Alexander 6-1 G Sr. Isaiah Johnson 6-0 G Sr. Elijah Rodriguez 5-9 G Sr. Donnie Sutton 5-9 G Sr. Coach: Steve Jackson Asst. Coaches: Keenan Hooker, Jason Underwood, Jason Powers 2018-2019 record: 21-10, 7-3 School phone: 326-2656 Players to watch: Dekendrick (DK) Alexander, Isaiah Johnson, Elijah Rodriguez, Donnie Sutton DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 14-16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3

Opponent Palo Duro Burleson Centennial Tournament Abernathy Caprock Randall Childress Lubbock Coronado Lubbock Monterey Randall Lubbock Christian

Place B G Here X There X There X There X Here X Here X Here X There X There X There X

Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 13 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Amarillo High Knights of Columbus Tournament Granbury Tournament Nazareth Dalhart Keller ISD Tournament Amarillo High Midland Christian Panhandle Lubbock Estacado Byron Nelson Tournament Weatherford Tournament Dumas Wichita Falls Hirschi Gruver Canyon Lubbock Trinity Christian Midland Lee Odessa High Midland High Frenship Odessa Permian Midland Lee Odessa High Frenship Midland High Odessa Permian Midland Lee Odessa High

There X Dallas X There There There X There X There LCU X There There X Trophy Club X There Here Here X Here There There X There Here There X Here X There X Here X There X There X Here X Here X There X Here X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Tascosa Girls

Lady Rebels continue to rise The Lady Rebels erased a lengthy drought last season by reaching the regional semifinals. Tascosa won the Weatherford Christmas Tournament, then took second place in District 2-6A with a 7-3 record. In the playoffs, the Lady Rebels defeated El Paso Pebble Hills 60-36 in bidistrict, Fort Worth Trimble Tech 59-51 in the area game and El Paso Franklin 63-50 in the regional quarterfinals. They lost to South Grand Prairie 53-29 in the regional semifinals. That ended a fine 29-8 season for the Lady Rebels. “First time to reach regionals (semifinals) in 26 years,” Coach Betsy Baughman said. The Lady Rebels had lost in the regional quarterfinals the previous two years. Tayjanna Pleasant, who was the district offensive player of the year, all-region, all-state, and a member of the Amarillo Globe-News Girls Super and the AGN Class 6A Golden Spread teams, is the major departure from last year’s Tascosa team. Pleasant, who averaged 16 points, now is playing for Wayland Baptist University. First-team all-district Alexis Murguia also departed. Plenty of talent returns. Start with Jada Miller, a 5-10 senior guard, averaged 13.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists in earning first-team alldistrict honors last year. Aubry Johnson, a 5-7 senior guard (7.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg), was second-team all-district. Jessalyn Gonzales, a 5-6 junior guard (6.5 ppg, 3 rpg, 2.9 apg), was the co-winner of the district’s sixth player award. Baughman rates Miller, Johnson and Gonzales as all-state candidates. Two other players to watch are a pair of freshman guards: 5-6 Daizjia Oages and 5-7 Zamiyah Dickson. “They’re very talented,” Baughman said, “and they’re both on varsity.” 80

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Jada Miller

Daizjia Oages

Aubry Johnson

Jessalyn Gonzales

Zamiyah Dickson

She also has several experienced players in 6-0 senior post Ariyanna Emile (6.8 ppg, 5.2 rpg), 6-2 sophomore post D’Kierra Johnson (8.8 ppg), 5-10 sophomore post Ava Darnell (5.5 ppg, 5 rpg), 5-6 senior guard Jazmine Dickson (3.2 ppg, 2 rpg, 2.6 apg) and 5-8 junior guard Sabrya Marshall (6.4 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg). The Dicksons are sisters. Baughman described speed and quickness as the Lady Rebels’ strengths. She is concerned about experience. She said the keys for success this season will be “adjusting to (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Ariyanna Emile

Name Jada Miller Aubry Johnson Jessalyn Gonzales Ariyanna Emile D’Kierra Johnson Ava Darnell Jazmine Dickson Sabrya Marshall Trinite Travis Daizjia Oages Zamiyah Dickson

D’Kierra Johnson

Ava Darnell

Tascosa Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-6 G Jr. 6-0 P Sr. 6-2 P Soph. 5-10 P Soph. 5-6 G Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-6 G Fr. 5-7 G Fr.

Coach: Betsy Baughman Asst. Coaches: Sarah Allen, Karen Mendoza, Kyle Gumble 2018-2019 record: 29-8, 7-3 School phone: 326-2600 Players to watch: Jada Miller, Aubry Johnson, Jessalyn Gonzales, Daizjia Oages, Zamiyah Dickson

Jazmine Dickson

Sabrya Marshall

Trinite Travis

(the) physicalness of (the) game with our young players.” Baughman is beginning her eighth season at Tascosa and 17th overall as a head basketball coach. She has had success wherever she coached, winning more than 300 games. She guided Seagraves to state and Texas Cup championships and coached teams from Happy, Crawford, Merkel and Mineral Wells into regionals before coming to Tascosa. At Claude High School, she was on basketball and track teams that qualified for the regionals all four years. She was all-state, all-region, all-district and a Golden Spread all-star in basketball. She played for Coach Bob Schneider at West Texas A&M University. She is the mother of Brooke Walthall, Randall’s coach. Last season, mom’s team won 77-60. They’ll play Nov. 26 this season. Before that, the Lady Rebels will open at home Nov. 12 against Palo Duro. Later, they’ll play in the Burleson, Granbury and Weatherford tournaments. District 2-6A play begins Jan. 10.

Go JJ and The Lady Rebels!—The Brown Family Good Luck Riyah and the Lady Rebels!—Love, Mom & Dad We love you Elianna! We are so proud of you Sariah! We know you and your team will do great!—Love, Mom, Dad & Sister Good Luck Makaila! Have a great season!—Mom & Drayton Good luck this year Aubry!—Love, Dad, Mom, Bubba & Hitto Ty’Jee, I am looking forward to seeing you play high school basketball! Good luck!—Love always, your #1 Fan, Nana We wish you the best this year Issa!—Love, Momma, & Family Congratulations Daneshia Gipson!—Granny & Papa Holland We wish Michelle and her Rebel’s team an awesome season!—Paramount Jewelers Ohana, Westgate Mall Light it up Lily! Go Rebels! Go Alexis!—Love, Erin & Shannon McConnell Have an amazing season!—Love you, Mom & Dad My baby, you have been a baller since 3rd grade. It’s been a joy watching you play all these years, and especially your freshman year to join the Varsity Lady Rebels. I’m so proud of you and your team! Good Luck Lady Rebels!—Love, Jada’s Mom 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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TEAMS AT A GLANCE District 3-5A Boys 1. Amarillo High 2. Lubbock Monterey 3. Palo Duro 4. Lubbock Cooper 5. Lubbock Coronado 6. Randall 7. Plainview 8. Caprock 9. Lubbock High

District 3-5A Girls 1. Amarillo High 2. Lubbock Monterey 3. Lubbock Cooper 4. Plainview 5. Randall 6. Palo Duro 7. Caprock 8. Lubbock Coronado 9. Lubbock High

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HONOR ROLL 5A Boys Brendan Hausen, Amarillo High, 6-4, Soph.; Damonze Woods, Amarillo High, 6-6, Soph.; Owen Boyett, Amarillo High, 6-2, Jr.; Cade Hornecker, Amarillo High, 6-11, Soph.; Chris Dees, Amarillo High, 5-10, Jr.; Aidan Alvarez, Lubbock Coronado, 5-9, Sr., D’Aequan Tillman, Lubbock Coronado, 6-4, Sr.; Mason Petty, Lubbock Coronado, 6-2, Sr.; Andrew Stovall, Lubbock Coronado, 6-3, Sr.; Payton Blakenship, Lubbock Coronado, 6-3, Jr.; Tredarius Griffin, Lubbock Coronado, 6-1, Jr.; Cam Grant, Lubbock Monterey, Sr.; Devin White, Lubbock Monterey, Jr.; DJ Johnson, Lubbock Monterey, 6-0, Soph.; Kaje Lee, Palo Duro, 5-10, Sr.; Jelani Mohamed, Palo Duro, 6-0, Jr.; Thaddeus Udoh, Palo Duro, 6-4, Sr.; Austin Hauk, Plainview, 5-10, Jr.; Ryan Jackson, Plainview, 6-2, Sr.; Damarius White, Plainview, 5-10, Sr.

5A Girls Zayla Tinnner, Amarillo High, 5-11, Sr.; Ansleigh Westlake, Amarillo High, 5-7, Sr.; Gracie Bentley, Amarillo High, 5-9, Jr.; Rachel Haase, Amarillo High, 5-8, Jr.; Briley Barnes, Amarillo High, 6-0, Soph.; LaTavia Preciado, Caprock, 5-8, Soph.; Mariah Cordova, Caprock, 5-1, Soph.; Alana Strong, Caprock, 5-8, Soph., Tyanna Badillo, Caprock, 5-9, Sr.; Heaven Limon, Lubbock Monterey, 5-7, Fr.; Kelly Mora, Lubbock Monterey, 6-1, Fr.; Taysha Rushton, Lubbock Monterey, 5-4, Sr.; Maddi Stephens, Lubbock Monterey, 6-0, Sr.; Sydni Wagoner, Lubbock Monterey, 5-6, Sr.; LaShonda Stiger, Palo Duro, 5-5, Jr.; Aleea Miller, Palo Duro, 5-4, Soph.; Kiara Green, Palo Duro, 5-6, Sr.; Halima Salat, Palo Duro, 5-5, Jr.; Leyla Wright, Palo Duro, 5-7, Jr.; Kylie Bennett, Plainview, 5-9, Jr.; Osen Ellis, Plainview, 5-4, Sr.; Aspin Miller, Plainview, 5-8, Sr.; Aaliyiah Rogers, Plainview, 5-5, Sr.; Emily Sigala, Plainview, 5-2, Jr.; Cassidy Beck, Randall, 5-9, Sr.; Mariah Williams, Randall, 5-7, Jr.; Kailee Benton, Randall, 5-6, Soph.; Ainsley Velaquez, Randall, 5-10, Soph.

District 3-5A Sandies banking on key sophomores

Amarillo High Boys

The Sandies experienced a rare losing season in 2018-19, although they managed to split their district games. Look for an AHS bounce-back this season. Amarillo High went 14-21 last year and 8-8 in District 3-5A, finishing fifth. The Sandies missed the playoffs for the first time in many years. “We were very inexperienced, but I was very proud of how we were playing the second half of the season,” Coach Jason Pillion said. “Our seniors did a good job of leading our young kids and teaching our culture.” Those five seniors – Cooper McLain, Max Tarpley, Brady Barthelemy, Kyler Jackson and Will Dunavin — have moved on, but Pillion has two full-time sophomore starters and seven 82

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other letter winners returning. Brendan Hausen, a 6-4 sophomore guard, was district newcomer of the year and second-team all-district as a freshman. He averaged 13.4 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists. Pillion projects Hausen as an all-stater this season. Hausen is the son of Sandie assistant coach Benji Hausen. Damonze Woods, a 6-6 sophomore wing, is the other full-time returning starter. Woods chipped in 7.4 ppg, 5.4 rpg last year. Two other part-time starters — Chris Dees and Owen Boyett — are back. Dees, a 5-10 junior guard, posted 6.3 ppg, 2.2 rpg stats. Boyett, a 6-2 junior wing, contributed 4.2 ppg. Pillion picked Cade Hornecker, a 6-11 sophomore post, as another player to watch. (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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“We return 10 players who saw time in a varsity game last year,” Pillion said. “This team can shoot it well. We are still young but gained lots of experience last year.” Junior guard Slade Simpson, 5-10, is the son of former Sandie Lance Simpson and grandson of 1986 AHS state champion coach and Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame Brendan Hausen member Allen Simpson. Pillion’s concerns are limiting turnovers and valuing every possession. What are the keys for success this season? “We have good size and the makings of a solid defensive team if we rebound it consistently,” Pillion said. “I like our unselfishness. If we take care of the ball, take good shots and defend, we will be fine.” Pillion, a graduate of Abilene Cooper High School and West Texas A&M University, is beginning his 14th season at AHS. He previously was the head coach at Vega for a year and served as an assistant at WTAMU, Conroe and Amarillo High. He was an all-stater at Cooper and an all-conference selection at both South Plains College and WT. His Sandies will begin their season at Canyon Nov. 15. The home opener is Nov. 25 against Rockwall. Before that, AHS will play in the Justin Northwest Tournament. Later, the Sandies will play in the Mansfield and Allen events. District play begins Dec. 10.

Damonze Woods

Chris Dees

Owen Boyett

Cade Hornecker

Slade Simpson

Keaton Parker

Keldon Barbour

Daymien Arellano

Za Landry

Cade Hornecker blocks out a Plainview Bulldog in an Amarillo Sandie home game last season.

Name Brendan Hausen Damonze Woods Chris Dees Keaton Parker Keldon Barbour Daymien Arellano Owen Boyett Slade Simpson Brae Barnes Cade Hornecker

Amarillo High Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-4 G Soph. 6-6 F Soph. 5-10 G Jr. 6-2 F Sr. 6-1 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 6-2 F Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-5 F Jr. 6-11 P Soph.

Coach: Jason Pillion Asst. Coach: Benji Hausen 2018-2019 record: 14-21, 8-8 School phone: 326-2033 Players to watch: Brendan Hausen, Damonze Woods, Chris Dees, Owen Boyett, Cade Hornecker 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Keldon Barbour of Amarillo High goes to the basket against Tascosa in the crosstown rivalry last year.

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Amarillo High Girls Schedule

DATE Opponent Nov. 12 Nazareth Nov. 14-16 Frisco Mavs Tournament Nov. 19 Frenship Nov. 22 Estacado Nov. 26 Lubbock Cooper Dec. 3 Coronado Dec. 5-7 NEISD Tournament Dec. 10 Caprock Dec. 13 Tascosa Dec. 17 Plainview Dec. 20 Palo Duro Dec. 26-28 Mansfield Tournament Dec. 31 Midland High Jan. 3 Monterey Jan. 7 Randall Jan. 10 Lubbock High Jan. 14 Lubbock Cooper Jan. 17 Coronado Jan. 21 Caprock Jan. 24 Plainview Jan. 28 Palo Duro Feb. 4 Monterey Feb. 7 Randall Feb. 11 Lubbock High

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Place Here There There Here Here There San Antonio Here Here There Here There TBA There Here There There Here There Here There Here There Here

Amarillo High Boys Schedule

DATE Opponent Nov. 15 Canyon Nov. 19 Frenship Nov. 21-23 Justin Northwest Tournament Nov. 25 Rockwall Nov. 26 Wylie Dec. 3 Tascosa Dec/ 5-7 Mansfield Tournament Dec. 10 Caprock Dec. 17 Plainview Dec. 20 Palo Duro Dec. 26-28 Allen Tournament Jan. 3 Lubbock Monterey Jan. 7 Randall Jan. 10 Lubbock High Jan. 14 Lubbock Cooper Jan. 17 Coronado Jan. 21 Caprock Jan. 24 Plainview Jan. 28 Palo Duro Feb. 4 Lubbock Monterey Feb. 7 Randall Feb. 11 Lubbock High Feb. 14 Lubbock Cooper Feb. 18 Coronado

Place There There TBA Here Here Here TBA Here There Here There There Here There There Here There Here There Here There Here Here There

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Amarillo High Girls

Lady Sandies seek charming third time The Lady Sandies will seek a three-peat of Class 5A state championships this season. That will be a rugged road to travel, but Amarillo High, fueled by two returning starters and seven other letter winners, may be able to complete the trip. If the journey is successful, it may depend on the play of 5-11 senior guard/wing Zayla Tinner. Tinner led last year’s team in scoring (18.2 points per game), rebounds (5.6 per game) and assists (2.9 per game). She was TABC and TGCA all-state, the MVP on both the Amarillo Globe-News Girls Super Team and the AGN Class 6A-5A Golden Spread team, the TABC 5A player of the year, the district MVP (for the second straight year) and the regional tournament MVP. Ansleigh Westlake, a 5-7 senior wing/guard, is the other returning starter. She contributed 4.2 ppg and earned all-district honorable mention last season. Seven other Lady Sandies saw varsity action on the title team that went 37-4. “This year’s team has lots of experience back from last year’s team,” Coach Jeff Williams said. “We graduated a very good senior class but have many players back that played lots of minutes last season and many that played big minutes throughout the playoffs and state tournament.” Last year’s senior class featured starters Ashlyn Milton, Madison Stokes and Brooke Urban along with top sub Tatym Barnes. Milton was the state tournament MVP for the second straight year, TABC and TGCA all-state, AGN Girls Super first team, 6A-5A Golden Spread first team and first-team all-district. Stokes earned first-team all-district distinction. Urban and Barnes both were second- team all-district. The 2018-19 Lady Sandies won the NEISD Tournament in San Antonio, finished fourth in the Frisco tourney and came in fifth in the Mansfield event. They won all 16 games in District 3-5A to capture their fifth straight district championship (they shared one). AHS had several close calls in the playoffs, including 68-66 over The Colony in the regional semifinals and 47-45 over Mansfield Timberview in the regional finals. In San Antonio, the Lady Sandies whipped Fort Bend Hightower 64-53 in the state semifinals and nipped Liberty 47-42 in the finals. “Last season was very rewarding because we faced many challenges and were able to overcome them to win a second state championship,” Williams said. “The way the team battled throughout a very tough district schedule and playoff run showed just how tough the team was mentally. We were able to win many close games, which was one of the special things about our team.” Williams has built a dynasty at his high school alma mater. In addition to the two state championships, his last four teams have registered 146 wins and only 13 losses. And playing for the Lady Sandies has become a family tradition. For example, 5-5 senior wing Kaylee Self’s mother played on the AHS 1993 and 1994 state championship teams; Navea Tipton, expected to be on the team this season, is the sister of (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Zayla Tinner

Ansleigh Westlake

Kaylee Self

Daisha Johnson

Ansley McCubbin

Makenzie Watts

Gracie Bentley

Rachel Haase

Abby Rodriguez

Name Zayla Tinner Ansleigh Westlake Gracie Bentley Rachel Haase Briley Barnes Kaylee Self Abby Rodriguez Aubrie Rankin Daisha Johnson Ansley McCubbin Ellie Frye Makenzie Watts Amaia Chiles Zeryhia Aokuso

Amarillo High Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-11 G/F Sr. 5-7 G/F Sr. 5-9 G/F Jr. 5-8 F Jr. 6-0 F Soph. 5-5 F Sr. 5-5 G/F Jr. 5-8 F Jr. 5-8 F Sr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-5 G Soph. 5-10 P Sr. 5-8 F Jr. 5-9 F Fr.

Coach: Jeff Williams Asst. Coaches: Trent Lankford, Justin Hebert, Kristi Thompson 2018-2019 record: 37-4, 16-0 School phone: 326-2118 Players to watch: Zayla Tinner, Ansleigh Westlake, Gracie Bentley, Rachel Haase, Briley Barnes 5A

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Kae’la Tipton, a senior last year; and Zayla Tinner is the sister of Sidney Tinner, who will be playing for Division II Emporia, Kansas, State University this season. Williams made a clean sweep of the coach of the year honors — the AGN Girls Super Team, the 6A-5A Golden Spread and District 3-5A — last season. He coached at Dumas for seven years before returning to AHS. The West Texas A&M University grad owns a 21-year girls coaching record of 529-200, a .726 winning percentage. As he begins his 15th season at AHS, Williams said, “Playing together is a strength of this team because they trust each other to hold their part of the rope. This team shoots the basketball very well. Depth should also be a strength of this team again this year.” His teams employ full-court pressure defense. His main concern is maintaining the high level of success the Lady Sandies have achieved with that defense the past few years. What are Williams’ keys for success this season? “We need to win the rebound battle this year,” he said. “I believe we have the commitment to being a strong rebounding team; we just have to make going to the boards and getting a body on defensively a priority.” The Lady Sandies will open Nov. 9 at Hereford. They’ll debut at AHS Nov. 12 against defending state 1A champion Nazareth. Amarillo High will play in the Frisco Mavs, San Antonio NEISD and Mansfield tournaments. District 3-5A play opens early, on Nov. 26.

Aubrie Rankin

Ellie Frye

Amaia Chiles

Briley Barnes

Zeryhia Aokuso

Caprock Boys

Horns follow big season with little experience Youth will be served. That appears to be the theme for the Longhorns this season as their roster is dotted with underclassmen. Caprock had a fine 2018-19 season. The Longhorns won both Canyon’s Kids Inc. and Midland’s Tall City Oilman’s tournaments. They went 13-3 in District 3-5A, finishing in a tie for second place. In the playoffs, Coach Reggie Gibbs’ squad defeated Aledo 62-38 in bidistrict and El Paso Parkland 74-47 in the area round. Caprock capped its overall season at 28-6 by suffering a close 57-54 defeat to Lubbock Monterey in the regional quarterfinals. Monterey blocked a last-second 3-point shot that would have tied the game. Nevertheless, that marked the third straight year the Longhorns had made the playoffs under Gibbs. And his three Caprock teams have compiled a 74-28 won-lost record. But graduation took its toll on Caprock’s fortunes. Five honored seniors and three other players from last year’s team have departed. The honored players were: First-team all-district Chris Wilson; First-team all-district Tuon Gatkek; Second-team all-district Jalyn Washington; Second-team all-district Danielle Daniel; Honorable-mention all-district Christian Urenda. Lenox Archie, Jay Gaines and Davyjon Ford are the other departures. So that leaves Gibbs with a roster of two seniors, four juniors, 86

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seven sophomores and one freshman. There are four forwards and 10 guards listed. It looks like a whole new team. Team speed will be the Longhorns’ strength, according to Gibbs. He is concerned about leadership, the lack of varsity experience and the lack of size. (Continued on next page)

Caprock Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-1 F Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 6-0 G Jr. 6-1 F Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-6 G Jr. 5-7 G Soph. 6-1 G Soph. 5-10 G Soph. 6-4 F Soph. 5-10 G Soph. 6-3 F Soph. 6-2 G Soph. 6-0 G Fr.

Name Cameron Martin Sengi Anderson Joe Elizardo Te-Andre Glass Tony Portillo Elijah Carter Niyo Edimo Marcos Barrientes Juvenale Ndayishimiye Kobi Hill Izayah Hernandez Yel Deeng Keifer Garrett Jaden Chavez

Coach: Reggie Gibbs Asst. Coaches: Jason Brown, Robert Soleyjacks, Ty Stout 2018-2019 record: 28-6, 13-3 School phone: 326-2243 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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The key to success this season will be “to improve each practice and game,” he said. In high school Gibbs started at Lubbock Estacado, where he twice led the Lubbock area in scoring with 23.5 and 28.5 points per game. He was district sophomore of the year in 1983. He began his college career at South Plains College, where he was an all-conference all-tournament team selection. He moved on to Houston Baptist University and set back-to-back single-game scoring records of 43 points. He finished his collegiate career at Louisiana Tech University, earning newcomer of the year honors. He’s beginning his fourth season at Caprock and 20th overall as a head basketball coach. He coached at Lubbock High School, Slaton, Morton, Olton, Sul Ross State University, BrookshireRoyal, Belton and Tahoka. The Horns will open the season by playing host to Tascosa on Nov. 19. They’ll play in the Hereford Herd Classic, Tall City Oilman’s Tournament and Monahans Chamber of Commerce event. Their District 3-5A opener is Dec.10 at Amarillo High.

DATE Nov. 5 Nov. 8 Nov. 12

Caprock Schedule

Opponent Perryton Borger Canyon

Place B G There X Here X There X

Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 20-23 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 11 Jan. 11 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Panhandle Tascosa Dumas Flower Mound Tournament Odessa High Plainview Midland Lee Palo Duro Hereford Hereford Herd Classic Glen Rose Tournament Amarillo High Tall City Oilman’s Tournament Monterey Randall Chamber of Commerce Tourney Canadian Tournament Lubbock High Cooper Coronado Clovis Tascosa Plainview Palo Duro Amarillo High Monterey Randall Lubbock High Cooper Coronado Plainview Palo Duro

There Here X Here There Here X There There X Here Here X There X There There X Midland X Here X There X Monahans X There Here X There X Here X Here There X Here X There X Here X Here X Here X There X Here X There X There X Here X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Caprock Girls

Lady Horns’ youth has coach all Smiley There must be something in the water at Caprock High. The Lady Longhorns are just about as young as their Longhorn counterparts. Two seniors, five juniors, five sophomores and one freshman make up the Lady Longhorns’ 2019-20 roster. Coach David Smiley sees the bright side of his team’s overall youth. Tyanna Badillo “We will be young and be able to play with some speed and quickness with this year’s team,” he said. “We are going to use this to our advantage.” Of course, there’s a downside to having inexperienced players. “Experience scares me as a coach. We have only four returning players, and only three have experience,” Smiley said. “We will have to outwork our opponents, because we are also small.” Last season the Lady Horns took some small steps toward becoming more competitive in the rugged District 3-5A. Caprock finished 6-10 in conference play, a slight improvement over the previous year’s 4-8. The seventh-place district finish didn’t earn the Lady Horns a playoff berth. Still, as Smiley said, “Two games out — getting closer every year!” He calls District 3-5A “the district of death” because the last five Class 5A state champions all have resided in 3-5A. Amarillo High won the last two years, and Canyon took the 5A state the previous three years. Canyon actually won state four years in a row, but its 2014 title was in Class 4A. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Mariah Cordova

LaTavia Preciado

Alana Strong

“Each game is such a tough competition from top to bottom. One or two bad nights in this district, and you are out of the race,” Smiley said. “We swept PD (Palo Duro) for the first time in a long time, and we beat a talented Randall team at Randall.” In pre-district tournaments, Caprock won the consolation championship in Abilene, finished second at Glen Rose and took the consolation title at Gruver. Overall, the Lady Horns wound up 14-15 last season, just a slight drop-off from the previous year’s 16-16 mark. Two Sydneys from that team have departed. Sydney Johnson was a three-year starter and two-time second-team all-district selection. Sydney McColl was an all-district honorable mention and now is playing for Frank Phillips College. Emily Nelson and Isabel Arjon, who both provided leadership, also are gone. Seniors Tyanna Badillo and Karaya Darnes are two of the four returning letter winners. (Continued on next page) 5A

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Badillo, a 5-9 forward, averaged 12.3 point, 8 rebounds and 2.4 assists last season. Smiley sees his lone returning starter as an all-state candidate this season. Darnes, a 5-9 forward/post, contributed 2.2 ppg, 4.3 rpg coming off the bench. Ashia Wright, a 5-8 junior forward (4.5 ppg, 6 rpg), also lettered last year. Smiley tabs three other players as additional ones to watch: Letter winner Mariah Cordova, a 5-11 sophomore guard (4.5 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 3 apg); Alana Strong, a 5-8 sophomore guard/forward; LaTavia Preciado, a 5-8 sophomore guard/wing. Smiley outlined several keys for Caprock’s success this season. “Playing fast and keeping our energy and excitement up,” he said. “Being able to execute on defense will also be a big factor.” Smiley was an all-district player at River Road High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree at West Texas A&M University and a master’s from Concordia University in Portland, Oregon. He’s currently working on his doctorate from Concordia. He’s beginning his sixth season at Caprock and 10th overall as a head basketball coach. His previous assignments were at River Road, Levelland, Rosebud-Lott, Rockdale, Temple, White Deer and Tascosa.

Caprock Super Boosters Go Best!—A.T. T Me Up Longhorns Keep being Amazing Nina!—Love, Mom & Dad Let’s Go Longhorns! Have a great season Aliyiah!—Love, Sylvia Go Viviana Go! We all Love You! We wish the Lady Longhorns Good Luck this season!—El Charro Mexican Food, 4207 I-40 E Rock on Lady Horns! Go T! Lady Longhorns all the way!—Love, Mom Let’s Go Lady Longhorns! Get Buckets! Good Luck Lady Longhorns! Go Nevaeh! We want the Very Best for the Lady Longhorns!—Taquera Rivera, 2602 SE 3rd Go Meli!—The Duran Family

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Keyanna Williams

Ashia Wright

Elayna Martinez

Nevaeh Cummins

D’Koda Martin

Vanessa Byrd

Name Nevaeh Cummins LaTavia Preciado Mariah Cordova Keyanna Williams Kayla Villareal Alana Strong D’Koda Martin Tyanna Badillo Ashia Wright Sherifatu Sherrif Karaya Darnes Vanessa Byrd Elayna Martinez

Caprock Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-3 G Soph. 5-8 G/F Soph. 5-1 G Soph. 5-7 F Jr. 5-7 F Jr. 5-8 G/F Soph. 5-7 G/F Soph. 5-9 F Sr. 5-8 F Jr. 6-0 F/P Jr. 5-9 F/P Sr. 5-9 F Fr. 5-10 F/P Jr.

Coach: David Smiley Asst. Coaches: Bradley Jenkins, Ellen Reid, Krista Strange 2018-2019 record: 14-15, 6-10 School phone: 326-2200 Players to watch: Tyanna Badillo, Mariah Cordova, Alana Strong, LaTavia Preciado

Go Kyra! Have a great season! Go Alexia!—Velasquez Construction We wish the Lady Longhorns a great season! Go Lady Longhorns!—The Arjon Family

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Coronado Boys

Ex-PD standout new Mustang coach The Mustangs have a new coach. Former Palo Duro standout Ernest Mims takes over from Layne Sheets, who stepped down to become the superintendent at Dawson ISD. Sheets had a successful two-year run at Coronado. His Mustangs went 44-24 overall and 21-5 in district play, making the playoffs both years. In fact, Coronado has qualified for postseason play 18 straight years. Sheets’ Mustangs were 22-13 last season, finishing fourth in District 3-5A with an 11-5 mark. Coronado lost to Wichita Falls Rider 79-62 in bidistrict, Mims, who was an all-district player at Palo Duro, comes to Coronado from Winona, where he was named the District 16-3A coach of the year based on Winona’s 18-win season and playoff appearance. Before his year at Winona, Mims spent two seasons as the head coach at Springtown. The Eastern New Mexico University grad began his coaching career as an assistant at Vernon, Wichita Falls High, then Palo Duro. “Varsity experience will be an area of concern,” Mims said of this season’s squad. “Last year’s team graduated 10 seniors.” Foremost among those departed seniors were first-team alldistrict selections Caleb Wilborn and Michael Garza. Only two letter winners return. Daequan Tillman, a 6-4 senior guard, and Aidan Alvarez, a 5-9 senior guard and team captain,

D’Aequan Tillman

Aidan Alvarez

Andrew Stovall

Mason Petty

Javien Weatherly

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Lubbock Coronado Boys Name Ht. Pos. Class Aidan Alvarez 5-9 G Sr. Daequan Tillman 6-4 G Sr. Mason Petty 6-2 G Sr. John Jabor 6-0 G Sr. Logan Luce 6-2 F Sr. Javien Weatherly 5-10 G Sr. Kevon Evans 5-8 G Soph. T’Andre Evans 6-3 F Soph. Andrew Stovall 6-3 F Sr. Payton Blakenship 6-3 G Jr. Tredarius Griffin 6-1 G Jr. Corey Rivers 6-1 G Jr. Izaiah Kelley 6-2 F Jr. Donovon Yacub 5-10 G Jr. Coach: Ernest Mims Asst. Coaches: Jonathan Gomez, Colton Stegall, Klay Keith 2018-2019 record: 22-13, 11-5 School phone: 219-1117 Players to watch: Aiden Alvarez, D’Aequan Tillman, Mason Petty, Andrew Stovall, Payton Blankenship, Tredarius Griffin 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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both saw varsity action last year. In addition to Tillman and Alvarez, Mims designated 6-3 senior forward Andrew Stovall, 6-3 junior guard Payton Blakenship, 6-2 senior guard Mason Petty and 6-1 junior guard Tredarius Griffin as outstanding players to watch. “This year’s team strengths will be our guard play, depth and we have guys that can defend,” Mims said.

“The keys to our success is making sure our leaders step up and lead, playing defense and being able to handle adversity.” After participating in a scrimmage involving 10 teams in Abilene and another four-teamer in Andrews, the Mustangs will officially open their season Nov. 19 at Midland High. Later, they’ll play in Frenship’s Gene Messer Tournament and events in Decatur and Lubbock (Caprock). District 3-5A play begins Dec.10.

Coronado Girls

Lady Mustangs seek to bounce back After missing the playoffs the past two seasons, the Lady Mustangs hope to return to postseason play this year. Coronado struggled through a 5-27 season in 2018-19, finishing ninth in District 3-5A with a 1-9 mark. “We lacked team chemistry to produce as well as we needed,” Coach Kriss Ethridge said. Ayanna Segrest, a two-time all-stater, was the key departure from last year’s team. However, there are some notable returnees. “Chantal Pervis and Taegan Ramos were freshmen who we will rely on heavily this year,” Ethridge said. Pervis is a 5-10 sophomore post/forward. Ramos, a 5-3 sophomore guard, started last season. Taylor Tadlock, a 5-7 senior forward, also started last year. So Ethridge has two returning starters and five other letter

winners as she begins her 11th season at Coronado with a 155136 girls coaching record, all achieved with the Lady Mustangs. “Although we will still be young, this group of girls is hungry to get back to the Coronado winning ways,” she said. Ethridge knows some things about winning. She played on a state championship team at Lubbock Monterey and a national title team at the University of Texas. As for the keys for success this season, Ethridge said, “We need to have good chemistry and commit to outworking our opponents.” The Lady Mustangs will open Nov. 8 at Midland. The home opener will be Nov. 19 against Odessa Permian. They’ll play in the Abilene Polk Key, Granbury and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District 3-5A play begins Dec. 3.

Lubbock Coronado Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Carolina Cognasi 5-8 F Sr. Kai McGrew 5-6 F Sr. Taylor Tadlock 5-7 F Sr. Autumn Hiler 5-8 F Sr. Savannah Holstein 5-5 G Jr. Taegan Ramos 5-3 G Soph. Ali Martinez 5-6 G Soph. Chantal Pervis 5-10 P/F Soph. Coach: Kriss Ethridge Asst. Coaches: Zayne McPherson, Kelsey Hoppel, Kelli Carpenter, Ragan Smith 2018-2019 record: 5-27, 1-9 School phone: 219-1122

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DATE Nov. 8 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 13 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 31 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Lubbock Coronado Schedule

Opponent Midland High Shallowater Abilene High Permian Midland High Polk Key Tournament San Angelo Central Tascosa Palo Duro Amarillo High Midland Lee Gene Messer Tournament Granbury Tournament Monterey Decatur Tournament Estacado Randall Lubbock High Lubbock Cooper Caprock Tournament Lubbock Cooper Caprock Plainview Palo Duro Amarillo High Monterey Monterey Randall Lubbock High Lubbock High Lubbock Cooper Caprock Plainview Palo Duro Amarillo High

Place B G There X There X There X Here X There X Abilene X Here X There X There X Here X There X Frenship X There X There X X There X There X Here X X There X X Here X Lubbock X X Here X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X Here X There X X There X Here X There X X Here X X There X X There X Here X

Taylor Tadlock

Taegan Ramos

Kai McGrew

Savannah Holstein

Camille Weindorf

Monterey Boys

A banner season for Plainsmen, coach Jeremy McFerrin’s second season as the Plainsmen’s coach was a big success. And he got to celebrate his 200th career coaching victory. In McFerrin’s first year at Monterey, his team went 12-20 and tied for second in the district at 5-5. Last year showed a big jump forward — a 29-9 overall record and a second-place tie in the district, but this time with a 13-3 conference mark in a different district. With the Plainsmen’s ninth win of the season — in the San Angelo Tournament in late November — McFerrin picked up win No. 200. He now owns 220 to go along with 85 losses, a .721 winning percentage. Before coming to Monterey, McFerrin was the head coach at Lubbock Trinity Christian for six years. In 2017, his Lions won the TAPPS Class 4A state championship. McFerrin, a graduate of Cotton Center High School and Texas Tech University, lauded the efforts of last year’s team. “Guys on the team came together as one and believed in each other,” McFerrin said. “Everyone competes against each other and for each other. We start our season out with a retreat the first weekend of official practice to bond as a team.” Qua Butler, first-team all-district and all-region, and all-district honorable mentions Austyn Sanchez and Adonis Jarmillo have moved on from last season’s squad. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Cam Grant

Devin White

D.J. Johnson

McFerrin has two honored starters — Cam Grant and Devin White — and six other letter winners back this season. Grant, a 6-2 senior guard/forward, averaged 10.7 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists last season and was first-team all-district. White, a 5-11 junior guard, chipped in 6.1 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 3 apg and was second-team all-district. McFerrin considers Grant and White to be all-state candidates. Those two, plus 6-2 sophomore forward Dewayne “DJ” Johnson, are his outstanding players to watch. McFerrin described the Plainsmen’s strengths as the desire to compete every play and support one another. He also praised the (Continued on next page)

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Plainsmen Pals support group present at home and away games. He is concerned about health and height. What are the keys to success this season? “Everyone staying healthy and becoming the best player they can be as an individual,” McFerrin said. “Then taking their skills and humbling themselves to give up individual honors for team honors — accepting the role the team needs them to fulfill.” The Plainsmen will play host to a 10-team scrimmage on Nov. 9. They’ll open the regular season Nov. 16 at home against Wichita Falls High. They’ll play in the San Antonio, Mansfield and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District 3-5A play begins Dec. 10.

Albert Valderas

Lubbock Monterey Boys Name Ht. Pos. Class Cam Grant 6-2 G/F Sr. Devin White 5-11 G Jr. Albert (LA) Valderas 6-0 G Sr. Tyrie Tipton 5-11 G Sr. Donavaughn Hill 6-1 F Sr. 5-11 G Jr. Vance Vasquez 6-2 F Soph. Dewayne (DJ) Johnson Aidan Castillo 6-0 G Soph. Jessie Martinez 6-3 F Jr.

Tyrie Tipton

Vance Vasquez

Donavaughn Hill

Aidan Castillo

Coach: Jeremy McFerrin Asst. Coaches: Josh Davis, Logan Mitchell, Josue Espinoza, Tim McCutchen 2018-2019 record: 29-9, 13-3 School phone: 219-1929 Players to watch: Cam Grant, Devin White, DJ Johnson

DATE Nov. 8 Nov. 12 Nov. 14-16 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 6 Dec. 10

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Lubbock Monterey Schedule

Opponent Seminole Estacado Frisco Tournament Wichita Falls High Abilene High San Angelo Central San Antonio NEISD Tournament Brownfield Lubbock High Tascosa Midland High Lubbock Cooper Mansfield Tournament Midland Lee Coronado

Place B G Here X There X There X Here X TBD X Here X There X There X Here X Here X Here X There X There X Here X Here X X

Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Tall City Oilman Tournament Caprock Plainview Caprock Tournament Palo Duro Amarillo High Hereford Randall Lubbock High Lubbock Cooper Coronado Caprock Plainview Palo Duro Amarillo High Randall Lubbock High Lubbock Cooper

Midland There X Here X Lubbock X There X Here X Here X There X There X Here X There X Here X There X Here X There X Here X Here X There X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Monterey Girls

Lady Plainsmen aim to make amends The Lady Plainsmen came oh-so-close to making the playoffs last season. After two straight 20-win seasons, Monterey wound up 1716 last year. In District 3-5A, the Lady Plainsmen finished sixth with a 7-9 mark. “We were much closer to being a possible playoff team than what it sounds like,” Coach Jill Rankin Schneider said. “If we’d have beaten Randall in our last district game, we’d have been in a three-way tie for fourth. We lost to Randall in overtime.” This season may be different. Nicole Marmolejo and Zay Willis were the only seniors on last year’s squad, so Schneider has all five starters back, plus a talented transfer to boot. Mia Trevino, a 5-9 junior forward, averaged 11.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists last season and earned first-team alldistrict distinction. Maddi Stephens, a 6-0 senior post (9.6 ppg, 6.9 rpg), and Sydni Wagoner, a 5-6 senior guard (13.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.7 apg), both were second-team all-district picks. Alyssa Trevino, a 5-2 senior guard (5.6 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 3.5 apg) was an all-district honorable mention. The fifth returning starter is 5-9 senior forward Trayci Jackson (6.8 ppg, 5.2 rpg). If they match their scoring totals from last season, those five would total 47 points per game.

Mia Trevino

Maddi Stephens

Sydni Wagoner

Alyssa Trevino

Trayci Jackson

Taysha Rushton

Add Taysha Rushton to the mix. Rushton is a 5-4 senior guard who transferred from Midland High, where she was a District 2-6A first-teamer and TGCA all-stater last season. (Continued on next page)

Lubbock Monterey Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Zyandrious Brooks 5-7 G Sr. Domonique Bunton 5-7 F Jr. Kamryn Collins 5-9 F Sr. Trayci Jackson 5-9 F Sr. Heaven Limon 5-7 G Fr. Kelly Mora 6-1 P Fr. Taysha Rushton 5-4 G Sr. Maddi Stephens 6-0 P Sr. Alyssa Trevino 5-2 G Sr. Mia Trevino 5-9 F Jr. Sydni Wagoner 5-6 G Sr. Mia Williams 6-0 P Sr. Coach: Jill Rankin Schneider Asst. Coaches: Kelsey Canavan, Ashley James, Shayla Torres, Cathy Palmer 2018-2019 record: 17-16, 7-9 School phone: 219-2046 Players to watch: Taysha Rushton, Maddi Stephens, Heaven Limon, Kelly Mora, Sydni Wagoner 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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Heaven Limon

Kelly Mora

Zy Brooks

Kamryn Collins

Mia Williams

Domonique Bunton

(Continued from previous page)

Schneider sees Rushton, Trevino and Stephens as all-state candidates. Wagner and a pair of freshmen – 5-7 guard Heaven Limon and 6-1 post Kelly Mora – are other outstanding players to watch, she said. Versatility, guard play and size are the Lady Plainsmen’s strengths, according to their coach. Also, team chemistry and unselfish play will be the keys for success this season. Schneider is one of the best female basketball players to come out of the Texas Panhandle. She averaged 40.7 points in her high school career at Phillips. Her high school team reached the state semifinals in 1975 and won it all in ‘76. Then she played in

Final Fours at both Wayland Baptist University (1978) and the University of Tennessee (1980). She was co-captain of the 1980 U.S. Olympic team that didn’t play because of the U.S. boycott. Schneider is a member of the Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame. She is beginning her 22nd season at Monterey and 34th year in coaching. Before coming to Monterey, she coached at Borger from 1986-98. The Lady Plainsmen will open their season at home Nov. 8 against Seminole. They’ll play in the Frisco, Tall City Oilman (Midland) and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District 3-5A has an early start (Nov. 26) for conference games.

Palo Duro Boys

Dons keep dominating The Dons kept their impressive streaks alive last season, recording their fifth straight 20-plus win season and making the playoffs for the 18th year in a row. Palo Duro was undefeated in non-district play and took the District 3-5A title with a 14-2 record. The Dons’ only two conference losses were by a total of five points on the road. In the playoffs, the Dons defeated Abilene Cooper 68-46 in bidistrict, El Paso Eastwood 66-45 in the area round and Wichita Falls Rider 65-56 in the regional quarterfinals. Justin Northwest ended PD’s season with a 65-54 decision in the regional semifinals. The 27-3 campaign marked a continued period of excellence under Coach Jeff Evans, who was named the Amarillo GlobeNews Golden Spread 6A-5A coach of the year last season. In the past six years, Evans’ PD teams have won 124 and lost only 25. Evans has a career boys coaching record of 528-181 for a .745 winning percentage. The Lubbock Christian High School and Texas Tech University graduate was an assistant coach at Lubbock Coronado and head coach at Abilene High before moving to Palo Duro. He’s beginning his 20th season at PD. The Dons suffered some major losses via graduation from last year’s team. The key departure was Akuel Kot, who scored about 25 points per game as a senior. He was the district MVP, all-region, on the AGN Boys Super Team and the player of the year for the 6A-5A Golden Spread team. He signed to play at Fort Lewis, Colorado, College. Two other first-team all-district honorees — Mohamed Musa and Bonaventure Udoh — also departed. Several players who saw some starts last year, including 6-0 junior guard Jelani Mohamed, second-team all-district last year, are back. 94 5A

Jelani Mohamed

Thaddeus Udoh

Kaje Lee

Braedyn Harley

Mou Mou

Kadden Price

Thaddeus Udoh, a 6-4 senior guard and younger brother of the departed Bonaventure Udoh, and Kaje Lee, a 5-10 senior guard, are other players to watch, according to Evans. The Dons have eight letter winners returning. Thaddeus Udoh and 6-0 senior guard Braedyn Harley have lettered twice. Palo Duro has reached the regionals three straight seasons. That experience, plus the team’s work ethic, rank as the Dons’ strengths, according to Evans. (Continued on page 96)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 16 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Nov. 29-30 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 10 Dec. 13 Dec. 13 Dec. 14 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 27 Dec. 28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Palo Duro Schedule

Opponent Midland Lee Tascosa Abilene Cooper Stratford Flower Mound Tournament Seminole Abilene Wyle Rockwall Coronado Fantasy of Lights Tournament Frenship Caprock Plainview Albuquerque Eldorado Wellington Albuquerque Manzano Amarillo High Duncanville Tournament Haltom North Mesquite Monterey Randall Lubbock High Cooper Coronado Caprock Plainview Amarillo High Monterey Randall Lubbock High Cooper Coronado Caprock

Place B G There X There X LCHS X Here X There X LCU X Here X Here X Here X Wichita Falls X There X There X Here X X There X Here X There X There X X There X There X There X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X There X

Name Kaje Lee Braedyn Harley Kadden Price Jelani Mohamed Thaddeus Udoh Cutter Camp Mou Mou Matson Camp Greyson Camp Kayden Tinnin Anthony Randle Dondray DeGrate Michael Udoh Jay Miles Gerrius Franklin Nice Nkundimana

Palo Duro Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 6-0 G Sr. 5-11 G Soph. 6-0 G Jr. 6-4 G Sr. 5-10 G Soph. 6-5 P Sr. 6-5 P Jr. 6-5 P Jr. 6-0 G Soph. 6-1 G Sr. 6-1 G Sr. 6-0 G Soph. 5-8 G Jr. 6-0 G Sr. 5-8 G Soph.

Coach: Jeff Evans Asst. Coaches: Quincy Nodine, Braden Hammond, Steven Kinner 2018-2019 record: 27-3, 14-2 School phone: 282-2846 Players to watch:Kaje Lee, Jelani Mohamed, Thaddeus Udoh Palo Duro Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class LaShonda Stiger 5-5 G Jr. Aleea Miller 5-4 G Soph. Kiara Green 5-6 G Sr. Halima Salat 5-5 G Jr. Leyla Wright 5-7 P Jr. Sh’Heniece Matthews 5-9 P Jr. Reyna Zapata 5-5 G Sr. Coach: AJ Johnson Asst. Coaches: Callie Sims, Regan Welch, Vanessa Ramirez 2018-2019 record: 15-16, 8-8 School phone: 326-2493 Players to watch: LaShonda Stiger, Aleea Miller, Kiara Green, Halima Salat, Leyla Wright

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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(Continued from page 94)

He’s concerned about compensating for the loss of three firstteam all-district players. Evans cites defense and rebounding as

the keys for his team’s success this season. Palo Duro will open the season Nov. 9 at Midland Lee. The first home game will be Nov. 16 against Stratford.

Palo Duro Girls

Lady Dons’ coach wins No. 500 The highlight of the Lady Dons’ season came early. Coach A.J. Johnson notched his 500th career girls coaching victory when Palo Duro defeated South Lake Carroll in the Lewisville Flower Mound Tournament in November. Johnson entered the season with 497 wins in his 28-year coaching career. Twenty-four of those years have come at Palo Duro. By LaShonda Stiger reaching 500, he gives PD two basketball coaches who have reached that level (boys coach Jeff Evans owns 528). Johnson, a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in Shreveport, Louisiana, was an NAIA All-American in 1983 at Northwestern Oklahoma State University, where he is a member of the school’s sports hall of fame. He coached at San Antonio Lanier before moving to Palo Duro. His overall girls coaching record is now 512-338, a .602 winning percentage. Johnson’s Lady Dons have missed the playoffs three straight years, although they came close last season. They finished 1516 overall and 8-8 in District 3-5A, winding up in fifth place. “The team experienced several injuries that were hard to recover from,” Johnson said. Three seniors on last year’s team have moved on. Tamera Davis, first-team all-district, is at Clarendon College, and Naqua Puot is at Lamar, Colorado, Community College. Janessa Wade, who was second-team all-district as a junior, also is gone. Johnson can rebuild around three starters. LaShonda Stiger, a 5-5 junior guard, was second-team all-district. Aleea Miller, a 5-4 sophomore guard, was the district newcomer of the year as a freshman. Johnson recommends Stiger and Miller as all-state candidates. Kiara Green, a 5-6 senior guard, is the third returning starter. Green, 5-5 junior guard Halima Salat and 5-7 junior post Leyla Wright are additional players to watch, according to Johnson. All are returning letter winners. Johnson says guard play will be the team’s strength. He is concerned about play in the post. He list three keys for success this season: 1. Getting off to a good start; 2. Developing post play; and 3. Being able to execute on both ends of the court. The Lady Dons will open their season Nov. 9 at Midland Lee. The home opener is set for Nov. 16 when Stratford visits. Palo Duro will play in the Flower Mound Tournament in Lewisville, the Fantasy of Lights event in Wichita Falls and the Duncanville Tournament. District 3-5 play begins Nov. 26.

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Aleea Miller

Kiara Green

Halima Salat

Leyla Wright

Reyna Zapata

Sh’Heneci Matthews

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Plainview Boys

Longtime assistant moves up to head coach The Bulldogs will have a new head man standing on the sidelines this season. But he’s a very familiar face. Drew Thompson, who served as an assistant for the past 11 years under Coach Leon Hagerman, takes over from his old boss. Hagerman compiled a 319-292 career boys coaching record. Most of those victories came in his 15 seasons at Plainview, but his Ryan Jackson Bulldogs had fallen on hard times the past two years with records of 12-20 and 4-26. Hagerman now is teaching math part-time at Shallowater. Thompson is a graduate of Clyde High School and Texas Tech University. This marks his first head basketball coaching assignment. In addition to last year’s 4-26 overall record, the Bulldogs wound up 1-15 in District 3-5A, tied for seventh. “Last year we struggled to stay healthy,” Thompson said, “and that hurt us in district play.” Three players from last year’s team graduated. So Thompson has four starters and a total of seven letter winners returning. He considers that his team’s strength.

Damarius White

Austin Hauk

Zabrin Duncan

Ryan Jackson, a 6-2 senior guard, leads the way. Jackson averaged 14.5 points last season and was an all-district second teamer. The two-year letter winner is the younger brother of twotime first-team all-district standout Jaylon Jackson, who played for the Bulldogs in 2011 and 2012. The other returning starters are 5-10 senior guard Damarius White (10.2 ppg last season and two letters), 5-10 junior point guard Austin Hauk (7.2 ppg) and 6-0 junior post Zabrin Duncan (6.1 ppg). Those four represent 38 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. (Continued on next page)

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Name Kilo Arellano Zabrin Duncan Austin Hauk Ryan Jackson Peyton McNutt Malik Owens Damarius White Kilo Arrellano

Malik Owens

Peyton McNutt

(Continued from previous page)

Thompson tabs Jackson, White and Hauk as outstanding players to watch. Three other letter winners are on the Bulldog roster. They are 5-10 senior guard Kilo Arellano (3.4 ppg), 5-10 senior guard Malik Owens (3.5 ppg) and 6-0 senior post Peyton McNutt, who was injured last year. Thompson listed three keys for his team’s success this season: • Staying healthy; • Limiting turnovers; • Executing on offense. The Bulldogs will debut Nov. 22 at Canyon. The hone opener is set for Nov. 26 against Hereford. Plainview will play in the Gene Messer Shootout in Wolfforth, the Union Square Classic in Burkburnett and the Byron Johnston Shootout in Midland. District 3-5A play begins Dec. 10.

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Plainview Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 6-0 P Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-2 G Sr. 6-0 P Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 5-10 G Sr.

Coach: Drew Thompson Asst. Coaches: Kevin Fought, Karson Hembree, Doug Davis 2018-2019 record: 4-26, 1-15 School phone: 296-3356 Players to watch: Ryan Jackson, Damarius White, Austin Hauk

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Plainview Girls

Lady Bulldogs keep the beat going The Lady Bulldogs posted another strong season under veteran Coach Danny Wrenn. Plainview won the Byron Johnston Christmas Tourney for the second straight year and finished third in rugged District 3-5A with a 10-6 record. In the playoffs, the Lady Bulldogs defeated Abilene Wylie 4842 in the bidistrict and El Paso Andress 48-23 in the area before being eliminated by district foe Lubbock Cooper 43-30 in the regional quarterfinals. Plainview had beaten Cooper 46-43 a few weeks earlier. The Lady Bulldogs finished the season at 22-11. “Outstanding season in the toughest 5A district in the state, including state champion Amarillo High and regional tourney rep Lubbock Cooper,” Wrenn said. Wrenn lost four players, including three starters, off that team. Starter Jessie Long was all-district and TGCA all-state. Olivia Shannon and Julissa Chavez also started. Jaclynn Black didn’t start but earned all-district second-team honors. Shannon and Black are playing at Clarendon Junior College. Two starters and three other letter winners return for the Lady Bulldogs. Kylie Bennett, a 5-9 junior forward/post, averaged 11.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists and earned second-team all-district recognition last year. Osen Ellis, a 5-4 senior guard (6.4 ppg, 2.1 (Continued on next page)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Kylie Bennett

Aspin Miller Osen Ellis

Emily Sigala Aaliyah Rogers

Hannah Rodriguez

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Plainview Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Kylie Bennett 5-9 F/P Jr. Osen Ellis 5-4 G Sr. Aspin Miller 5-8 F/P Sr. Aaliyiah Rogers 5-5 G Sr. Emily Sigala 5-2 G Jr. Hannah Rodriquez 5-6 G Sr. Mia Velez 5-9 P Jr. Katy Long 5-9 F/P Soph. Jayda Brooks 5-5 G Soph. Daniella Guzman 5-7 G Soph. Coach: Denny Wrenn Asst. Coaches: Shelly Faught, Allison Hodges, Kevin Faught 2018-2019 record: 22-11, 8-6 School phone: 296-3356 Players to watch: Kylie Bennett, Osen Ellis, Aspin Miller, Aaliyiah Rogers, Emily Sigala DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 14-16 Nov. 22 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 2 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20

Plainview Schedule

Opponent Odessa Permian Trinity Christian Colleyville Heritage Tournament Hereford Canyon Hereford Caprock Abilene High Gene Messer Shootout Shallowater Tournament Palo Duro Union Square Classic Amarillo High Monterey

Place B G Here X Lubbock X There X Here X There X Here X Here X Snyder HS X Wolforth X There X There X X Burkburnett X Here X X There X X

Dec. 26-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan .14 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

Byron Johnston Shootout Randall Lubbock High Lubbock Cooper Coronado Caprock Palo Duro Amarillo High Monterey Randall Lubbock High Lubbock Cooper Coronado Caprock

Midland Here There Here There There Here There Here There Here There Here Here

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X

(Continued from previous page)

rpg, 4.2 apg) also started. Wrenn nominates Bennett, Ellis and Aspin Miller as all-state candidates. Letter winner Miler, a 5-8 senior post/forward, contributed 5.3 ppg, 2.1 rpg last season. Two other letter winners — 5-5 senior guard Aaliyiah Rogers (2.2 ppg) and 5-2 junior guard Emily Sigala (5.2 ppg, 3.3 apg) — are other players to watch, according to Wrenn. Wrenn is beginning his 30th season at Plainview and sports a 750-251 girls won-lost coaching mark for a .749 winning percentage, all as the Lady Bulldogs’ mentor. He regards that winning tradition as a strength this season. He is concerned about his team’s lack of size. Wrenn said the keys for a successful season will be “playing together and overcoming the lack of size.” Wrenn played on a state championship team at Seminole High School and competed collegiately at Wayland Baptist University. The Lady Bulldogs will open their campaign Nov. 9 at home against Odessa Permian.

Randall Boys

Raiders hope to rally after missing playoffs Coach Leslie Broadhurst has been around long enough to experience good seasons and bad seasons. Last year was the latter. The Raiders were coming off a surprising 2017-18 season when they were 21-14 and reached the regional semifinals. In fact, they were the Amarillo Globe-News Surprise Team of the Year. But eight seniors graduated from that team, leaving Broadhurst with only two experienced players heading into last season. The results were predictable: an eighth-place finish with a 1-15 district showing and a 6-25 overall record. The Raiders missed the playoffs for only the second time in 11 years. “We had a difficult season. We did not have one senior on our team, and we played a season with almost a whole team that never played varsity basketball,” Broadhurst said. “Hopefully, the guys we have back will continue to grow and mature into a competitive team this year.” The Raiders do have some experience this season with four starters and four other letter winners back. Kainan Thomas, a 6-0 junior guard, averaged 9.3 points and 2.9 rebounds last season. Dylan Gutz, a 6-3 senior guard, matched that point production at 9.3 ppg and added 3.8 rpg. The other two returning starters are 6-3 sophomore wing Cody (Continued on next page)

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Kainan Thomas

Cody Bessent Dylan Gutz

Chol Boi Beau Heider

Jacob Sternenberg 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

Bessent (5.2 ppg) and 6-4 junior wing Beau Heider (3 ppg, 3.7 rpg). Those four represent 26.8 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. The other four returning letter winners are 6-2 senior wing Chol Bol, 6-3 senior wing Jacob Sternenberg, 5-9 junior guard Bane Dunavin (2.5 ppg) and 5-9 junior guard Jason Omeire (4.2 ppg). “We do have four starters back and eight players who lettered, so our experience will be a plus,” Broadhurst said. “I think we will be much better defensively, and I think we will have some guys who can shoot the ball pretty well.” He is concerned about the Raiders’ lack of size, which leads to worries about rebounding. He described the keys for success this season as “continue to work together and blend into a unified team.” Broadhurst has more boys coaching wins than any other active coach in the Panhandle-Plains Basketball area. His overall boys record is 581-437 (a .571 winning percentage) for 37 years as a coach. The last 31 of those have come at Randall. He’s the only boys coach that school has had. He was an assistant at Lubbock High (1981-83) and Borger (1984-87), then head coach at Morton (1987-88) before moving to Randall for the 1988-89 season, the year Randall opened. Broadhurst is a graduate of Lubbock Monterey High School and Texas Tech University. The Raiders will open their season Nov. 19 at home against Dumas. They’ll play in the Hereford, Burkburnett and Midland’s Byron Johnston tournaments. District 3-5A play begins Dec. 10.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jason Omeire

Alex Kragh

Bane Dunavin

Aaron Ovalle

Caleb Blackwell

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Name Kainan Thomas Dylan Gutz Cody Bessent Beau Heider Chol Bol Jacob Sternenberg Bane Dunavin Jason Omeire Alex Kragh Sam Strong Aaron Ovalle Caleb Blackwell

Randall Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 G Jr. 6-3 G Sr. 6-3 F Soph. 6-4 F Jr. 6-2 F Sr. 6-3 F Sr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-1 G Jr. 6-1 F Soph.

Coach: Leslie Broadhurst Asst. Coaches: Trevor Johnson, Kyle Hewitt 2018-2019 record: 6-25, 1-15 School phone: 677-2322

Randall Boys Super Boosters We wish the Raiders a Great Season!—The Blackwell Family Go Raiders!—Have a great Sophomore season Cody! #10 Wishing Bane and the Raiders a great season!—Love, Dad & Mom Go Bane! Have a great season!—Love, Bo, Keslee & Cade

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DATE Nov. 8 Nov. 12 Nov. 14-16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov 26 Nov. 26 Nov. 30 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 18

Randall Schedule

Opponent Frenship Midland High Frisco Tournament Canyon Dumas Tascosa Tascosa Canyon Spearman Lubbock High Lubbock Trinity Hereford Tournament Clovis Shootout Lubbock Cooper Burkburnett Tournament Lubbock Tournament Coronado Caprock Byron Johnston Tournament Weatherford Tournament Plainview Palo Duro Amarillo High Monterey Lubbock High Lubbock Cooper Coronado Caprock Plainview Palo Duro Amarillo High Monterey Lubbock High

Place B G Here X Here X There X Here X Here X There X Here X Here X There X There X There X There X There X Here X X There X There X There X X Here X X Midland X There X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Randall Girls

Time for Lady Raiders to rebuild As Brooke Walthall begins her eighth season as the Lady Raiders’ coach, some rebuilding is in order. After consecutive 18-win seasons, Randall went 14-16 last year, finishing fourth in District 3-5A with a 9-7 record. The Lady Raiders lost their bidistrict playoff game to Aledo 49-40. “We had a great group of kids and a big Cassidy Beck senior class with five talented players,” Walthall said. The key departure of that senior class was Kamry Perez, who was TGCA all-state and TABC all-region. “We graduated a lot of points with two of our seniors,” Walthall said, “but we feel like the returners have all grown on the offensive end.” Walthall has two starters and another part-time starter back. Cassidy Beck, a 5-9 senior post, and Claire Headings, a 5-5 senior guard, started last season. Mariah Williams, a 5-7 junior guard, started some games. Letter winners Kailee Benton, a 5-6 sophomore guard, and Ainsley Velaquez, a 5-10 sophomore guard, are other players to watch, according to Walthall. Seven Lady Raiders lettered last year.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Claire Headings

Mariah Williams

Kailee Benton

“We had a great summer of growing on and off the court. These girls have worked hard to improve as individuals and a team,” Walthall said. “We are looking forward to our team’s continued growth and gelling together.” She lists the keys for a successful season as “playing as a team, growth mindset and believing and trusting in the process.” Walthall is beginning her eighth season at Randall after short stints at Midlothian and The Colony. Her overall girls coaching record is 139-145, but her Randall teams stand 115-95. She played on Canyon’s state championship teams of 2000 and 2003. She was a McDonald’s All-American as a Lady Eagle, (Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page)

then played four years at Texas Tech. Competition between Randall and the Tascosa girls team is a family affair. Walthall’s mother is Betsy Baughman, Tascosa’s girls coach. Last year mom’s team won 77-60. They’ll meet this season in late November. Before that, the Lady Raiders will open at home Nov. 8 against Frenship, then play host to Midland Nov. 12. Next up is the Frisco Tournament plus a home date with Canyon. Those are stiff opening assignments. Later Randall will play in the Clovis, New Mexico, Shootout and Weatherford Tourney. District 3-5A play begins Dec. 3.

Good luck on your 2019 season! Randall Girls Super Boosters Play hard and give it your all! So proud of you always—Love, Dad, Mom & Kaison Good luck this year Brooklyn! Have a great year. We love you!—Mom, Dad, Jordan & Kaylee Always believe and never give up!—Love Mom, Dad & Lauren Good luck Addi! Have a good year!—Mom, Trent & Lennon Be great! We love you Zoe!—Mom, Dad & Tucker Go KBK! Good luck!—Love, Gogo, Granny & Pepaw Go Kailee! Have a great year!—Shane & Julie Anderson Go KBK!—Love Memaw & Papa Go Kailee!—Love, Mom, Dad, Colt & Sawyer Way to go Kailee!—Love, Nana & Papa Avri -have a fun and memorable Freshman year! Love you!—Dad, Mom, Marcus & Lauren Good Luck Kali!—Love Dad, Mom, Jeramy & Kellen Good Luck Aliyah! You got this!—Love, Your Parents Good Luck, play hard, and have fun this year Carley!—Love you, Mom & Dad You make us proud everyday with you commitment, passion and perseverance We are so excited to watch you play this season. Create some memories, play with heart and make the free throws. Go Raiders!— Love you Ainsley, Dad, Christina & our tribe Good Luck Ella! We know you can do it!—Love you, Zepeda and Son Trucking Good Luck Ella! We Love you!—Kaleb, Tom & Kendrick Good Luck Ella! You will do Great!—Love Grampa & Grandma Zepeda 104

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Ainsley Velasquez

Name Macayla Warren Claire Headings Cassidy Beck Mariah Williams Zoe Francis Kailee Benton Ainsley Velaquez

Macayla Warren

Zoe Francis

Randall Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-7 G Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-9 P Sr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-8 P Jr. 5-6 G Soph. 5-10 G Soph.

Coach: Brooke Walthall Asst. Coaches: Jenna Jesko, Kalee Carey 2018-2019 record: 14-16 School phone: 677-2830 Players to watch: Cassidy Beck, Mariah Williams, Kailee Benton, Ainsley Velaquez

We know you will do great this year! Good Luck!—Love, Sam & Brayden Ella Good Luck! We know you can do it!—Love you, Zepeda and Son Trucking Ella always remember Phillippians 4:13 “you can do all things through Christ”—Mom & Dad Go Get’em Ashley!—Love, Mom, Dad, Addison & Alexis “I seek to leave the world a little better place than I found it” Have a great year Trinity!—Love, Mama Noggs, Billy & Bear Keep up the good work Wima! We are so proud of you!—Mom & Dad Good Luck Madi Hayes and all the Lady Raiders Have a great senior year Claire!—Love, Dad, Mom, Gracie, Pop & Meme Brooklyn You’ve worked hard towards you high school career. Let’s make the first year a great one!—Dad, Mom & Paige Good Luck this season Mariah Williams! Make it memorable!—Love, Mom & Dad Mom and Dad wish Cassidy and The Lady Raiders an exciting and fun season! Have a great season and we love you Makenna!—Love, Mom & Family Wishing Bane and the Raiders a great season!—Love, Dad & Mom Go Bane! Have a great season!—Bo, Keslee & Cade 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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TEAMS AT A GLANCE PRESEASON PICKS

District 3-4A Boys 1. Lubbock Estacado 2. Canyon 3. Levelland 4. Hereford 5. Lamesa

District 3-4A Girls 1. Canyon 2. Hereford 3. Levelland 4. Lubbock Estacado 5. Lamesa

District 4-4A Boys 1. Pampa 2. Dalhart/Dumas 4. Borger/Perryton

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District 4-4A Girls 1. Pampa 2. Perryton 3. Dalhart 4. Dumas 5. Borger

HONOR ROLL 4A Boys Jarrad Gomez, Canyon, 5-10, Sr.; Reese Seideman, Canyon, 6-5, Sr.; Miles Huffhines, Canyon, 6-0, Sr.; Stephen Ferguson, Canyon, 6-5, Sr.; Joe Shaw, Canyon, 5-10, Jr.; Brock Corman, Canyon, 6-0, Jr.; Zach Barsalou, Dalhart, 6-5, Sr.; Devyn Hutcherson, Dumas, 6-0, Sr.; Kyle Stroebel, Dumas, 6-2, Sr.; Cristian Kelso, Dumas, 6-2, Soph.; Blake Walker, Hereford, 5-9, Jr.; Kaleb Larra, Hereford, 5-9, Jr.; Chris Ball, Hereford, 5-8, Jr.; Jacob Ramirez, Levelland, 5-5, Sr.; Kaleb Reyna, Levelland, 5-9, Sr.; Bryant White, Levelland, 6-2, Jr.; Isaiah Slazar, Levelland, 5-10, Jr.; Zaiden Lecroy, Levelland, 5-9, Jr.

4A Girls Carter Cluck, Canyon, 5-10, Sr.; Chloe Callahan, Canyon, 5-9, Jr.; Kenadee Winfrey, Canyon, 5-11, Jr.; Bella Hayden, Canyon, 5-6, Jr.; Kyla Cobb, Canyon, 5-6, Jr.; Neely Wood, Canyon, 5-9, Jr.; Carissa Love, Canyon, 5-4, Jr.; Taylor Thomas, Canyon, 5-7, Soph.; Taytum Stow, Hereford, 6-2, Soph.; Nayeli Acosta, Hereford, 5-9, Jr.; Miranda Acosta, Hereford, 5-7, Soph.; Darcy Dodd, Hereford, 5-10, Sr.; Allie Latham, Levelland, 5-5, Jr.; Michaela Watkins, Levelland, 5-8, Jr.; Annie Dewbre, Levelland, 5-9, Sr.; Emma Kent, Levelland, 5-4, Soph.

District 3-4A Eagles post a winning record

Canyon Boys

The Eagles finished on the plus side of the ledger last season for the first time in five years. Not since the late Guy Crenshaw’s 2013-14 team went 19-11 had Canyon’s boys team posted a winner. The 2018-19 Eagles scored non-conference wins over Pampa, Randall, Chisholm Trail, Shallowater and Childress. They tied for second in District 3-4A with a 5-3 record and qualified for the playoffs after missing the previous two seasons. The Eagles beat Perryton 52-45 in bidistrict but lost to Clint 57-51 in the area game. So that ended a 19-12 season for Canyon. “After a tough 2017-18 season (5-21), this group made a commitment to improve in the offseason,” Coach Travis Schulte said. “We implemented a new pressing, up-tempo style where we played 12 guys every night, and we had a tremendous year. I cannot say enough about the leadership and determination that this group exhibited this past year.” Kolton Trimmier, two-time all-district, and Nathan Hoggatt, all-district last year, were the key departures from that team. But five other seniors also moved on. That leaves Schulte with two returning starters and three other letter winners. Jarrad Gomez and Reese Seideman are the two returning starters. Gomez, a 5-10 senior guard, averaged 9.5 points and 2.5 rebounds and was all-district last season. Seideman, a 6-5 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jarrad Gomez

Reese Seideman

Stephen Ferguson

senior guard, scored 6.5 points per game. Schulte recommends Gomez, Seideman and Stephen Ferguson as all-state candidates. Ferguson, a 6-5 senior forward, came off the bench to contribute 6.5 ppg and 4.5 rpg. As a reward, he was named all-district honorable mention. Schulte named three other Eagles as players to watch: Letter winner Miles Huffhines (3 ppg, 2 rpg) is a 6-0 senior forward; letter winner Joe Shaw (2 ppg) a 5-10 junior guard; and Brock Corman a 6-0 junior guard. The Eagles have six seniors and five juniors on their roster. Defense, athleticism and scoring ability are the Eagles’ strengths, according to Schulte. (Continued on next page)

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He is concerned about leadership, rebounding and turnovers. Schulte lists three keys for success this season: • Getting newcomers adjusted to varsity basketball; • Developing strong leaders, and players filling their roles; • Value of the basketball on both ends. Schulte is beginning his fifth season with a 47-67 record at Canyon. His 23-year overall boys coaching record is 239-195. He previously coached at Hereford, Sunray, Pampa and Perryton. He is a graduate of Nazareth High School and West Texas A&M University. The Eagles will entertain Amarillo High Nov. 15 in their season opener. They’ll play in the Hereford, Abilene Wylie and Clovis, New Mexico, tournaments. District 3-4A play commences Jan. 17. DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 14-16 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 6-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 13 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28

Canyon Schedule

Opponent Caprock Burleson Tournament Amarillo High Pampa Randall Canyon Shootout Plainview Nazareth Randall Idalou Hereford Tournament Canyon Tournament Panhandle Lubbock Trinity Abilene Wylie Tournament Dumas Abernathy Dumas Clovis Tournament

Name Carter Cluck Chloe Callahan Kenadee Winfrey Bella Hayden Kyla Cobb Neely Wood Carissa Love Taylor Thomas Karlie Venhaus Zoey McBroom Kross Hiatt Tabi Kile Logan Trujillo Kenadee Bennett Ryleigh Taylor Camryn Melton Whitney Willeford Bree Castleberry Kross Dudley

Place B G Here X Centennial HS X Here X There X There X Here X Here X There X There X Here X X There X Here X Here X There X There X There X Here X Here X There X

Canyon Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 F Sr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-11 F Jr. 5-6 G Jr. 5-6 G Jr. 5-9 F Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-7 G Soph. 5-6 G Jr. 5-5 G Soph. 5-11 F Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-9 F Jr. 5-11 F Jr. 6-0 F Jr. 5-7 G Soph. 5-6 G Soph. 5-9 F Soph. 5-6 G Soph.

Coach: Joe Lombard Asst. Coaches: Johnny Hampton, Tate Lombard 2018-2019 record: 26-7, 8-0 School phone: 677-2740 Players to watch: Carter Cluck, Kenadee Winfrey, Bella Hayden, Kyla Cobb, Neely Wood, Carissa Love, Taylor Thomas, Chloe Callahan

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Miles Huffhines Dec. 20 Dec. 27-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 13 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Creed Auston

Midland Lee Canadian Shootout Frenship Childress Borger Tascosa Estacado Clovis Lamesa Levelland Hereford Estacado Lamesa Levelland Hereford Estacado Lamesa

Jack Skalsky LCU There There There X There X Here Here There X There Here X There X There X Here X There X Here X Here X There X

X X X X X X X X X X X X

Canyon Super Boosters Eagles and Lady Eagles, Have a great season!—Babs, Scott, Lindy, Paige and grandsons!

Name Jarrad Gomez Reese Seideman Miles Huffhines Stephen Ferguson Jack Skalsky Creed Auston Joe Shaw Brock Corman Grayson Hack Rafe Butcher Jett Meek Kemper Jones

Canyon Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 6-5 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-5 F Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-0 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-5 F Fr.

Coach: Travis Schulte Asst. Coach: Brandon Jones 2018-2019 record: 19-12, 5-3 School phone: 677-2740 Players to watch: Jarrad Gomez, Reese Seideman, Stephen Ferguson, Miles Huffhines, Joe Shaw, Brock Corman

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Canyon Girls

Lady Eagles looking for return to top The Lady Eagles haven’t won a state championship for two seasons. Not a drought, mind you, but a dry spell by their standards. Canyon was in the running, as usual, last year but the Lady Eagles were eliminated by the eventual state 4A champion, Argyle, 48-31 in the regional semifinals. The Lady Eagles began the season with no returning starters. But they had won Carter Cluck District 3-4A with a perfect 8-0 record and were ranked as the No. 1 Class 4A team in the state, despite six early season losses, entering the playoffs. “We played a tough schedule and our players did a good job of improving throughout the season,” Coach Joe Lombard said. Canyon rolled over Dalhart 70-30 in the bidistrict, Andrews 73-20 in the area and Lubbock Estacado 50-33 in the regional quarterfinals before encountering Argyle. The cold-shooting Lady Eagles fell behind early and couldn’t catch the four-time 4A state champions. The Lady Eagles finished the season 26-7. “We were very proud of our team’s work ethic and competitive attitude in being one of the better 4A teams in the state,” Lombard said.

Chloe Callahan

Bella Hayden

Kenadee Winfrey

Five seniors on last year’s team — Brylee Winfrey, Caitlynne Speegle, Ryan Patterson, Faith Douglass and Kylie Hicks — have moved on. Winfrey was all-state, the district offensive MVP, a member of the Amarillo Globe-News 4A-3A Golden Spread team and second-team on the AGN Girls Super Team. Speegle and Patterson were all-district. Three starters and five other letter winners return for the Lady Eagles. Carter Cluck, a 5-10 senior forward, averaged 7 points and 5 rebounds and was the district defensive co-MVP last year. Chloe Callahan, a 5-9 junior guard, contributed 6 ppg, 3 rpg and 2 assists per game in earning all-district honors. (Continued on next page)

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Carissa Love

Taylor Thomas

Kross Hiatt

Tabi Kile

Ryleigh Taylor

Whitney Willeford

(Continued from previous page)

Bella Hayden, a 5-6 junior guard (6 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 apg) is the third returning starter. She is the sister of former Canyon star Angel Hayden, now at Angelo State after playing two years at Texas Tech. Lombard lists Cluck, Callahan and 5-11 junior forward Kenadee Winfrey as all-state candidates. Kenadee Winfrey, who missed last season with an injury, is the sister of the departed Brylee Winfrey. And there are two younger Winfrey girls. Bella Hayden, 5-6 junior guard Kyla Cobb, 5-9 junior forward Neely Wood, 5-4 junior guard Carissa Love and 5-7 sophomore guard Taylor Thomas are additional players to watch, according to Lombard. He lists team quickness and depth as the Lady Eagles’ strengths. His concerns? “Establishing new team’s identity and new roles for next year’s players,” he said. The keys for success this season will be improvement on offense and defense, he said. Lombard is a coaching legend in the Panhandle as he leads all active high school coaches in wins. His teams have won 19 state championships. Lombard captained both his Fort Wayne, Indiana, Northside High School and Wayland Baptist University basketball teams. He was inducted into the Wayland Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Canyon High School gym is named for him. He is a member of several halls of fame, including the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Tennessee.

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Cassidy Fernandez

Zoey McBroom

He coached for seven seasons at Nazareth, where his girls won six state titles. He continued his success at Canyon, winning 13 state championships in his 34 years there. All 34 of his teams have qualified for the playoffs. His 41-year overall coaching record is a phenomenal 1,348-131 for a .911 winning percentage. A total of 1,287 of those wins came with girls teams. His boys teams — all at Nazareth — were 61-9. With a possible eye to the future, the 66-year-old Lombard has added his son, Tate Lombard, to his coaching staff this season. Tate Lombard has coached two state championships and registered 250 victories as the girls coach at Wall. Lombard will begin season No. 35 at Canyon when the Lady Eagles entertain Caprock Nov.12. They’ll play in the Burleson, Canyon Shootout, Canyon Kids Inc. and Canadian Shootout tournaments. District 3-4A play begins Jan.10.

Go Get’em Zoey!—Love, Mom, Mike, Ally & Raylee Go Carter, we love you and are proud of you!—Nickki Cluck, Rodan & Fields Good Luck this season Lady Eagles and Go Bennett!—The Bennett Family Go Ryleigh and Lady Eagles!—The Harmans Go get’em Kar, love you!—Mom & Dad Have a great season Eagles! Go Taylin!— The Thomas Family We support the Lady Eagles! Good luck for a successful and blessed season! Go get’em #2!—Canyon Physical Therapy 806-655-6824 Neely, “don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great” Go #3!—Love Aleia, Kayclee, Parker, Paige, Murphey & Jack Good Luck Bella! Let this be your year! Have a Great year! Go Eagles! Love you Tabi!—Granny & Gramps 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Hereford Boys

Whitefaces have a new coach Former Palo Duro standout Marques Loftis is the new coach for the Whitefaces. This will be the first head coaching assignment for Loftis, a member of the 1998-99 Palo Duro team that went 32-2. Loftis played collegiately under Mark Adams (former West Texas A&M coach and current Texas Tech assistant) at Howard Junior College. That Howard team was ranked No. 1 in the nation and placed fifth in the NJCAA national tournament. Loftis later graduated from Oklahoma Panhandle State University. He served as an assistant coach at both his alma maters, OPSU (2009-10) and Palo Duro (2010-19). Loftis succeeds C.J. Villegas, who coached the Whitefaces for six years. Villegas has moved on to become an assistant boys coach at Frenship. Despite stepping down to Class 4A last season, the Whitefaces struggled in Villegas’ final season. They went 11-21 overall and 2-6 in the five-team District 3-4A, finishing fourth. However, they beat Lamesa 52-39 in a play-in game to qualify for the playoffs. Hereford lost its bidistrict game to Pampa 62-48. All-district performers Haz Castaneda and Tanner Frische were the key departures from that Hereford team. Loftis has one honored player returning. Blake Walker, a 5-9 junior guard, earned all-district honorable mention last season.

Blake Walker

Kaleb Larra

Sebastian Grajeda

Chris Ball

Tye Davis

Loftis designated Walker, 5-9 junior guard Kaleb Larra and 5-8 junior guard Chris Ball as outstanding players to keep an eye on. (Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page)

“This year’s strengths are speed and quickness,” Loftis said. “We need to use these to our advantage to play fast on offense and harass teams on defense.” He is concerned about a lack of size and a lack of varsity experience. “The keys to our team’s success (are) leadership from the returners,” Loftis said, “and to persevere through non-district to build confidence early, in order for us to be able to compete for a playoff spot.” The Whitefaces will open their non-district competition Nov. 16 at home against Dalhart. They’ll play in their own tournament, plus events in Stanton and Snyder. District 3-4A play begins Jan. 17.

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Name Sebastian Grajeda Tye Davis Blake Walker Kaleb Larra Chris Ball

Hereford Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-2 G Sr. 6-1 G Sr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr.

Coach: Marques Loftis Asst. Coaches: Tim Bell, Nik Brown, Tracy Huseman, Jayden Venhaus, Sonny Umsted 2018-2019 record: 11-21, 1-7 School phone: 363-7630 Players to watch: Blake Walker, Kaleb Larra, Chris Ball

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Hereford Girls

Lady Whitefaces turn fortunes around Coach Bryan Lintner and his staff engineered quite a turnaround in Lintner’s first season at Hereford. After some successful seasons under Coach Christy Connally, the Lady Whitefaces had 7- and 9-win campaigns in her last two years. Lintner took over for 2018-19, and Hereford achieved a .500 season, both in overall and district play. Hereford was 17-17 overall and 4-4 in District 3-4A, good for third place. In the Taytum Stow playoffs, the Lady Whitefaces defeated Perryton 57-25 in bidistrict and San Elizario 60-46 in the area round before bowing to district foe Levelland 51-42 in the regional quarterfinals. “It was a dream season,” Lintner said. “We were picked last in our district. To go from being picked last to going three rounds deep in the playoffs is a testament to the hard work, improvement (by the players) and fantastic coaching by the Hereford staff,” Lintner said. “From beginning to end, this was the most improved team I have coached in 36 years.” Lintner’s coaching career includes stops at Wheeler, Canyon and Bushland. The Amarillo High and Texas State University

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Nayali Acosta

Miranda Acosta

Darcy Dodd

graduate served as an assistant to Canyon’s Joe Lombard for 17 years. As the head coach at Bushland, his teams went 61-29 overall and won three district championships with a perfect 24-0 district record. Lintner got to match wits with his former Canyon boss twice last season, with Lombard’s Lady Eagles winning both games. Early in the season, Hereford had halftime leads 10 times only to lose those games in the second halves. “So the potential was visible early on,” Lintner said. “The players worked hard every day in practice to learn all new offensive and defensive systems.” (Continued on next page)

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The Lady Whitefaces had some key departures from that team. Lori Arias was first-team all-district, on the Golden Spread 4A-3A team and TABC all-region. Haleigh Barba was first-team all-district. Also gone are Andrea Valenzuela, Arely Fraire and Samantha Lookingbill. The key returnee is 6-2 sophomore post Taytum Stow. As a freshman, Stow averaged 10 points and 10 rebounds and was the district newcomer of the year. A second returning starter is 5-9 junior wing Nayeli Acosta, who averaged 7 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists last year. Lintner regards Stow and Acosta as all-state material. Letter winners Miranda Acosta (Nayeli’s cousin) and Darcy Dodd are additional players to watch, according to Lintner. Miranda Acosta (4 ppg) is a 5-7 sophomore wing; Dodd (4 ppg, 4 rpg) is a 5-10 senior post. Brianne Claudio, a 5-2 senior guard, is a fifth returning letter winner. Lintner describes speed as his team’s main strength. “Ballhandling and driving as well as a super-talented 6-2 Taytum Stow in the post,” he said. “We should be an exceptional pressing team with lots of depth at guard.” He’s somewhat concerned about depth at the post position. Also, the outside shooting consistency needs to improve. Lintner lists two keys for success this season. “1. Last year we had six players over 5-10, so we were able to overpower people in the paint. This year we are going to have to develop a different style to take advantage of our speed,” he said. “2. We will be very young with two freshmen and four sophomores to go with our returning players, so getting game experience quickly will be a concern.” The Lady Whitefaces will begin getting that game experience Nov. 12 at Dimmitt. The home opener is Nov.16 against River Road. Hereford will participate in the Shallowater, Dimmitt and Gruver tournaments. District 3-4A play begins Jan. 14.

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Brianne Claudio

Candice Gonce

Lizzette Carrillo

Lacey Davis

Anahi Flores

Micah Palacios

Kaitlin Soto

Lilly Skiles

Nickilah Whatley

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 28 Dec. 30-31 Dec. 30-Jan. 1 Jan. 3 Jan 4 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 18

Hereford Schedule

Opponent Dimmitt Dalhart River Road Gruver Amarillo Flames Plainview Dalhart Odessa Permian Plainview Caprock Hereford Tournament Shallowater Tournament Dumas Dimmitt Tournament Stanton Tournament Pampa Midland High Bushland Snyder Tournament Gruver Tournament Seminole Borger Panhandle Lubbock Monterey Lubbock Titans Lubbock Estacado Lamesa Levelland Canyon Sundown Lubbock Estacado Lamesa Levelland Canyon Lubbock Estacado

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Place B G There X Here X Here X Here X Here X There X Here X Here X There X There X Here X There X There X X There X There X Here X X There X There X X There X There X There X Here X Here X There X Here X There X Here X X There X X Here X X There X Here X X There X X Here X There X X There X

Name Taytum Stow Nayeli Acosta Miranda Acosta Darcy Dodd Brianne Claudio Candace Gonce Lizette Carillo Lacey Davis Anahi Flores Micah Palacios Katelin Soto

Hereford Girls Ht. Pos. Class 6-2 P Soph. 5-9 F Jr. 5-7 F Soph. 5-10 P Sr. 5-2 G Sr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-10 P Jr. 5-2 G Jr. 5-4 F Soph. 5-5 G Soph.

Coach: Bryan Lintner Asst. Coaches: Lisa Taylor, Caitlyn Greenwood, Kelsie Hill 2018-2019 record: 17-17, 4-4 School phone: 363-7630 Players to watch: Taytum Stow, Nayeli Acosta, Miranda Acosta, Darcy Dodd

Hereford Super Boosters Have a great basketball season Lady Whitefaces!—Hereford Scale Service We wish the Lady Whitefaces a great season!— The Gutierrez Family “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Corinthians 10:31 Go Taylor! Wishing you an amazing season!—Love, Mom & Dad Play hard, play smart, play together! Go Herd!— The Acosta Family

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Go Yesenia!—The Soltero Family Have a great season Hereford Whitefaces!—Taqueria El Vaquero, 1003 East Park Avenue

Good Luck Lady Whitefaces and Whitefaces!— MAD Kreations by D 806-681-9937 Go Candace!—Ruthie & Bobby Go Candace!—The Fowler Family Go Breezy! We support the Herd!—Irma, Rubio, & Rosario Vargas We proudly support the HERD! Go Aubrey, Brandon & Emrie!—The Ortiz Family We proudly support Aubrey Devin and the Herd Basketball Program. GO HERD!—The Devin Family

District 4-4A Golden Wolves look to get over hump

Dalhart Boys

The Golden Wolves have had two 20-pluswin seasons under Coach Stratton Frye, but they just can’t seem to get over the hump. That hump would be the bidistrict round of the playoffs. Dalhart went 5-3 for a third-place finish in District 4-4A last season. But the Wolves lost to Levelland 69-60 in bidistrict. That completed a 21-11 season. “There were some identity issues last Zach Barsalou year,” Frye said. “We got them straightened out and are excited for the upcoming season.” The Wolves suffered a lot of departures from last year’s team. Hugo Davila, a first-team all-district pick, Collin Smith, Carson Smith and Edgar Olvera were seniors last season. Robby Devries, a PPB Super Team member and later a first-team all-district selection, was a junior last year but moved to Arizona. Dalhart has eight letter winners back, led by 6-5 senior forward Zach Barsalou, who averaged 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists last season. Frye tabs Barsalou as an all-stater this season. Brandon Samaniego, a 6-0 senior point guard (7 ppg, 3 rpg, 3 apg); Eli Alarid, a 5-9 senior guard (7 ppg, 2 rpg); LaDaryl Smith, a 6-1 senior forward (6 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 apg); Xavier Hammett, a 5-11 junior guard (5 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg); and Jaeden Fangman, a 5-10 sophomore point guard; also figure prominently into this year’s plans. In Frye’s first season, Dalhart was 22-7 overall and 6-2 in district before being eliminated in bidistrict. So he addressed those consecutive bidistrict defeats in assessing his team’s strengths. “I would start by saying this team’s sense of unity. They have

Trey Campbell

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Will Moore

Brandon Samaniego

Eli Alarid

LaDaryl Smith

Xaviar Hammett

Jaeden Fangman

Bass Wieck

gone through two early exits and are putting in the work to make sure it doesn’t happen again,” Frye said. “They will play fast and be more sound defensively as we add some more athleticism.” He is concerned about the Wolves’ shooting. “Shooting may be a weakness for us this year,” he said. “We have lost some of our spot-up guys. We hope to negate that with stronger defensive efforts and tempo.” Frye outlined several keys for success this season. “As always, we must stay healthy,” he said. “Meshing some of our younger guys that we will have to count on in with some of our three- or four-year lettermen might be a struggle early on, also.” Frye is beginning his third season at Dalhart with a 43-18 boys coaching record. The Dumas High School and Lubbock Christian University graduate served as an assistant at San Angelo Lake View for three years before arriving in Dalhart. The Golden Wolves will open their season Nov. 16 at Hereford. The home opener will be Nov. 19 vs. Spearman. They’ll play in the Hereford, Midland’s Greenwood and Allen tournaments. District 4-4A play begins Jan. 17.

Brennan Lloyd 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 25 Nov. 29-30 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 30 Dec. 30 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

Dalhart Schedule

Opponent Booker Boys Ranch Hereford Sunray Spearman Abilene Cooper Guymon Frenship Hereford Fantasy of Lights Tournament Lubbock High Bushland Hereford Tournament Vega Tournament Tascosa Tulia Greenwood Tournament Stanton Tournament Shallowater Gruver Allen Tournament Nazareth White Deer Stratford Estacado West Texas Clarendon Borger Dumas Pampa Perryton Borger Dumas Pampa Perryton Borger

Place B G Here X Here X There X There X Here X Childress X Here X X There X There X Wichita Falls X There X Here X There X There X Here X Here X Midland X There X Here X There X X There X Here X Here X There X X Here X Here X Here X Here X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X

Name Zach Barsalou Brandon Samaniego Eli Alarid LaDaryl Smith Bass Wieck Trey Campbell Xaviar Hammett Will Moore Brennan Lloyd Gannon Swecker Jaeden Fangman

Dalhart Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-5 F Sr. 6-0 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 5-11 F Sr. 6-5 F Sr. 5-11 G Jr. 6-0 F Jr. 6-0 G/F Jr. 6-0 F Jr. 5-10 G Soph.

Coach: Stratton Frye Asst. Coaches: John Quint, Chris Christopher 2018-2019 record: 21-11, 5-3 School phone: 244-7300 Player to watch: Zach Barsalou

Name Bethany Berngen Cristal Davila Madison Gaines Kennedy Green Caryce Guerrero Mattie Leaton Kaeona Marquez Natalie Olvera Anna Perez Harlie Ralston Loree Simmons

Dalhart Girls Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 F Jr. 5-7 F Jr. 5-7 P Sr. 6-3 P Soph. 5-5 G Jr. 5-5 G Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-6 G/F Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-5 G Soph. 5-4 G Sr.

Coach: Anthony Catherall Asst. Coaches: Lida Trusler, Kristen Trevino 2018-2019 record: 9-22, 3-5 School phone: 244-7300

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Dalhart Girls

Lady Wolves experienced now With three starters and three other letter winners returning, the Lady Wolves are looking for improvement this season. Dalhart was 9-22 overall and 3-5 in District 4-4A last year. Nevertheless, the Lady Wolves’ fourth-place district finish earned them a berth in the playoffs for the sixth straight year. They bowed to Canyon 70-30 in bidistrict. Kaeona Marquez “Last season was more about gaining experience for our young team,” Coach Anthony Catherall said. “We started four sophomores much of the year and were competitive against some really good teams. We need to develop consistency.” All-district Hanna Wilkerson was the key departure from last year’s team. The three returning starters, all juniors now, are Kaeona Marquez, Bethany Berngen and Cristal Davila. Marquez, a 5-7 guard, averaged 9 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists last season and made the all-district team. So did Berngen, a 6-0 forward who posted 6 ppg, 5 rpg credentials. Davila, a 5-7 forward, chipped in with 6 ppg, 7 rpg. Another junior, 5-5 guard Caryce Guerrero (4 ppg, 4 rpg, 3 apg), was the district newcomer of the year. The two senior letter winners are 5-6 guard/forward Natalie Olvera (5 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 apg) and 5-4 guard Loree Simmons (2 ppg). The Lady Wolves’ roster contains four seniors, five juniors and two sophomores. “After having a large portion of our team on varsity for the last couple of years, we’re not ‘young’ anymore,” Catherall said. “We need to develop consistency, after showing some flashes of playing well a year ago.” In addressing his team’s strengths, he said, “We have more size than we’ve had in a while.” His concerns center on the backcourt. “We need to find a couple of guards to step up, knock down some shots and limit turnovers for us,” he said. Catherall, like boys Coach Stratton Frye, is a graduate of Dumas High School. But Catherall’s alma mater is Texas Tech University.

Mattie Leaton

Bethany Berngen

Cristal Davila

Natalie Olvera

Loree Simmons

Madison Gaines

Anna Perez

He is beginning his seventh season as the Lady Wolves’ mentor. Previous coaching stops were at Livingston, Anton and Tahoka. The Lady Wolves will debut at home Nov. 9, entertaining Booker. They’ll participate in Wichita Falls’ Fantasy of Lights, Vega and Stanton tourneys. District 4-4A play for the girls begins Jan. 10.

Kennedy Green Harlie Ralston

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2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Dumas Boys

Demons end long playoff drought The Demons made history last season — they made the playoffs. Dumas qualified for post-season play for the first time since 1971, according to Coach Randy Ray, the architect of the Demons’ first playoff appearance in 48 years. And Ray accomplished it in his first year as head coach at his high school alma mater. Dumas placed second in the Lamesa Aiden Venzor Tournament. And despite 10-20 overall and 2-7 district records, the Demons finished fourth in the five-team District 4-4A. They beat fifth-place Borger twice within three days to qualify for the playoffs. They lost their bidistrict game to Lubbock Estacado 76-43. “Our kids brought life back into this basketball program and are hungry for more success this season,” Ray said. The Demons lost all-district Dorion Estrada, the only senior on last year’s team, but return four starters and four other letter winners. Aiden Venzor, a 5-10 senior point guard, averaged 16.7 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists in earning all-district recognition. The other returning starters are 6-0 senior forward Colton Johnson (4.9 ppg, 5.4 rpg), 5-9 senior guard Angel Pelayo (4.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg) and 6-0 senior forward Devyn Hutcherson (4.1 ppg, 3.8 rpg). Those four represent 30 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Letter winner Kyle Stroebel, a 6-2 senior center (4.1 ppg, 4 rpg), and Cristian Kelso, a 6-2 sophomore forward, are additional players to watch, according to Ray. Kelso has a cousin, 5-10 sophomore point guard Johnny Reynaga, on the team. And the Demons have a pair of twins: 5-10 senior forward Isaac Nevarez and 5-10 senior forward Isaiah Nevarez. There are 10 seniors and three sophomores on the roster. “With four starters and eight lettermen returning, this is the most experienced group we’ve had in quite some time. These guys are mentally tough and play with a chip on their shoulder,” Ray said. “Competing in a tough, well-coached district and making the playoffs helped give our kids added motivation to succeed even more this season.” Closing out games is a concern. “We lost multiple games last year by six points or fewer,” he said. “We have to be able to close out games and make free throws in the final minutes.” Ray sees some other key factors. “We have one returning letterman over 6-0 so overcoming a size disadvantage to most teams we’ll play will be crucial to our success this season,” he said. “Senior leadership and experience will also play a key role. These kids understand what it takes to win and embrace the daily grind.” 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Colton Johnson

Angel Pelayo

Devyn Hutcherson

Ray was a three-sport (football, basketball and track) athlete at Dumas. The West Texas A&M University graduate spent seven years as a Demon assistant before taking over as head coach last year. The Demons will open their season Nov. 19 at Randall. They’ll play in the Lamesa, Stanton and Littlefield tournaments. District 4-4A play begins Jan.17.

DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 23 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 13 Dec. 14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Dumas Schedule

Opponent Sunray Gruver Panhandle Caprock Randall Littlefield Canadian River Road Bushland Guymon, Okla. Lamesa Tournament Hereford Stanton Tournament Canyon McLean Wellington Clarendon Stratford Canyon Littlefield Tournament Caprock Classic Tascosa Wheeler Highland Park Spearman Sanford-Fritch Perryton Stratford Borger Dalhart Pampa Perryton Borger Dalhart Pampa Perryton Borger

Place B G There X Here X There X There X There X There X There X Here X There X There X X There X X Here X X There X Here X There X There X There X Here X There X There X Lubbock X There X There X There X X Here X There X Here X Here X There X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X There X

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2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Aiden Venzor Angel Pelayo Trace Hallford Devyn Hutcherson Kyle Stroebel Colton Johnson Isaac Nevarez Brayden Rushing Isaiah Nevarez David Chavez Dylan Cortez Cristian Kelso Johnny Reynaga

Dumas Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-2 P Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-11 G Soph. 5-10 F Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-2 F Sr. 6-2 F Soph. 5-10 G Soph.

Kyle Stroebel

Dylan Cortez David Chavez

Coach: Randy Ray Asst. Coaches: Randle Morrison, Tommy Inthirath, Trace Sheldon 2018-2019 record: 10-20, 2-7 School phone: 935-4151 Players to watch: Devyn Hutcherson, Kyle Stroebel, Cristian Kelso

Johnny Reynaga Cristian Kelso

Brayden Rushing

District 3-4A Lobos keep rolling under Elam

Levelland Boys

Jordan Elam stepped into big shoes when he replaced the retiring Jeff Bontrager last season. Bontrager’s boys teams had won 405 games; Elam had been his assistant the last four years at Levelland. The shoes fit just fine. Elam inherited five starters and two other letter winners and guided the Lobos all the way to the regional finals. Levelland finished 21-13 overall. The Lobos were 5-3 in District 3-4A, tied for second with Canyon. Levelland won a coin flip for playoff positioning. In postseason play, the Lobos whipped Dalhart 69-60 in bidistrict and Seminole 62-51 in the area round. Then Levelland won a couple squeakers — 46-44 over Clint and 48-46 over Graham — in regional play before losing to Decatur 59-32 in the regional finals. Playing a tough schedule, the Lobos lost nine of their first 21 games “Couple the tough schedule with a first-year head coach and yes, we took a few lumps along the way. It paid off for us in a big way by making an appearance in the regional finals, something that has only been done a few times in the history of the school, avenging several regular season losses during the playoff run,” Elam said. “I couldn’t be more proud of our group of kids for getting us to that point.” Graduation losses cost Elam some key players. Jakeevian Ford was all-district and TABC all-region and made the Lonestar Varsity Super Team and the all-regional tournament team. Reid O’Connor was all-district and on the Lonestar Varsity Super and all-regional tourney teams. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Isaiah Salazar

Bryant White

Zaiden Lecroy

Jacob Ramirez

Kaleb Reyna

Broderick Golightly, Connor Barnett and Bryan Gonzalez also departed. Two starters return. Isaiah Salazar, a 5-10 junior guard, averaged 7.1 points and 2.4 rebounds and made the all-regional team. Bryant White, a 6-2 junior forward, contributed 4.2 ppg, 2.3 rpg. Three other letter winners — 5-5 senior guard Jacob Ramirez (4.3 ppg), 5-9 junior guard Zaiden Lecroy (2.2 ppg) and 5-9 senior guard Kaleb Reyna — are additional players to watch, (Continued on page 121)

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Name Allie Latham Michaela Watkins Brytnee Bordayo Jennifer Prado Annie Dewbre Emma Kent Mahalie Stafford Erin Tienda Mallory Blocker Jordan Campbell

Levelland Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-5 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-9 P Sr. 5-4 G Soph. 5-7 G Jr. 5-7 P Sr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-6 G Sr.

Coach: Clay Barnett Asst. Coaches: Mia Ochoa, Nathan Riggan 2018-2019 record: 32-4, 6-2 School phone: 894-8515 Players to watch: Allie Latham, Michaela Watkins, Annie Dewbre, Emma Kent DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Nov. 25 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

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Levelland Schedule

Opponent Big Spring C-City Lubbock Cooper Denver City Tascosa S.A. Central Denver City Greenwood Abernathy Andrews Denver City Tournament Glen Rose Tournament Idalou Stanton Tournament Seminole Greenwood Midland Tournament Brownwood Tournament Sweetwater Lubbock Christian Big Spring Snyder Lamesa Graham Canyon Hereford Estacado Lamesa Canyon Hereford Estacado Lamesa

Place B G Here X Here X There X Here X There X Here X Here X There X There X There X X There X There X Here X X There X There X X There X There X There X Here X There X Here X Here X Here X Jayton X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X

Name Jacob Ramirez Kaleb Reyna Kolby Head Tyler Nevarez Justus Durham Bryant White Isaiah Salazar Zaiden Lecroy Dylan Bordayo Hunter Read Kaleb Penner Luis Otero

Levelland Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-5 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-2 F Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 6-1 F Soph.

Coach: Jordan Elam Asst. Coaches: Kyle Cavitt, Jacob Perez 2018-2019 record: 21-13, 5-3 School phone: 894-8515 Players to watch: Jacob Ramirez, Kaleb Reyna, Bryant White, Isaiah Salazar, Zaiden Lecroy

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from page 119)

according to Elam. He lists shooting, ball-handling and quickness as the Lobos’ strengths. He’s concerned about a lack of size and rebounding. “We must learn how to play without much size and learn to compete on the boards every single possession. We have to maximize our quickness and ability to get the ball to the rim by pushing the ball up the floor constantly and staying aggressive throughout possessions,” Elam said. “We aren’t likely to pass any sort of physical ‘eye-test’; however, I feel if we play to our strengths, we stand a chance to be successful again this season.”

Elam was the district newcomer of the year as a junior and the offensive MVP as a senior at Denver City High School. He also was all-South Plains, all-region and the TABC free throw champion his senior year. The Texas Tech graduate coached at Lubbock Christian and Midland Lee before moving to Levelland in 2014. Last year was his first as a head coach. The Lobos will open the season Nov. 19 at Lubbock Cooper, and the first home game will be Nov. 25 against Denver City. They’ll play in the Denver City, Greenwood and Brownwood tournaments. District play will begin Jan. 17 at Canyon.

Levelland Girls

Loboettes look to reload The cupboard looks a little bare for the Loboettes. With only one starter and two other letter winners returning, even Coach Clay Barnett is concerned. “Overall lack of varsity experience and lack of size,” he said regarding his concerns for this season. But don’t bet against the Loboettes. Barnett’s six Levelland teams have won Allie Latham 161 games and lost only 12 for a .931 winning percentage. They’ve made the playoffs every year. Last year’s Loboettes won their own tournament and finished fifth in the Fort Worth Whataburger event. In a new district alignment with Canyon and Hereford dropping down from Class 5A, Levelland took second (to Canyon) in District 3-4A with a 6-2 record. The Loboettes defeated Dumas 49-24 in bidistrict, Seminole 50-35 in the area game, Hereford 51-42 in the regional quarters and Bridgeport 68-48 in the regional semis. Argyle stopped Levelland 52-37 in the regional finals. That left the Loboettes with a sparkling 32-4 overall record. Although that was just shy of the previous year’s 33-3, the 2018-19 Loboettes advanced one step further in the playoffs by reaching the regional finals. Levelland had eight seniors on last year’s roster. Four of those departed players earned special honors. Miranda Villegas was the district MVP, plus TABC and TGCA all-state. Natalie Velardez shared the district defensive player of the year award and was also TABC and TGCA all-state. Makayla Escue earned all-district, TABC all-region and TGCA all-state recognition. Kiahra Graves was all-district. That’s a lot of talent gone. The lone returning starter is 5-5 junior guard Allie Latham, who averaged 5 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists last season. Michaela Watkins, a 5-8 junior guard (2.7 ppg, 3 rpg), and Brytnee Bordayo, a 5-5 senior guard, also lettered last year. Barnett listed Latham, Watkins, 5-9 senior post Annie Dewbre and 5-4 sophomore guard Emma Kent as outstanding players 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Michaela Watkins

Brytnee Bordayo

Annie Dewbre

Emma Kent

Jennifer Prado

Mahalie Stafford

to watch. “We will need to be better on the boards, limit turnovers, and individuals will have to accept new roles for this young team to be successful,” Barnett said. Barnett is a graduate of Van Horn High School and Angelo State University. He coached at Merkel, Anson, Baird and Wellington before coming to Levelland. The Loboettes will open Nov. 12 at Big Spring. The home opener is Nov. 16 against Colorado City. They’ll play in the Glen Rose, Stanton and Midland tournaments. The District 3-4A opener is Jan. 10.

Go Loboettes! 4A

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District 1-3A Boys 1. Bushland 2. Spearman 3. Canadian 4. Tulia 5. Dimmitt 6. Muleshoe 7. River Road 8. Friona

TEAMS AT A GLANCE PRESEASON PICKS District 1-3A Girls 1. Canadian 2. Bushland 3. Spearman 4. River Road 5. Muleshoe 6. Tulia 7. Friona 8. Dimmitt

District 2-3A Boys 1. Shallowater 2. Abernathy 3. Littlefield 4. Brownfield 5. Slaton 6. Denver City 7. Idalou 8. Lubbock Roosevelt

District 2-3A Girls 1. Idalou/Shallowater 3. Brownfield 4. Slaton 5. Littlefield 6. Abernathy 7. Denver City 8. Lubbock Roosevelt

3

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District 8-3A Boys 1. Holliday 2. Childress 3. Nocona 4. Wichita Falls City View 5. Bowie 6. Henrietta

HONOR ROLL

3A Boys Jake Ayers, Abernathy, 5-8, Sr.; Bryson Daily, Abernathy, 6-1, Sr.; Nick DeAnda, Abernathy, 6-1, Sr.; Sagen Gonzalez, Abernathy, 6-0, Sr.; Miles Keith, Abernathy, 6-4, Sr.; Cole Mosley, Bushland, 6-2, Sr.; Bridge Andrews, Bushland, 6-5, Sr.; Skyler Jaco, Bushland, 6-0, Sr.; Jake Orcutt, Bushland, 6-0, Sr.; Jaylin Marshal, Bushland, 6-4, Jr.; Brody Sutterfield, Bushland, 6-1, Jr.; Josh Culwell, Canadian, 6-2, Jr.; Saul Escamilla, Canadian, 6-2, Sr.; Grant McCook, Canadian, 6-0, Sr.; Matthew Cochran, Childress, 5-10, Sr.; JaMarcus Hampton, Childress, 5-10, Sr.; Trent Mayden, Childress, 5-10, Sr.; Devron Sims, Childress, 5-11, Jr.; Josh Tucker, Childress, 5-10, Jr.; Lane Foster, Childress, 5-10, Jr.; Jacob Freeman, Denver City, 5-10, Sr.; Nick Rodriguez, Denver City, 5-7, Sr.; Elias Yanez, Denver City, 5-10, Sr.; Joseph Ramirez, Denver City, 6-3, Sr.; Jaxon Maxwell, Denver City, 6-0, Jr.; Bryan Chavira, Friona, 5-9, Soph.; Jesus Flores, Friona, 6-1, Sr.; Zeke Garcia, Friona, 5-8, Sr.; Jose Grado, Friona, 6-2, Sr.; Jackson Stanton, Idalou, 6-0, Jr.; Xzaver Tarin, Idalou, 5-11, Sr.; Tucker Kidd, Idalou, 6-1, Sr.; Daniel Stinson, Littlefield, 5-9, Sr.; Jeremiah Salazar, Littlefield, 5-6, Jr.; Jonathan Davis, Littlefield, 6-1, Sr.; Andrew Valdez, Littlefield, 5-9, Sr.; Joseph Trevino, Littlefield, 5-9, Sr.; Jalen Brattain, Shallowater, 6-8, Sr.; Hunter Gossett, Shallowater, 5-11, Sr.; Tyler McCall, Shallowater, 6-2, Sr.; Caden Gillespie, Shallowater, 5-8, Jr.; Quevon McDaniel, Slaton, Sr.; Hudson Sackett, Slaton, Jr.; Mike Solis, Slaton, Sr.; Peyton Black, Spearman, 6-8, Sr.; Adrian Bonilla, Spearman, 6-0, Sr.; Levi Garnett, Spearman, 6-0, Sr.; Jack Wilkerson, Spearman, 6-0, Jr.; Brenen Thompson, Spearman, 5-11, Soph.

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3A Girls Anaya Rodriguez, Abernathy, 5-6, Sr.; Wrye Akers, Abernathy, 5-8. Sr.; Chanie Chambers, Abernathy, 5-7, Jr.; Ragan May, Abernathy, 5-8, Sr.; Cheyann Shadden, Abernathy, 5-8, Sr.; Lindsey Herrera, Brownfield, 5-1, Soph.; Gabby Fields, Brownfield, 5-5, Soph.; Dabria Blackwell, Brownfield, 5-2, Soph.; Tia Johnson, Brownfield, 5-10, Soph.; Deja Johnson, Brownfield, 5-10, Soph.; Ansley Sims, Bushland, 5-8, Sr.; Taryn Shultz, Bushland, 5-8, Jr.; Kayleigh Homfeld, Bushland, 6-1, Jr.; Emma Troxell, Bushland, 5-11, Fr.; Mattie Boyd, Canadian, 6-0, Soph.; Briley Merket, Canadian, 5-9, Soph.; Jayleen Villarreal, Denver City, 5-6, Sr.; Moraima Villegas, Denver City, 5-6, Sr.; Valarie Yanez, Denver City, 5-8, Jr.; Carly Drake, Friona, 5-11, Sr.; Maddie Sharrock, Friona, 5-7, Sr.; Sharlene Maldonado, Friona, 5-7, Jr.; Shaylee Stovall, Idalou, 5-7, Sr.; Taylor Houston, Idalou, 5-11, Soph.; Emmy Craig, Idalou, 5-8, Jr.; Madelyn Merrell, Idalou, 5-10, Sr.; Kaitlyn Edgemon, Littlefield, 5-10; Kamryn Gibbs, Slaton, 5-5, Sr.; TK Robinson, Slaton, 5-7, Sr.; Zanady Coronado, Slaton, 5-5, Sr.; Jazmyn Jackson, Slaton, 5-6, Sr.; Mary Jo Parker, Slaton, 5-9, Jr.; Andrea Moreno, Slaton, 5-10, Jr.; Shaylyn Whiteley, Spearman, 5-6, Sr.; Maggie Davis, Spearman, 5-10, Jr.; Candice Mackie, Spearman, 5-7, Jr.; Mia Pipkin, Spearman, 5-11, Jr.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

District 1-3A Falcons hope to fly farther

Bushland Boys

The Falcons’ flight was terminated in the bidistrict round for the second year in a row. That 67-50 loss to Brownfield occurred after Bushland had finished third in District 1-3A with a 10-4 record. The Falcons wound up 16-14 for the season. The key loss off last year’s team was 6-5 forward Clayton Heetland, who averaged 13.2 points and 5.2 rebounds. Heetland earned all-district distinction and Amarillo Globe-News Class 4A-3A Golden Spread honors. The Falcons have an all-district player returning in 6-0 senior guard Jake Orcutt, who contributed 9.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg last season. Orcutt started alongside 6-2 senior guard Cole Mosley (3.1 ppg, 2.5 rpg). In addition to those two returning starters, four other returning letter winners bear watching, according to Coach Kendall Cogburn. That quartet is 6-5 senior forward Bridge Andrews (5.5 ppg, 4.3 rpg), 6-0 senior guard Skyler Jaco (3.1 ppg, 2.1 rpg), 6-4 junior forward Jaylin Marshal (3 ppg, 2 rpg) and 6-1 junior guard Brody Sutterfield (4 ppg). Cogburn stresses tradition as a Falcon strength. “Under the leadership of our seniors and a strong junior class, I feel that we can mold a successful team,” he said. “I’m also excited about our size combined with shooting ability this year.” (Continued on next page)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jake Orcutt

Bridge Andrews Cole Mosley

Brody Sutterfield Jaylin Marshal

Nathan Welch

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He is concerned about the Falcons staying healthy. That and learning how to win big games in the fourth quarter are the keys for success this season, according to Cogburn. Cogburn played basketball at Randall High School, Wayland Baptist University and West Texas A&M University. Before coming to Bushland, he coached at Claude, Wylie and Happy. He’s beginning his fourth year at the Falcons’ helm with a 97-54 overall boys coaching record. Bushland’s opener will be Nov. 19 at Borger. The home opener will be Nov. 26 against Dumas. The Falcons will play in the Nazareth and Midland Greenwood tournaments. District 1-3A play begins Jan. 2.

Clayton Seales

Tanner Troxell Taycen Gerber

Name Cole Mosley Bridge Andrews Skyler Jaco Jake Orcutt Jaylin Marshal Brody Sutterfield Nathan Welch Clayton Seales Taycen Gerber Tanner Troxell

Bushland Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-2 G Sr. 6-5 F Sr. 6-0 G Sr. 6-0 G Sr. 6-4 F Jr. 6-1 G Jr. 6-1 G Jr. 6-5 F Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr.

Coach: Kendall Cogburn Asst. Coaches: Derek Mauldin, David Sutterfield 2018-2019 record: 16-14, 10-4 School phone: 359-5418 Players to watch: Cole Mosley, Bridge Andrews, Skyler Jaco, Jake Orcutt, Jaylin Marshal, Brody Sutterfield

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2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Bushland Girls

Lady Falcons roll under new coach Chris Marks certainly made his mark in his debut season as the Lady Falcons coach last season. All he did was guide Bushland to the best girls season in school history with a 27-7 record. The Lady Falcons were runners-up in the Midland Tournament in non-conference play. They went 13-1 in District 1-3A, sharing the championship with Canadian. In the playoffs, Bushland defeated Aber- Makenna Morgan nathy 44-32 in bidistrict and Ballinger 46-20 in the area game. The season ended with a 39-34 loss to Idalou in the regional quarterfinals. Graduation took a heavy toll on Bushland. Six seniors were listed on last year’s roster. The key departure was Skylar Cleavinger, who signed to play at Oklahoma Panhandle State University. Cleavinger was the district player of the year, TABC all-region, a member of the Amarillo Globe-News Girls Super Team and the player of the year on the AGN 4A-3A Golden Spread team. All-district selections Sabrina Lovett and A.J. Jackson also are gone. Marks has one all-district honoree returning. Makenna Morgan, a 5-9 senior guard, averaged 12 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists last season. Morgan is the lone returning starter.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Ansley Sims

Taryn Shultz

Rosie Wright

Marks designated four additional players — 5-8 senior guard Ansley Sims (4 ppg, 4 rpg), 5-8 junior guard Taryn Shultz (6 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg), 6-1 junior center Kayleigh Homfeld and 5-11 freshman guard/forward Emma Troxell — as ones to watch. Only four letter winners return. Marks considers the youth (only two seniors on the roster) and inexperience as areas of concern. He pinpoints the Lady Falcons’ strengths as the “second year of our system, continuing high expectations.” As far as the key for success, he said, “Young players stepping up immediately.” Marks came to Bushland with 23 years of coaching experience in the college and high school ranks. The Tarleton State (Continued on next page)

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University graduate coached at Sul Ross State College and served as an assistant at Clarendon College and at his alma mater. As a collegian, he was on Tarleton’s track team. The Lady Falcons will play in the Nazareth and Dimmitt tournaments. Name Makenna Morgan Ansley Sims Taryn Shultz Rosie Wright Haylee Sessions Kayleigh Homfeld Timberlie Boydston Emma Troxell

Bushland Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-9 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-5 G Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 6-1 P Jr. 5-4 G Soph. 5-11 G/F Fr.

Coach: Chris Marks Asst. Coach: Scott Sims 2018-2019 record: 27-7, 13-1 School phone: 359-5418 Players to watch: Taryn Shultz, Ansley Sims, Emma Troxell, Kayleigh Homfeld Bushland Schedule DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 2 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10

Opponent Gruver Stratford Wellington Vega Borger Dumas Farwell Dalhart Nazareth Tournament Memphis

Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 27 Dec. 28 Jan 2 Jan. 4 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb.18

Pampa Midland Greenwood Tournament Dimmitt Tournament Friona Stratford Groom Hereford Muleshoe Dimmitt Clarendon Canadian Tulia Spearman Friona River Road Muleshoe Canadian Dimmitt Spearman Tulia River Road Friona Canadian

Here X There X There There There X Here Here X Here X There X Here X There There X Here X Here X There X There X Here X Here X There X Here X Here X There X There X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Place B G There X There X Here X Here X There X Here X Here X There X There X X Here X

Canadian Boys

Little time for learning Coach Brandon Wall called last season a learning experience as he introduced his system in his first year as the Wildcats’ coach. Trouble was, there was little time for learning at Canadian, a traditional football power. Getting a late start, as usual, because of football, the Wildcats played only three non-district games. They went 9-5 in District 1-3A to finish fourth, then lost their bidistrict game to Shallowater 71-47. That capped a 10-9 season. “Last season was very much a learning for our players into a new system,” Wall said. “We played well at times but couldn’t seem to overcome a late start.” Payton Collier, first-team all-district, was the key departure among the five seniors listed on last year’s roster. Wall welcomed back three returning starters and four other letter winners this fall. The returning starters are: • Grant McCook, a 6-0 senior guard, averaged 9.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.4 assists last season. He is the younger brother of Garrison McCook, a senior on last year’s team. • Josh Culwell, a 6-2 junior guard, contributed 3.1 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.1 apg. He also has an older brother, Aidan Culwell, who played last year. 126

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• Bill Koetting, a 5-11 senior guard, scored 5.4 points a game last season. He has a twin brother — 5-11 senior guard Jack Koetting — on this year’s squad. The twins are the sons of Canadian football Coach Chris Koetting. Wall lists the Wildcats’ strengths as athleticism, rebounding and quickness. He is concerned about scoring. He outlined several keys for success this season: • Playing the game with great pace; • Defensively being physical and limiting paint touches; • Offensively moving the ball quickly and getting the ball to the paint. Wall is a graduate of Justin Northwest High School and Texas Tech University. He coached at Hereford, Lubbock Monterey and Childress before coming to Canadian. In his first head coaching job, his Childress Bobcats went 30-5 and earned a state tournament berth in 2014-15. Wall’s five-year record as a boys head coach is 106-30, a .779 winning percentage. The Wildcats tentatively are scheduled to open their season in their own Canadian Classic Dec. 27-28. The District 1-3A opener is Jan. 2. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Canadian Schedule

DATE

Opponent

Place

Nov. 12

Farwell

Vega

X

Nov. 16

Wheeler

There

X

Nov. 19

Borger

There

X

Nov. 23

Dumas

Here

X

Nov. 26

Perryton

There

X

Dec. 3

Panhandle

Here

X

Dec. 5-7

Nazareth Tournament

There

X

Dec. 10

Childress

Here

X

Dec. 12-14

West Texas Tournament

There

X

Dec. 20

Muleshoe

There

X

Dec. 27-28

Canadian Classic

Here

X X

Jan. 2

Friona

There

X X

Jan. 4

Tulia

Here

X X

Jan. 7

Bushland

Here

Jan. 10

Dimmitt

There

X X

Jan. 14

River Road

Here

X X

Jan. 17

Muleshoe

Here

X X

Jan. 21

Spearman

There

X X

Jan. 24

Friona

Here

X X

Jan. 28

Bushland

There

X X

Jan. 31

Tulia

There

X X

Feb. 4

River Road

There

X X

Feb. 7

Dimmitt

Here

X X

Feb. 11

Spearman

Here

X X

Feb. 14

Muleshoe

There

X

Feb. 18

Bushland

Here

X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

B G

Name Mattie Boyd Briley Merket Jasymn Moreno Maddie Spence Kenna Cavalier Kennedi Cook Tinley Pennington Parker Lee Gracie Huntress

Canadian Girls Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 P Soph. 5-9 G Soph. 5-4 G Jr. 5-7 F Jr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-10 G/F Soph. 5-5 G Soph. 5-6 G Jr. 5-7 F Sr.

Coach: Aaron Marks Asst. Coaches: Doug Boyd, Josh Mayhew 2018-2019 record: 30-4, 13-1 School phone: 323-5373 Players to watch: Mattie Boyd, Briley Merket

X

Name Josh Culwell Twister Kelton Gary Anderson Saul Escamilla Grant McCook Stephen Pulliam Reagan Cochran Jack Koetting Bill Koetting

Canadian Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-2 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-2 P Sr. 6-0 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-2 F Jr. 5-11 G Sr. 5-11 G Sr.

Coach: Brandon Wall Asst. Coaches: Jeff Isom, Hayden Merket , Tim Fletcher, Chase Palmore 2018-2019 record: 10-9, 9-5 School phone: 323-5373 Players to watch: Josh Culwell, Saul Escamilla, Grant McCook

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Canadian Girls

Ex-Farwell coach to guide Lady Cats Aaron Marks, who fared well at Farwell, is the new coach for the Lady Cats. Marks was a two-time all-state player at Aspermont High School. The Tarleton State University graduate began his coaching career at Sterling City. Later he coached at Whitharral, then Farwell. He has led teams to playoffs in nine consecutive seasons. Last season his Farwell Lady Steers shared the District 3-2A title and wound up 30-4 overall. Farwell lost in the area round. Marks brings a 205-89 girls coaching record to Canadian. He succeeds Kevin Richardson, who coached the Lady Cats for 18 years. Richardson guided the Lady Cats to the 2005 Class 2A state finals and to the 2017 Class 3A state championship. He has a 20-year coaching record of 532-121, an .815 winning percentage. Richardson moved to Wall to take the girls job there. The job opened up when Wall Coach Tate Lombard decided to join his dad, Joe Lombard, at Canyon. Tate Lombard is his father’s assistant coach. Coincidentally, Richardson’s last game as the Canadian coach was against Tate Lombard’s Wall team in last year’s area round. Wall prevailed 58-41 and went on to the Class 3A state semifinals. That ended Canadian’s season at 30-4. Earlier the Lady Cats had earned a District 1-3A co-championship with a 13-1 league record. Canadian nipped Denver City 44-42 in bidistrict. Richardson’s last team had nine seniors. The most notable were Salym Cook, who was the district offensive MVP, and three all-district players: Taylor Altmiller, Emma Key and Victoria Valenzuela. So Marks has just one returning starter and one other letter winner. Mattie Boyd, a 6-0 sophomore post, started last year and was the district newcomer of the year. Kenna Cavalier, a 5-6 senior guard, lettered last season. Cavalier and 5-7 forward Gracie Huntress are the only seniors on the Canadian roster. Marks nominates Boyd and 5-9 sophomore guard Briley Merket as all-state candidates.

Mattie Boyd

Kenna Cavalier

Gracie Huntress

Briley Merket

Jasymn Moreno

Maddie Spence

Parker Lee

Kennedi Cook

Tinley Pennington

Defense, versatility, an eagerness to prove themselves and Canadian’s winning tradition are the Lady Cats’ strengths, according to Marks. He is concerned about the team’s youth and the implementation of a new system. “Buying into a new system and developing some depth” will be the keys for success this season, Marks said. Interestingly, Canadian’s first game will be against Farwell, Marks’ old team, to be played in Vega Nov.12. The home opener is set for Nov. 23 against Dumas. The Lady Cats will play in the Nazareth, West Texas High and Canadian classic tournaments. District 1-3A play begins Dec. 20.

The Canadian Lady Cats prepare for changes in 2019-2020 with a new coach and the loss of nine seniors from last season.

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Friona Boys

Chieftains have new coach Tim Ashlock, fresh from leading Hart into the playoffs, is the new coach of the Chieftains. Ashlock is a graduate of Caprock High School and West Texas A&M University. He has seven years of head coaching experience, having coached at Sinton (as an assistant), Agua Dulce, Dimmitt (assistant) and Hart. He brings a 72-138 overall boys coaching record to Friona. He was at Hart for four years and his final team went 13-12 overall and 7-3 in district. His Longhorns lost their Class 1A bidistrict game to Happy 76-46 last spring. Ashlock succeeds Jake Ebeling, who coached the Chieftains for two seasons. Ebeling’s Friona teams went 3-50 and 1-27 in district play. The Chieftains struggled last season, winning only one of 29 games. They finished last in District 1-3A at 0-14. So Ashlock has his work cut out for him. However, he said, “The whole team returns from last year, so we have good varsity experience.” Ashlock designated four players as ones to watch this season. They are 6-2 senior guard Jose Grado, 5-9 sophomore guard Bryan Chavira, 6-1 senior post Jesus Flores and 5-8 senior guard Zeke Garcia. In addition to the experience, the Chieftains have good team speed, according to Ashlock. He is concerned about the Chieftains’ shooting from the outside and size on the inside. “We really need to stay positive through the year and understand it is a new year,” Ashlock said. “We will need to play at a fast pace and use our speed to our advantage. Hopefully, we will be able to find some shooters from (the) 3-point line.” The Chieftains’ home opener is Nov. 19 against Littlefield. Friona will play in the Adrian and Farwell tournaments. District 1-3A play begins Jan. 2.

Jose Grado

Jesus Flores

Bryan Chavira

Alex Santiago

David Martinez

Friona Super Boosters Kody, Kim, Kendall & Kambree Kimbrough

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Friona Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-9 G Soph. 6-1 P Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 6-2 G Sr. 5-11 P Jr. 6-0 P Sr. 6-0 P Sr. 6-1 G Soph. 5-10 G Soph. 6-0 G Sr.

Name Bryan Chavira Jesus Flores Zeke Garcia Jose Grado David Martinez Elian Mendoza Andrew Montana Jerrod Rejino Andrew Rivera Alex Santiago

Coach: Tim Ashlock Asst. Coaches: David Towner, Josh Portillo 2018-2019 record: 1-28, 0-14 School phone: 250-3951 Players to watch: Bryan Chavira, Jesus Flores, Zeke Garcia, Jose Grado Friona Schedule

DATE Nov. 8

Opponent Bovina

Place B G Here X

Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Nov. 25 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Jan. 2 Jan. 4 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Hartley Littlefield Vega Boys Ranch Sunray Adrian Tournament Adrian Farwell Tournament Springlake-Earth Bushland Claude Canadian River Road Muleshoe Highland Park Spearman Tulia Bushland Dimmitt Canadian Muleshoe River Road Tulia Spearman Dimmitt Bushland Muleshoe

There Here X Here X There X There X There X Here X There X Here X Here There X Here X There X There Here X There X Here X There X Here X There X Here X Here X There X Here X There X Here X There X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Friona Girls

Squaws get third coach in three years The Squaws have their third coach in as many years. Jay Thackston, a New Englander who changed sports and moved to Texas, will direct Friona this season. Thackston is a graduate of Essex Junction, Vermont, High School and Boston University. In high school, he played on a football team that was the state runner-up and a hockey team that won state. He previously coached in Clovis, New Carly Drake Mexico, and Bovina. He succeeds Pam Husted, who is now serving as Thackston’s assistant. Husted also is Friona’s volleyball coach. Husted coached the Squaws only one season, having stepped in after David Woods left the previous season. The Squaws went 9-21 last season under Husted. They were

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Maddie Sharrock

Lizbeth Rojas

Andrea Chavez

2-12 in District 1-3A, finishing seventh in the eight-team conference. Five seniors listed on last year’s roster – Mariah Trevino, Bailey Pope, Emma Rector, Josselyn Castillo and Amelia San(Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page)

doval – have moved on. Thackston has seven seniors, along with three juniors and a sophomore, on this year’s roster. Carly Drake, a 5-11 senior post; Maddie Sharrock, a 5-7 senior guard; and Sharlene Maldonado, a 5-7 junior guard; are players to watch, according to Thackston. Thackston describes speed as his team’s strength. The keys for the Squaws’ success this season will be “hard work and dedication to team goals,” he said. The Squaws will open their season Nov. 8 at home against Bovina. They’ll play in the Adrian and Farwell events. District 1-3A play for the girls gets under way Dec. 20.

Name Carly Drake Maddie Sharrock Lizbeth Rojas Andrea Chavez Karina Gomez Kylee Sifuentes Olga Trevizo Kambree Kimbrough Sharlene Maldonado Jodi Denton Anahi Gonzalez

Friona Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-11 P Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-10 F Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-7 G Soph.

Coach: Jay Thackston Asst. Coaches: Pam Husted, Carri King, Dave Gonzales 2018-2019 record: 2-12 School phone: 250-2821 Players to watch: Carly Drake, Maddie Sharrock, Sharlene Maldonado

Go Friona!

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Spearman Boys

Lynx look to build on 32-3 year Last season was a banner year for the Lynx as they advanced further than any Spearman boys team in 41 years. The Lynx won three tournaments — Vega, West Texas High and Gruver — and posted key non-conference wins over Wheeler, Perryton and Pampa. Then Spearman rolled to the District 1-3A championship with a 13-1 record. The Lynx defeated Littlefield 58-34 in bidistrict, San Angelo Texas Leadership Charter Academy 62-58 in the area game and Shallowater 51-48 in the regional quarterfinals. Childress terminated the Lynx’ season 54-47 in the regional semifinals. Spearman finished the season a sparkling 32-3. “Last season was the first time the Lynx made it to the regional tournament since 1978,” Coach Craig Black said. “There was great team chemistry along with special players that made a deep run in the playoffs. It was a special season for our team, school and community.” Graduation losses were heavy. Abraham Bonilla was TABC all-state and all-region, second team on the Amarillo Globe-News Boys Super selections, on the AGN 4A-3A Golden Spread team and the district MVP. Arturo Camacho was the district defensive player of the year. Reid Harrell and Reece Shields were all-district. Cristian Valles completed last year’s five-player senior class.

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Peyton Black

Levi Garnett

Jack Wilkerson

Only one starter returns this season. That would be Peyton Black, a 6-8 senior forward who averaged 8 points and 9 rebounds last season. The son of Coach Black, he was an all-district honorable mention. The Lynx return four letter winners, including Levi Garnett, a 6-0 senior guard who contributed 6 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists per game in earning the district newcomer of the year award. Coach Black considers Peyton Black and Garnett as all-state material. The other returning letter winners are 6-0 junior guard Jack Wilkerson (8 ppg, 2 rpg), who was an AD honorable mention, (Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page)

and 6-0 senior forward Adrian Bonilla (2 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg), the brother of Abraham Bonilla. Wilkerson, Adrian Bonilla and 5-11 sophomore guard Brenen Thompson are players to watch, according to Coach Black. “This year’s team brings back a core of experienced players that have been in a winning culture,” Black said. “There is a good combination of height inside with quality shooters on the outside.” His main concern centers on a lack of depth. As for the keys to success, he said, “We need for the core players to step up and carry on the success from last year’s team. It is important that we play great team defense and share the ball on offense.” Black is beginning his seventh season at Spearman. The Levelland High School and Angelo State University graduate previously coached at Anson. He has a 147-120 career boys coaching record. The Lynx will open their season Nov. 19 at Dalhart. The home opener will be Nov. 26 against Sunray. The Lynx will participate in the Vega, West Texas and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District play begins Jan. 2.

Adrian Bonilla

Charles Pearson Jackson Riggins

Name Peyton Black Adrian Bonilla Levi Garnett Jackson Riggins Charles Pearson Jack Wilkerson Tonny Varela Brody Coates Brenen Thompson Fabian Hernandez

Spearman Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-8 F Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-0 G Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 6-2 F Sr. 6-0 G Jr. 6-3 P Jr. 5-11 G Jr. 5-11 G Soph. 5-10 G Soph.

Coach: Craig Black Asst. Coaches: Brandon Gipe, Brian Mancini 2018-2019 record: 32-3, 13-1 School phone: 659-2563 Players to watch: Peyton Black, Adrian Bonilla, Levi Garnett, Jack Wilkerson, Brenen Thompson

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Nov. 30 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 27-28

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Spearman Schedule

Opponent Wellington Perryton Dalhart Pampa Sunray Randall Texline Peaster Tournament Vega Tournament West Texas West Texas Tournament White Deer Tournament Gruver Tulia Caprock Tournament Canadian Tournament

Place B G Here X There X There X There X Here X X Here X There X There X There X Here X X There X There X Here X Here X Lubbock X There X

Jan. 2 Jan. 4 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Dimmitt Muleshoe River Road Dumas Friona Bushland Tulia Canadian Dimmitt River Road Muleshoe Bushland Friona Canadian Tulia River Road

Here X There X There There X Here X There X There X Here X There X Here X Here X Here X There X There X Here X There X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Spearman Girls

Lynxettes excel under new coach Kurt Richardson’s debut at Spearman was a 20-10 success. The Lynxettes posted 20 wins (20-13) overall and 10 (10-4) in District 1-3A. That merited a third-place district finish. Spearman lost its bidistrict playoff game to Shallowater 50-32. “The players did a good job of adjusting to a new coach and several new varsity players. Shaylyn Whiteley Even with the changes, our girls continued to improve throughout the season,” Richardson said. “We are proud of the way we competed through a tough district to earn a playoff spot.” Richardson did suffer a setback in family pride. His Lynxettes lost twice to district co-champion Canadian, coached by his brother, Kevin Richardson. That brotherly battle is unlikely to continue — unless they meet in a tournament or in the playoffs — because Kevin Richardson has moved to Wall. Spearman suffered numerous losses via graduation. A key departure was Maddie McCloy, who was the district defensive MVP and TGCA all-state. Jaden Blan, Caylin Brown, Crystal Mendoza, Avery Connelly and Angela Flores also moved on. Two all-district performers return. Shaylyn Whiteley, a 5-6

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Mia Pipkin

Maggie Davis

Candice Mackie

senior guard, averaged 4.4 points and 2.3 rebounds last season. Mia Pipkin, a 5-11 junior post, contributed 8.8 ppg and 6.1 rpg. In addition to those two, Coach Richardson tabs 5-10 junior forward Maggie Davis (4.2 ppg, 2.1 rpg) and 5-7 junior forward Candice Mackie (4.9 ppg, 4.1 rpg) as players to watch. All four players lettered last season. Whiteley was a full-time starter while Pipkin and Mackie were part-time starters. “Depth could be a concern as we have only four players with varsity experience,” Richardson said. He described shooting, a strong post game and team defense as the Lynxettes’ strengths. “Limiting turnovers is the key,” he said. “We should have a (Continued on next page)

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better shooting team and play tough team defense in the half court. But to take advantage of those things, we cannot allow our opponents to convert turnovers into easy points.” Richardson is a graduate of Canyon High School and West Texas A&M University. Before coming to Spearman, he coached girls teams at Panhandle and Abilene Wylie. His career girls coaching record is 334-116, a 742 winning percentage. Spearman’s opener is Nov. 12 at home against Wellington. The Lynxettes will play in the Peaster, White Deer and Canadian tournaments. District1-3A play begins Dec. 20.

Spearman Super Boosters Coach Todd, Krista, Tanner & Trenton Baird Stephen & Tammy Kay Batton—Go Lynx & Lynxettes!! Coach Tate & Janneth Batton Craig, Stacie, Peyton & Landrie Black Brown, Graham & Co., P.C. Irvin & Betty Jean Davis First Baptist Church Keith, Jodie & Tyann Hight Jason, Macy, Conner & Tessa Holton Britt & Linda Jarvis Junior Lusby Cats

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Name Shaylyn Whiteley Maggie Davis Candice Mackie Mia Pipkin Yasmin Anguiano Jaemi Saenz

Spearman Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 5-10 F Jr. 5-7 F Jr. 5-11 P Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-1 G Jr.

Coach: Kurt Richardson Asst. Coaches: Starla Whiteley, Steve Walker, Maidie Reining 2018-2019 record: 20-13, 10-4 School phone: 659-2563 Players to watch: Shaylyn Whiteley, Maggie Davis, Candice Mackie, Mia Pipkin

Lasater & Company Lozano Athletics Michael, Jess Anne, Braylen, Layne & Kolt Lusby Casey, Lexi & Kyson McAnally Wm. Clay & Dr. Kimberly Montgomery Dennis & Judy Nelson Caleb & Ashly Patterson Family Mike, Sandi & Calli Pearson PTCI John & Tootie Scott

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Hank, Melissa, Mabry & Judd Sutterfield Sawer & Alex Sutterfield James Umsted Family Vaquera Painting Anthony & Linda Wilkerson Chad, Sam, Jack & Ella Wilkerson

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District 2-3A Antelopes on the run again

Abernathy Boys

The Antelopes had a successful run last season under new Coach Nathan Branum, and prospects look bright for this year. Stepping up to the Class 3A level, Abernathy posted a winning record at 18-14 last season. The Antelopes finished in a tie for second in District 2-3A with a 10-4 league log. Then they reached the regional quarBryson Daily terfinals in the playoffs. They slipped past Tulia 68-64 in bidistrict and Wall 49-43 in the area round before succumbing to Brownfield 71-43 in the regional quarters. “Our players did a great job adapting to a new system and coming together to have a very successful year,” Branum said. “We competed well in district and were able to advance further than any Antelope team since 2007.” Three all-district honorable mentions — Joseph Sanchez, Janson Teal and Malachi Loredo — have moved on from that team. However, three starters return, along with five other letter winners. All three returning starters scored in double digits last season. Bryson Daily, a 6-1 senior guard, averaged 16.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists in earning all-district, TABC all-region and Lonestar Varsity second-team honors. Sagen Gonzalez, a 6-0 senior guard, contributed 14.8 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 2.8 apg and was all-district. So was 6-4 senior forward Mikes Keith (11.2 ppg, 9.7 rpg). Those three represent 42 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. All three merit all-state consideration, according to their coach. Branum tabs two other letter winners — 5-8 senior guard Jake Ayers (2.3 ppg) and Nick DeAnda (4.2 ppg, 3.4 rpg) — as additional players to watch. Experience, athleticism and team chemistry are the Antelopes’ strengths, according to Branum. He is concerned about height and the players understanding their roles. “We need our players to take ownership over the program and push each other to improve as individuals to reach new heights as a program,” he said. “Also, we need to have confidence in our abilities to compete with the upper level of 3A.” Before coming to Abernathy, Branum coached at Nazareth and Clyde. The Shallowater High School and Texas Tech University graduate has an overall boys coaching record of 155-73, a .680 winning percentage. The Lopes’ opener is Nov. 23 at Midland Greenwood. They’ll 140 3A

Sagen Gonzalez

Miles Keith

Jake Ayers

Nick DeAnda

Sylvester Torrez

Seth Bender

Matt DeAnda

Avery Clarkson

Konnor Hoerman

play in the Nazareth, Dimmitt and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District 2-3A play begins Jan. 3.

Abernathy Super Boosters Go Lopes and Lady Lopes!—The Bender Family Good Luck Lady Lopes and Lopes!—Justin, Tish, Heath & Harlow Good Luck this year Mallory #23! We are so proud of you!—Love, Mom & Dad Go Ragan!—Love, Mom, Dad, Kelbi & Ramsi 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Jake Ayers Bryson Daily Nick DeAnda Sagen Gonzalez Miles Keith Sylvester Torrez Seth Bender Avery Clarkson

Abernathy Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 G Sr. 6-1 G Sr. 6-1 G Sr. 6-0 G Sr. 6-4 F Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-0 G Jr. 6-1 G Jr.

Matt DeAnda Konnor Hoerman

6-1 6-4

F F

Jr. Jr.

Coach: Nathan Branum Asst. Coaches: Lee Bender, Mike Keith 2018-2019 record: 18-14, 10-4 School phone: 298-2563 Players to watch: Bryson Daily, Miles Keith, Sagen Gonzalez, Nick DeAnda, Jake Ayers

Abernathy Girls

Lady Lopes adjusting to 3A play The Lady Lopes made the big step up to Class 3A last season and found the competition a little stiffer. After going undefeated in capturing back-to-back 2A district titles the previous two years, Abernathy finished fourth in District 2-3A with an 8-6 record last season. The Lady Lopes lost to Bushland (formerly a 4A team) 44-32 in bidistrict, capping a 13-18 overall campaign. “We went through a lot of injuries but really came together at the end of the season,” Coach Justin Barton said. Seniors Kaitlin Nick, Addison Royal and Naomi Aguirre were the major losses from last year’s squad. Barton has a lot of experience — nine letter winners — returning this season. Leading the way is 5-8 senior guard Cheyann Shadden, who averaged 8.3 points and 5.2 rebounds and earned all-district honors a year ago. Ragan May, a 5-8 senior guard, contributed 5.8 ppg and 2.6 rpg. Wrye Akers, a 5-8 junior guard, chipped in 3.5 ppg and 3.4 rpg. Barton considers Shadden, May and Akers as all-state candidates. He tabs 5-6 senior guard Anaya Rodriguez (5 ppg, 2.6 rpg) and 5-7 junior guard Chanie Chambers (3.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg) as additional outstanding players to watch. That’s a lot of depth (10 on the roster) at the guard position. Experience and speed are the Lady Lopes’ strengths, according to Barton. He is concerned about the overall height of his team. “We need to really progress with our defense, and offensively we have to take care of the ball better,” said Barton in addressing the keys for success. “We have to stay healthy this year because our district is brutal. I’m expecting our kids to really step up this year after seeing what it takes against this 3A district.” Barton is beginning his fourth season coaching at his high school alma mater. The Texas Tech University graduate has guided the Lady Lopes to a 63-35 record in three years. Before coming to Abernathy, Barton coached at Shallowater, Olton and Littlefield. He has 10 years of head coaching experience. The Lady Lopes will open their season Nov. 12 at Panhandle, the Class 2A state semifinalist last season. The home opener will be Nov. 19 against Tascosa. They’ll play in their own Abernathy Tournament, plus the Shallowater and Lubbock Caprock events. District 2-3A play begins Dec. 17.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Cheyann Shadden

Ragan May

Wrye Akers

Anaya Rodriguez

Makenzie Martinez

Avery Myatt

Samantha Pierson

Pilar Sanchez

Mallory Vanstory

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 23 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Abernathy Schedule

Opponent Panhandle Ropes Tascosa Abernathy Tournament Midland Greenwood Levelland Childress Tulia Tahoka Shallowater Tournament Nazareth Tournament Estacado Snyder Dimmitt Tournament Littlefield Canyon Idalou Idalou Caprock Classic Slaton Denver City Roosevelt Brownfield Shallowater Littlefield Idalou Slaton Denver City Roosevelt Brownfield Shallowater Littlefield Idalou

Place B G There X There X Here X Here X There X Here X There X Here X Here X There X There X Here X Here X There X Here X There X There X There X Lubbock X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X Here X

Name Wrye Akers Chanie Chambers Khaki Dubose Makenzie Martinez Mayra Martinez Ragan May Avery Myatt Samantha Pierson Anaya Rodriguez Pilar Sanchez Cheyann Shadden Mallory Vanstory

Abernathy Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 G Sr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-9 G/F Jr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-8 P Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-8 F/P Sr.

Coach: Justin Barton Asst. Coaches: Haley Havens, Beth Juarez, Matt Rehkoph 2018-2019 record: 13-18, 8-6 School phone: 298-4911 Players to watch: Cheyann Shadden, Wrye Akers, Ragan May, Anaya Rodriguez, Chanie Chambers

Good luck, Lopes and Lady Lopes!

Brownfield Boys

Cubs coming off big season The Cubs capitalized on a strong senior class and a drop in classification to post a fine season in 2018-19. Brownfield showed early signs of progress, taking third in the Canyon Kids Inc. Classic by beating Abilene Cooper in the medal game. Playing at the 3A level for the first time in years, the Cubs went 10-4 and finished second in District 2-3A. In the playoffs, Brownfield rolled over Bushland 67-50 in bidistrict, Crane 79-49 in the area game and Abernathy 71-43 in the regional quarterfinals. Brock eliminated the Cubs 67-52 in the regional semifinals. That ended a 22-9 season for Brownfield. “A pretty good run for the Cubs. We really hit our stride at the end of the district season,” Coach Steve Rhodes said. “We played as good as any team I have ever had in the first three games of the UIL tournament. The regional tournament we ran into a great squad in Brock.” Brock later lost by one point to Dallas Madison in the state 3A championship game. The Cubs had nine seniors on last year’s roster and six of them earned honors. Zach Muniz was all-state, all-region and the district offensive MVP; Jeronimo Quintanilla was the district defensive MVP; Nunie Ramirez and Donte Flournoy were alldistrict; and Caleb Smith and Caleb Martinez were all-district honorable mentions. That leaves Rhodes with seniors Malachi Garcia, a 5-9 guard (AD honorable mention last year), Hunter Acosta, a 6-2 guard, 142

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Malachi Garcia

Bryan Valentin

Chris Jackson

and Bryan Valentin, a 6-3 post, as the returning core for this year’s team. There are seven seniors and five juniors on this year’s squad. “We have a few kids that can shoot the ball,” Rhodes said. “Our quickness will be an asset on the defensive side.” However, he cited several concerns. “Our lack of varsity game experience will be a factor. This will be the first time for the majority of our kids to play at this level,” Rhodes said. “Our district returns most of their starters from last year’s squads. Couple that with our lack of size, and we will have to be detail-oriented to survive in this tough district.” Those concerns tie directly into his keys for success this season. “We will have to defend and rebound relentlessly to compete in this league,” he said. “We have to learn to pass up good shots for great shots. Limiting our live-ball turnovers and scoring off (Continued on page 144) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 30-31 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Brownfield Schedule

Opponent Odessa Permian Monterey Estacado Snyder Kermit Gene Messer Tournament Lamesa Tournament Lovington Odessa High Andrews Shoot Out Perryton Slaton Denver City Monahans Caprock Tournament Snyder Shoot Out Snyder Roosevelt Littlefield Shallowater Abernathy Idalou Slaton Denver City Roosevelt Littlefield Shallowater Abernathy Idalou Slaton Denver City

Place B G There X Here X Here X There X There X Frenship X There X Here X Here X There X X WT Box X Here X There X Here X Lubbock X There X There X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X There X

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our defense will all be critical if we are to find ourselves in the top four of this very strong district.” Rhodes is beginning his fourth season at Brownfield. He has 19 years of head coaching experience, having previously coached at Highland Park for five years and Bushland for 11. He owns a 334226 overall boys coaching record for a .596 winning percentage. Rhodes is a graduate of Rockwall High School and Texas Tech University. The Cubs’ opener will be Nov. 26 at Snyder. They’ll play in Frenship’s Gene Messer, Andrews and Snyder shootouts. District 2-3A play begins Jan. 3. Name Hunter Acosta Malichi Garcia Chris Jackson Jeremiah Mendez Mando Mojica Bryan Valentin Rocky Vicencio Deion Blackwell Pete Marroquin Jaden Martinez Nikko Vela Richard Piedra

Brownfield Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-2 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 6-3 P Sr. 6-3 P Sr. 5-9 G Jr. 6-2 F Jr. 6-1 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-10 F Jr.

Jeremiah Mendez

Rocky Vicencio

Mando Mojica

Pete Marroquin

Nikko Vela

Coach: Steve Rhodes Asst. Coaches: Tate Rhodes, Matthew McHugh, Nate Ginsler 2018-2019 record: 22-9, 10-4 School phone: 637-4523

Brownfield Girls

Lady Cubs to feature sophomores The Lady Cubs started to turn the corner last year. With a group of scintillating sophomores ready to sizzle, Brownfield may get all the way back soon. In Michelle Wyatt’s first year as coach, the Lady Cubs were 0-9 in district play and winless in 22 starts overall. Last year, they improved to 3-11 in District 2-3A (for sixth place) and 12-16 overall. “We got off to a successful start and then were hit with injuries and illnesses and never could get everyone back healthy,” Wyatt said. Six seniors were on last year’s roster. Two will be missed the most. “Emma Powell and Dayna Romero had four years of varsity experience and were great leaders,” Wyatt said. Wyatt has six sophomores and three seniors on her roster this season. Two of the sophs are returning starters. Lindsey Herrera, a 5-1 guard, averaged. 8 points and 5 assists last season as a freshman, earning district newcomer of the year honors. Gabby Fields, a 5-5 guard, pumped in 17 points, grabbed 3 rebounds and dished out 3 assists per game last year. Wyatt nominates Herrera and Fields as all-state candidates. The sophomore talent doesn’t stop there. 144

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Lindsey Herrera

Gabrielle Fields

Dabria Blackwell

Dabria Blackwell, a 5-2 guard, and the Johnson twins — Tia and Deja, both 5-10 posts — are additional players to watch, according to Wyatt. Then there’s Ashley Ramirez, a 5-5 guard (4 ppg), who lettered last year. Morgan Silva, a 5-6 senior guard (4 ppg), also lettered. “We have several players who play a lot of basketball in the summer and have a high basketball IQ,” Wyatt said. “We’re young, but our kids work extremely hard and are committed to doing whatever it takes to be successful.” That youth and the health of her players are her chief concerns. (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

Staying healthy is one of Wyatt’s keys for success this season. “We have a tough non-district schedule, which should prepare us for a very tough district,” she said. “We need our newcomers to adjust to the physical play of varsity basketball. Our kids work extremely hard, and we are excited to watch their development and becoming a successful team.” Wyatt was an all-state basketball player at Spur High School, then was on Wayland Baptist University’s Flying Queens’ national runner-up team of 1992. She spent 16 years at South Plains College, the last 10 as the women’s head coach. Her Lady Texans compiled a 205-95 record and experienced only two losing seasons. In 2015, Wyatt became an assistant to 800-game winner Clay Stout at Brownfield. When Stout stepped down, she took over for the 2017-18 season. The Lady Cats will debut at Odessa Permian Nov. 12. They’ll open at home Nov. 22 against Lubbock Monterey. Brownfield will take part in the Lamesa, Andrews and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District play begins Dec. 17. Name Morgan Silva Nautica Marroquin Gabby Medina Lindsey Herrera Gabby Fields Dabria Blackwell Tia Johnson

Brownfield Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 5-7 P Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-1 G Soph. 5-5 G Soph. 5-2 G Soph. 5-10 P Soph.

Deja Johnson

Tia Johnson

Ashley Ramirez

Morgan Silva

Nautica Marroquin

Gabby Medina

Deja Johnson Ashley Ramirez

5-10 5-5

P G

Soph. Soph.

Coach: Michelle Wyatt Asst. Coaches: Shea Myatt, Jacei Barrera, Kylee Valenzuela 2018-2019 record: 12-16, 3-11 School phone: 637-4523 Players to watch: Gabby Fields, Lindsey Herrera, Dabria Blackwell, Tia Johnson, Deja Johnson

Idalou Boys

Injuries derailed Wildcats The Wildcats began last season on an optimistic note. With four returning starters, Idalou’s prospects looked bright for a stellar season. It didn’t happen. The injury-plagued Wildcats struggled to an 8-19 season. They missed the playoffs, winding up seventh in District 2-3A with a 3-11 record. “Unfortunately, last year was one of those Jackson Stanton years where we just couldn’t stay healthy. We had several key players miss valuable time throughout the season and never could get over the hump,” Coach Dustin Schulte said. “The positive of that is that it allowed us to bring up quite a few younger guys to play valuable minutes and roles at a varsity level. I felt we competed hard each game and continued to get better all the way to the last week of the season.” Idalou had seven seniors on last year’s roster. The two key departures were McKade Merrell, a two-time all-district player, and Jeremiah Lorimer, honorable mention all-district. The Wildcats begin this season with four returning starters again, plus three other letter winners. Jackson Stanton, a 6-0 junior guard, averaged 10 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists and was all-district honorable mention 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Xzavier Tarin

Tucker Kidd

Dylan Lopez

last year. The other returning starters are 5-11 senior guard Xzavier Tarin (8 ppg, 3 rpg), 6-1 senior forward Tucker Kidd (5 ppg, 4 rpg) and 5-10 senior guard Dylan Lopez (5 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg). That quartet represents 28 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Schulte considers Stanton, Tarin and Kidd as outstanding players to watch. Three other letter winners — 6-1 senior forward Josh Morales (3 ppg, 5 rpg), 5-8 junior guard Ryan Lozano (3 ppg, 3 rpg) and 6-2 junior post Cooper Hill (2 ppg, 2 rpg) — add depth. Schulte tabs guard play and speed as the Wildcats’ strengths. He is concerned about the overall lack of size. (Continued on page 147)

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“We have seven guys returning from last year’s team that played significant minutes and roles. We will be small but feel our speed and quickness will help us compete at a high level,” Schulte said. “This is a group that loves to compete and is hungry to have a great year. If we can just improve week in and week out, I feel this group will be ready to compete late in the season against anyone.” Schulte was the Class 1A player of the year and played on two state championship teams at Nazareth High School. The Texas Tech University graduate is beginning his sixth year at Idalou and is looking for his first winning season. That campaign will commence Nov. 19 when the Wildcats entertain New Home. Idalou will play in the Nazareth, Floydada and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District 2-3A play for the boys begins Jan. 3.

Josh Morales

Cooper Hill Ryan Lozano

Name Jackson Stanton Xzavier Tarin Tucker Kidd Dylan Lopez Josh Morales Ryan Lozano Cooper Hill Burl Kerr Byron Goen Phoenix Fabila

Idalou Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 G Jr. 5-11 G Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 6-2 P Jr. 6-5 P Sr. 6-2 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr.

Coach: Dustin Schulte Asst. Coaches: Luke Buckner, Thomas Brockman 2018-2019 record: 8-19, 3-11 School phone: 892-1900 Players to watch: Jackson Stanton, Xzaver Tarin, Tucker Kidd

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Idalou Girls

Lady Cats take several steps forward The Lady Cats took it one step further in the 2018-19 season. Well, make that several steps. Idalou won a school-record 31 games, one better than the previous season. The Lady Cats captured 14 victories in district play, one better than the year before. And they reached the regional finals, one rung better than the regional semifinal showing the previous season. So it all added up to a 31-6 overall mark, a perfect 14-0 District 2-3A championship and an impressive run in the playoffs. Idalou defeated Muleshoe 63-29 in bidistrict, Sonora 66-27 in the area round, Bushland 39-34 in the regional quarterfinals and Jim Ned 41-36 in the regional semifinals. Wall ended the Lady Cats’ season 52-36 in the regional finals. “Ranked in the top five of 3A the entire season,” Coach Tyler Helms said. “Undefeated finish in a very competitive district. Fourth regional tournament in the last five years.” If Helms’ team has another similar season, he’ll move into the 300 Club. He’s coached both boys and girls teams, all at Idalou. Combined, his teams have won 286 and lost 69, an .806 winning percentage. His 2011 Wildcats won the Class 2A state championship. The Floydada High School graduate began his coaching career at his alma mater as an assistant boys coach.

Shaylee Stovall

Taylor Houston

Emmy Craig

Helms, a Texas Tech grad, is beginning his sixth season as the Lady Cats coach and his 11th season at Idalou. He’ll be missing Ashlyn Shelley, Libby Craig and Tanay Williams from last year’s senior class, but he has three starters, including the district’s offensive and defensive standouts, back. Shaylee Stovall, a 5-7 senior guard, averaged 15.6 points and 3.1 assists last season. She was TABC all-state and all-region, TGCA all-state and the district offensive MVP. Taylor Houston, a 5-11 sophomore forward, contributed 8.9 points and 8.1 rebounds per game in earning TABC all-region and district defensive MVP honors. (Continued on next page)

Idalou Girls Name Shaylee Stovall Taylor Houston Emmy Craig Madelyn Merrell Peyton Winn Bo Heard Reagan Dennis Logan Heard

Ht. Pos. Class 5-7 G Sr. 5-11 F Soph. 5-8 G Jr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-8 G Soph. 5-10 G/F Fr.

Coach: Tyler Helms Asst. Coaches: Dana Fox, Jessica Hernandez, Leslie Stark, Bridgette Wall 2018-2019 record: 31-6, 14-0 School phone: 892-1900 Players to watch: Shaylee Stovall, Taylor Houston, Emmy Craig, Madelyn Merrell

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Emmy Craig, a 5-8 junior guard, also started last season. Another player to watch is letter winner Madelyn Merrell, a 5-10 senior forward, according to Helms. Peyton Winn, a 5-10 senior forward, and Bo Heard, a 5-8 junior guard, round out a six-player letter winner group. Helms lists toughness, athleticism and tradition as the Lady Cats’ strengths, What are the keys for success this season? “Use our deep playoff runs over the last several seasons to continue momentum in district and in the playoffs,” Helms said. His Lady Cats will open their season Nov. 9, playing Argyle at Seymour. Idalou will participate in the Frenship, Nazareth and Fort Worth Whataburger tournaments. The District 2-3A opener is Dec. 17.

Idalou Super Boosters Have a Great Season!—Keith & Michelle Craig Go Mean Green!—John & Margaret Shipley Go Cats & Lady Cats!—Russ & Kathy Reagan Go Cats!—Lance & Tondya Bownds Tom and Shannon Gregory and Family Good Luck Wildcats!—On Pointe Dance Studio Play your heart out Tucker!—Love, Mom, RN, Alice & Carson Go Wildcats!—H&H Trailer Sales Go Nevaeh!—Love, Papa & Nancy Good Luck Nevaeh!—Amp Solar Squad, Love Mom & Dad

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Madelyn Merrell

Bo Heard Peyton Winn

DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 27-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Idalou Schedule

Opponent Cooper New Home Frenship Tournament Greenwood Frenship Canyon Nazareth Tournament Levelland Floydada Tournament Shallowater Muleshoe Abernathy Floydada Caprock Tournament Whataburger Tournament Littlefield Slaton Denver City Roosevelt Brownfield Shallowater Abernathy Littlefield Slaton Denver City Roosevelt Brownfield Shallowater Abernathy

Place B G Here X Here X X There X Here X Here X There X X There X X There X X There X There X Here X Here X Here X Lubbock X Fort Worth X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X Here X erh

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Littlefield Boys

Wildcats return all five starters With all five starters and five other letter winners returning from last year’s 18-12 team, the Wildcats figure to be a force in District 2-3A this season. Littlefield finished fourth in the district last season with a 7-7 league mark, then lost its bidistrict game to Spearman 51-34. But there were no seniors on last year’s roster. The five returning starters represent 45 Jayden Longoria points a game based upon last year’s scoring statistics. Leading the way are all-district returnees Jayden Longoria and Tyree Jones. Longoria, a 6-3 senior forward, averaged 18 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists last season. Jones, a 6-5 junior forward, contributed 12 ppg, 7 rpg, 2 apg. The other three returning starters are 6-1 senior guard Jonathan Davis (6 ppg, 4 rpg, 3 apg), 5-9 senior guard Andrew Valdez (6 ppg, 3 rpg, 4 apg) and 5-6 junior guard Jeremiah Salazar (3 ppg, 4 apg). In addition, Coach Rob Ogle mentions 5-9 senior guards Daniel Stinson and Joseph Trevino (3 ppg, 2 rpg) as other outstanding players to watch. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Tyree Jones

Andrew Valdez

Jeremiah Salazar

Ogle lists experience, size and depth as the Wildcats’ strengths. He is concerned about the team chemistry because of the addition of a couple players to the returning squad. “We must be better outside shooters and more aggressive/ stronger defensively,” he said regarding the keys for a successful season. Ogle has had plenty of success in his 21-year high school coaching career, which has featured stops at seven schools: Crowell, Clyde, Brownfield, Breckenridge, Denver City, Pampa and Littlefield. He celebrated his 400th coaching victory last season and sports (Continued on next page)

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a 406-202 career boys coaching record as he begins his third year at Littlefield. That’s a .668 winning percentage. Ogle is a graduate of Ballinger High School and Angelo State University. The Wildcats will begin their season Nov. 19 at Friona. The home opener is Nov. 22 vs. Dumas. Littlefield will play in the Denver City and Farwell tournaments and its own Wildcat Classic. District 2-3A play begins Jan. 3.

DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24

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Littlefield Schedule

Opponent Estacado Ropes Friona Dumas Andrews Tahoka Monahans Post Denver City Tournament Lamesa Farwell Tournament Abernathy Lubbock Roosevelt Portales, New Mexico Wildcat Classic Idalou Brownfield Slaton Shallowater Denver City Abernathy Roosevelt

Place B G There X Here X There X X Here X There X There X Here X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X Here X There X Lubbock X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X

Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Idalou Brownfield Slaton Shallowater Denver City Abernathy Roosevelt

There Here There Here There There Here

X X X X X X X

X X X X X

Go Wildcats! Name Juan Rios Daniel Stinson Jeremiah Salazar Jonathan Davis Andrew Valdez Joseph Trevino Tyler Jones Tyree Jones Jayden Longoria Chris Brown Bradlinn Asberry

Littlefield Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 G Jr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-6 G Jr. 6-1 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-3 F Sr. 6-5 F Jr. 6-3 F Sr. 6-3 F Jr. 6-1 F Sr.

Coach: Rob Ogle Asst. Coaches: Nathan McKinnon, Tyler Goodwin 2018-2019 record: 18-12, 7-7 School phone: 385-4150 Players to watch: Daniel Stinson, Jeremiah Salazar, Jonathan Davis, Andrew Valdez, Joseph Trevino

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Littlefield Girls

Coach sees improvement in Lady Cats The record didn’t show it, but Coach Darchelle “Teddy” Duncan thought her second Littlefield team made some improvements over her first. Her first team went 7-20 overall and 3-14 in district play. The Lady Cats were 7-19 overall and 2-10 in District 2-3A, finishing eighth, last season. “Last year was a great learning and building year. We had several return from the previous year. The girls adjusted and adapted to a new program and really learned a lot from the previous season,” Duncan said. “Our wins and losses might not have shown the growth of the team, but as a unit, we were able to get better.” Six seniors were listed on last year’s Littlefield roster. So they’re gone. However, Duncan has six seniors again this year and four returning starters. Two other Lady Cats saw considerable varsity action. The prize performer may be Kaitlyn Edgemon, a 5-10 senior forward. She is the younger sister of former Lady Cat standout Kaylee Edgemon, who graduated three years ago. Kaylee Edgemon now is playing for Wayland Baptist University. Duncan considers the younger Edgemon an all-state candidate. She and 5-9 sophomore forward Ashtyn Parker are cousins. The four returning starters are 5-2 senior guard Bailey Jones, 5-0 senior guard Daniella Solis, 5-1 junior guard Geya Garza and 5-5 sophomore guard Brookelyn Gau. Nautica Espinoza, a 5-9 senior forward, and Sydni Miller, a 5-1 senior guard, also return from last year. “The depth of this year’s team will be a very good component. We are in a very tough district, and having a versatile team with good depth will play a big role in the team’s success in district play,” Duncan said. “I also feel that we have a couple of different players that will be able to play both inside and out, which will possibly create match-up issues.” Her main concern is that the Lady Cats commit to defense the entire game. She diagnosed the keys for success this season as remaining healthy, being in good shape and being able to adjust and to overcome adversity on the court. Duncan — her maiden name was Darchelle “Teddy” Griffin — played on Seagraves’ 2005 Class 1A state and Texas Cup champions. Then she played four years at Texas Tech University. Her older sister, Darrice Griffin, preceded her at Tech. Their mother, Tami Wilson, played on Coach Marsha Sharp’s Lady Red Raiders from 1990 to 1992 and later joined Sharp’s staff as an assistant. Duncan began her coaching career at her high school alma mater, Seagraves, for six years before moving to Littlefield. The Lady Cats will open their season Nov. 9 at Lubbock Estacado, then entertain Ropes Nov. 12 in the home opener. They’ll participate in the Denver City and Farwell tournaments and their own Wildcat Classic. District 2-3A play begins Dec. 17. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Kaitlyn Edgemon

Bailey Jones

Daniella Solis

Nautica Espinoza

Sydni Miller

Rachel Robinson

Name Bailey Jones Kaitlyn Edgemon Nautica Espinoza Daniella Solis Sydni Miller Rachel Robinson Geya Garza Brookelyn Gau Ashtyn Parker Madison McNeese

Littlefield Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-2 G Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-9 F Sr. 5-0 G Sr. 5-1 G Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 5-1 G Jr. 5-5 G Soph. 5-9 F Soph. 5-8 G Fr.

Coach: Darchelle Duncan Asst. Coaches: Keith Logan, Emily Castillo, Ashley Dendy 2018-2019 record: 2-10 School phone: 385-4150 Player to watch: Kaitlyn Edgemon

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Shallowater Boys

Mustangs keep winning beat going The Mustangs followed up on a super 2017-18 season with another great campaign last season. Coming off a 33-3 run the previous season, Shallowater rolled to a 25-5 showing. And for the second straight season, the Mustangs were a perfect 14-0 in District 2-3A as they took their second title in a row. After losing back-to-back games early in the season, the Mustangs reeled off 16 straight victories. In the playoffs, Shallowater defeated Canadian 71-45 in bidistrict and Alpine 76-35 in the area round. Spearman stopped the Mustangs 51-48 in the regional quarterfinals. The previous year, Shallowater had reached the regional semifinals. “We had a good season with some great kids that we will miss,” Coach Jay Lusk said. “I’m ready to see what kids step up and contribute this season.” All-state Josh Servantez and all-district Rodie Fuqua will be missed the most. However, Lusk has plenty of potential contributors this season with two returning starters, three other Mustang letter winners and a key transfer. Start with Jalen Brattain, a 6-8 senior forward, who averaged 21 points and 14 rebounds playing for Seminole last season. Seminole went 22-11 and reached the Class 4A area round. Brat-

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Jalen Brattain

Grant Johnston

Mason Eaker

tain earned all-state recognition last year. Lusk endorses Brattain to repeat that honor this year. Brattain is the brother of Bree Brattain, a sophomore on Shallowater’s girls team. Although he wasn’t a full-time starter, 5-8 junior guard Caden Gillespie earned all-district distinction on the basis of 8 points and 4 assists per game production. So that brings us to the two returning starters. Hunter Gossett, a 5-11 senior guard, was all-district last season. Tyler McCall, a 6-2 senior forward, was AD honorable mention. (Continued on page 156)

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The other returning letter winners are 6-2 senior forward Reese Cunningham, 5-9 senior guard Landry McCrady and 6-4 senior post Grant Johnson. The Mustangs have eight seniors and three juniors on their roster. That experience and the senior leadership are the Mustangs’ strengths, according to Lusk. He detailed the keys for success this season as “working together as a team and stepping up in critical moments.” Lusk has been quite successful as a coach at his high school alma mater. The Texas Tech University graduate is beginning his eighth season at Shallowater with a 162-45 boys coaching record, all with the Mustangs. That’s a .783 winning percentage. His teams have reached the playoffs all seven years, and his last two teams have gone 58-8.

Name Jalen Brattain Hunter Gossett Tyler McCall Reese Cunningham Landry McCrady Grant Johnston Kreed Kotara Dylan Kelly Mason Eaker Caleb Batson Caden Gillespie

Shallowater Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-8 F Sr. 5-11 G Sr. 6-2 F Sr. 6-2 F Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-4 P Sr. 5-11 G Sr. 5-11 G Sr. 6-2 G Jr. 6-0 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr.

Coach: Jay Lusk 2018-2019 record: 25-5, 14-0 School phone: 832-4531 Players to watch: Jalen Brattain, Caden Gillespie, Hunter Gossett, Tyler McCall

Shallowater Super Boosters Good Luck for a great season Fillies! Go Tynli!—Mom Good Luck Fillies! We love you Taylor!— Love, Moma, Maci & Alex We wish the Mustangs and Fillies a Great Season!—The Williams Family

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Shallowater Girls

Darden’s Fillies had a darling season Veteran Coach Chuck Darden had some nice things to say about the Fillies’ 2018-19 season. “Just had a great season. The team improved every week,” he said. “The kids really put the team first. Great kids!” His Fillies were 28-4 overall and 12-2 in District 2-3A, finishing second. They won the Shallowater Shootout and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. In the playoffs, Shallowater defeated Spearman 50-32 in bidistrict and Tornillo 55-29 in the area game before bowing to Wall 47-43 in the regional quarterfinals. Twenty-plus win seasons are commonplace for Darden’s teams. He’s spent his entire 28-year coaching career at Shallowater. His Fillies have won 956 and lost 282, a winning percentage of .772. Darden, a graduate of Lubbock Coronado High School and Texas Tech University, trails only Joe Lombard of Canyon (1,287 girls, 1,348 overall) as the winningest active coach in the PPB area. Three seniors — Braylie Gray, Stormie Williams and Maddie Blackburn — on last year’s Shallowater roster have departed. Gray was first-team all-district, and Williams was the district’s defensive MVP. But Darden has three starters and four other letter winners back. Leading the way is 5-7 junior Tynli Harris, who averaged 14.5 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2 assists last season in earning TABC

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Tynli Harris

Taylor Moravcik

Jordyn Aragon

and TGCA all-state, TABC all-region and district offensive MVP honors. Taylor Moravcik, a 5-9 junior forward (7.8 ppg, 4.2 rpg), and Jordyn Aragon, a 5-9 senior forward (6.7 ppg, 3.2 rpg), were all-district. Those three returning starters represent 29 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Letter winners Jenna Willer, a 5-4 sophomore guard (6 ppg, 2.2 apg), and Madison Batten, a 5-9 senior forward (3.2 ppg), also earned honors last year. Willer was the district newcomer of the year; Batten was honorable mention all-district. Bree Brattain, a 5-8 sophomore guard transfer from Seminole, (Continued on next page)

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is the sister of senior Jalen Brattain on the boys team. Darden describes the Fillies’ strengths as experience and great defensive pressure. “Also, our perimeter shooting should be improved,” he said. He is concerned about his team’s size. That ties in with one of his keys for success this season. “(We) must play big inside with a smaller lineup,” Darden said. “But first and always be a team that does not care who gets the glory.” Looking toward the 2019-20 season, he predicted, “District 2-3A will be extremely difficult.”

Name Tynli Harris Jenna Willer Zoe Barnes Madison Batten Jordyn Aragon Tiffany Davis Taylor Moravcik Bree Brattain

Shallowater Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-7 G Jr. 5-4 G Soph. 5-8 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-9 F Sr. 5-9 F Sr. 5-9 F Jr. 5-8 G Soph.

Jenna Willer

Bree Brattain

Madison Batten

Zoe Barnes

Tiffany Davis

Coach: Chuck Darden Asst. Coaches: T’Linda Taylor, Jay Parker, Callie Noland, Amy Mangum, Sue Fuentes, Shawna Monreal 2018-2019 record: 28-4, 12-2 School phone: 832-4535, ext. 2244

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20

Shallowater Schedule

Opponent Coronado Lubbock Titans Lubbock High Seminole Trinity Christian Ralls LCHS Shallowater Shootout Nazareth Tournament Andrews Andrews Tournament Idalou Dalhart Slaton

Place B G Here X Here X X There X There X There X Here X X Here X X There X There X Here X X There X X Here X There X There X

Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Caprock Tournament Denver City Roosevelt Brownfield Littlefield Abernathy Idalou Slaton Denver City Roosevelt Brownfield Littlefield Abernathy Idalou Slaton

Lubbock Here There Here Here There There Here There Here There There Here Here There

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Slaton Boys

Tigers taking aim at playoffs The Tigers haven’t made the playoffs in the first three years of Coach Stacy Godfrey’s regime. But this could be the year. With three starters and three other letter winners back, Slaton may have the weapons to make some noise this season. Last year, the Tigers went 12-15 overall and 4-10 in District 2-3A. “Once again, the district was very competitive from week to week,” Godfrey said. Tashawn Tipton, all-district honorable mention, was the key departure from last year’s squad. The three returning starters are Quevon McDaniel, Hudson Sackett and Mike Solis. McDaniel, a senior point guard, averaged 11 points, 2.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists in earning all-district recognition last season. Junior guard Sackett chipped in with 9.5 ppg, 3.5 apg and was all-district honorable mention. Senior forward Solis showed 8 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg credentials last season. All three are outstanding players to watch, according to Godfrey. Those three represent 28.5 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Senior forward Mario Sanchez (4 ppg, 3.5 rpg), junior forward Camryn Nalley (4 ppg, 4 rpg) and senior guard Kevondrick Gober (2.3 ppg, 2.2 apg) also lettered last year. Godfrey views that experience and his guards’ speed and quickness as the Tigers’ strengths. He’s concerned about the lack of size.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Quevon McDaniel

Hudson Sackett

Mario Sanchez

Mike Solis

Kevondrick Gober

“With no big men, our guards will have to play smart, quick and fast,” he said. Godfrey listed several keys for success this season.

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“Outworking our opponents and playing an aggressive style of full- and half-court defense with steals and forcing turnovers,” he said. “Scoring in offensive transition and limiting turnovers.” Godfrey coached at two Lubbock middle schools and Lubbock Estacado before coming to Slaton. His three-year coaching record with the Tigers is 39-49. Slaton’s opener will be Nov. 19 at home versus Andrews. The Tigers will play in Wichita Falls’ Fantasy of Lights Tournament, plus the Floydada and Lubbock Caprock tourneys. District 2-3A play begins Jan. 3. Slaton Boys Name Quevon McDaniel Kevondrick Gober Hudson Sackett Mike Solis Evan Cearley Mario Sanchez Camryn Nalley Alizae Mandez Breaden Gibbs Treven Baker Aiden Martinez Ivan Martinez

Pos. Class G Sr. G Sr. G Jr. F Sr. F Sr. F Sr. F Jr. G Jr. G Soph. G Soph. G Soph. F Sr.

Coach: Stacy Godfrey Asst. Coaches: Pat Potts, Jace Chancellor 2018-2019 record: 12-15, 4-10 School phone: 828-2123 Players to watch: Quevon McDaniel, Mike Solis, Hudson Sackett

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Slaton Girls

Tigerettes keep it all in family For the Tigerettes, it’s a family affair. Coach Tiffany Potts’ daughter, Payton Potts, is a 5-5 sophomore guard on the team. Kamryn Gibbs, a 5-5 senior guard, is the niece of longtime Tigerette Coach Chris Kennedy (19 seasons as coach and then the school principal). And nine Tigerettes are daughters of Slaton High School graduates. Lots of strong Slaton ties. TK Robinson Coach Potts, whose maiden name was Tiffany Turney, was a standout basketball player at Slaton. She played on the 1996 team that was the state runner-up. She was the district MVP and all-region as a senior. She was an All-American player at Hardin-Simmons University in 2000 and played on teams that reached the NCAA Division III Sweet Sixteen four straight years. Potts is beginning her third season at Slaton and 11th overall as a head coach. She was an assistant at Slaton and Rankin then head coach at Rankin before returning to her high school alma mater. She owns a 217-95 girls coaching record. Her two Slaton teams have won 38 and lost 26. Her Tigerettes were 17-15 last season. They finished fifth in District 2-3A with a 4-10 record. “Last season was injury-plagued for a young team, losing three

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Mary Jo Parker

Zanady Coronado

players to season-ending injuries,” Potts said. “Many young kids stepped up and filled roles that were out of position for us and kept us competitive in a tough district.” Five seniors — Addisyn Sackett, Jasynda Torres, Destanie Moreno, Grace Parker and Aryanna Zapata — have departed from that team. Potts has three returning starters, including all-district TK Robinson, a first-team all-district pick last year. Gibbs and Mary Jo Parker, a 5-9 junior guard, also started last season. Potts regards Gibbs and Parker as all-state material. Robinson, 5-5 senior guard Zanady Coronado, 5-6 senior guard Jazmyn Jackson and 5-10 junior post Andrea Moreno are (Continued on next page)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jazmyn Jackson

Andrea Moreno

Kayli McCord

Kaylee Franklin

Justyne Zapata

Payton Potts

(Continued from previous page)

additional outstanding players to watch, according to Potts. All are letter winners, along with 5-7 senior guard Kayli McCord. Payton Potts missed all of last season with an ACL injury. Coach Potts lists overall team speed, athleticism, length and depth as the Tigerettes’ strengths. She is concerned about the lack of size. She analyzes the keys for success this season as “limiting turnovers, utilizing our team’s athleticism and speed on the defensive end to create offense, being disciplined and making good decisions with the basketball.”

Slaton Super Boosters Go Tigers and Tigerettes! We are rooting for you!—Mr. Johnson, Neeley, Jentry, and Knox Go Jazmyn Jackson! Put your all in you Senior Year—Brad & Denise Rudd

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Proudly supporting Slaton Tigers and Tigerettes! #Differencemakers #Buildingonlegacy—T.J. & Julee Broscoff Go Kaylee and the Tigerettes!—The McDonald Family Dedication + Motivation = Success—The Creager Family Go Tigerettes! Whip, Beat & Mince your rivals! Fry them to a golden crisp! Go Tigerettes!—Mrs. Pollack We wish our Slaton Tigers and Tigerettes the best of luck!—The Kinch & Arrington Family Good Luck Nata! We are so proud of you and excited to watch you play this year.— Love, Matt, Jackie, Xander & Skyer

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 25 Nov. 29-30 Dec. 3 Dec. 10 Dec. 13 Dec. 13-15 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 21 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Slaton Schedule

Opponent Patton Springs Lockney Andrews Spur Tournament Valley Fantasy of Light Tournament New Deal Post Sundown Floydada Tournament Tulia Brownfield Shallowater Estacado Caprock Tournament Abernathy Idalou Littlefield Denver City Roosevelt Brownfield Shallowater Abernathy Idalou Littlefield Denver City Roosevelt Brownfield Shallowater

Place B G Here X There X Here X X There X There X X Wichita Falls X X Here X X Here X X There X There X Here X There X Here X There X Lubbock X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X Here X

We love you Madi-Lynne!—Love, B & Grandpa Good luck Tigerettes! We love you MadiLynne!—Love Mom & Dad We love you Andrea and J! Good Luck!— Mom & Dad Good Luck Tigerettes! We love you KK!— Mom, Karli, Kolbi, Sabraun, Brixton, Bralon, Kelci & Paisley We wish the Tigers and Tigerettes a great basketball season!—Pretty Please Kaylee, 1515 S. 9th Love you Justyn! Go Tigerettes! Go Tigerettes, good luck this year!—Greg & Lacy Schilling Slaton Tigerettes are AWESOME!—Mr. Schneider Go Tigerettes!—Love, Emerie & Landrie Love my Tigerettes!—Martha Turney Behind you all the way!—The Jeffcoats Have a good season Felecity!—Love you Good luck Tigers and Tigerettes!—Mario Aguirre Good luck Tigerettes!—Slay Family Y’all don’t need luck, Y’all got skills!-The Kidds Go Tigers!—The Florez Family Future Tigers and Tigerettes are rooting for you!—In My Hands Learning Center, Inc. Play your heart out! We love you Ileannah!— The Linarez Family 164

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Name Kamryn Gibbs TK Robinson Zanady Coronado Jazmyn Jackson Kaylee Franklin Kayli McCord Mary Jo Parker Andrea Moreno Justyne Zapata Payton Potts

Slaton Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-5 G Sr. 5-7 F Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-7 F Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-10 P Jr. 5-5 G Jr. 5-5 G Soph.

Coach: Tiffany Potts Asst. Coaches: Krysa Villegas, Amanda Langston, Chase Thompson, Marla Harbin 2018-2019 record: 17-15, 4-10 School phone: 828-5833 Players to watch: Kamryn Gibbs, TK Robinson, Zanady Coronado, Jazmyn Jackson, Mary Jo Parker, Andrea Moreno

Play your heart out! We love you Jaclyn!— Love, Nana & Family Good luck Andrea and Jayleigh Moreno! May all the Tigerettes have a wonderful season! Let’s Go MYA!—The Ramos Family Good luck Tigers! Do Great!—Claborn Family Work hard Mercedes! Go, Fight, Win Adriana!—The Martinez Family Good luck Tigerettes!—Mr. Villanueva & Oliver Phillippians 4:13 (You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you) Love, Mom Go Makayla!—The Cisneros Family Let’s Go Tigerettes!—Stacy & Juan Muniz Go Tigerettes!—The Castillo Family Get after it Gabbie!—Marla Harbin Go KK!—The Blake Boyd Family Good Luck Madi-Lynne!—Love Grandma

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Denver City Boys

Mustangs have their goal set The Mustangs came close to making the playoffs last year. With two starters and eight other letter winners returning, Denver City hopes to be playing in the post-season this year. The Mustangs finished 17-15 overall last season, and they won the Denver City Tamale Shootout. But their 5-9 league record left them in fifth place in District 2-3A. “Last season, plagued by injuries and competing in a very tough 3A district, we were able to steal some wins at home and were one game away from the playoffs,” Coach Abraham Garcia said. Josh Mills, first-team all-district, and Nathaniel Cruz, AD honorable mention, were the key departures from that team. Starters Elias Yanez and Branden Lewis return. Yanez, a 5-10 senior guard, averaged 8.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists last season. Lewis, a 6-1 senior forward, contributed 2.3 ppg and 8.6 rpg. Some of the players who came off the bench last season had even more impressive statistics. For instance, 5-7 senior guard Nick Rodriguez (12.2 ppg, 3.2 apg) and 6-0 junior guard Jaxon Maxwell (9.6 ppg, 4.2 rpg) are back. Garcia picks those four, plus 6-3 senior post Joseph Ramirez, as outstanding players to watch. The Mustangs have seven seniors on their roster, including 6-1 forward Tate Maxwell, who is the older brother of Jaxon Maxwell. The only sophomore is 6-2 post Enrique Banuelas, who saw some action (2.1 ppg, 4.3 rpg) last year. “We will have an experienced group of boys coming back this year,” Garcia said. He is concerned about a lack of height. What are his keys for success this season? “If we can stay healthy and really take advantage of mistakes 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Elias Yanez

Branden Lewis

Enrique Banuelas

Nick Rodriguez

Jacob Freeman

we can force the other teams into making,” he said. Garcia is a graduate of Plains High School and Texas Tech University. He is beginning his fourth season at Denver City, having previously coached at Kress, D’Hanis and St. Joseph Victoria. The Mustangs will open their season at home Nov. 22 against Midland Classical Academy. They’ll try to defend their title in the DC Tamale Shootout and also play in the Andrews and Littlefield tournaments. District 2-3A play begins Jan. 3. 3A

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DATE Nov. 2 Nov. 15 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Name Jayleen Villarreal Moraima Villegas Valarie Yanez Camry Spurgeon Anahi Perez Caitlynn Durham Marley Jordan Melissa Soto Abet Hurtado

Denver City Schedule

Opponent Seagraves Kermit Fort Stockton Levelland Midland Classical Andrews Midland Classical Levelland Lubbock Titans Seagraves Tamale Shootout Muleshoe Andrews Tournament Roosevelt Fort Stockton Brownfield Littlefield Tournament Shallowater Abernathy Idalou Slaton Littlefield Roosevelt Brownfield Shallowater Abernathy Idalou Slaton Littlefield Roosevelt Brownfield

Denver City Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-8 F Jr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-6 F Sr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-10 P Jr. 5-9 P Jr. 5-5 F Jr.

Coach: Chief Bridgforth Asst. Coach: Randi Demel 2018-2019 record: 25-7, 10-4 School phone: 592-5958 Players to watch: Jayleen Villarreal, Moraima Villegas, Valarie Yanez

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Place B G There X There X Here X There X There X Here X There X There X Here X X Here X X TBA X X There X X There X X There X There X Here X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X Here X

Name Jacob Freeman Nick Rodriguez Elias Yanez Joseph Ramirez Branden Lewis Jaxon Maxwell Tate Maxwell Ferny Vega Andres Ortega Enrique Banuelas

Denver City Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 6-3 P Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 6-0 G Jr. 6-1 F Sr. 6-1 G Sr. 6-1 F Jr. 6-2 P Soph.

Coach: Abraham Garcia Asst. Coaches: Brian Lewis, Bryce Green 2018-2019 record: 17-15, 5-9 School phone: 592-5901 Players to watch: Jacob Freeman, Nick Rodriguez, Elias Yanez, Joseph Ramirez, Jaxon Maxwell

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Joseph Ramirez

Tate Maxwell

Ferny Vega

Andres Ortega

Aiden Wells

Anthony Anderson

Denver City Girls

Fillies looking for fulfillment The Fillies had a fine season last year even though it was cut short by a close loss. The Fillies won their own Denver City Tamale Shootout and the Littlefield Tournament. Denver City went 10-4 in District 2-3A and finished third. In bidistrict, the Fillies dropped a 44-42 overtime decision to Canadian. That completed Denver City’s campaign at 25-7. “Coming off a state tournament appearance and the loss of three starters, there were a lot of questions surrounding that team,” Coach James “Chief” Bridgforth said. “They kept improving and had a really good year. Tough overtime loss in first round of playoffs.” Two outstanding performers have moved on from that team. Holly Hemmeline, Denver City’s all-time leading scorer and a four-year starter, is currently playing at UT-Permian Basin. She was also the district MVP and all-state last season. Haylee Villarreal, all-district and the Fillies’ leading rebounder last year, is playing softball at Weatherford College. There are six experienced players returning this season. Jayleen Villarreal, a 5-6 senior guard, averaged 6 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists in earning all-district honors last season. She is one of three returning starters, joined by 5-6 senior guard Moraima Villegas (4 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg) and 5-8 junior forward Valarie Yanez (6 ppg, 4 rpg). Those three are the Fillies’ outstanding players to watch, according to Bridgforth. The Fillies have three other letter winners: 5-4 senior guard Camry Spurgeon, 5-6 senior forward Anahi Perez and 5-4 senior

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

guard Caitlynn Durham. The six returners who “understand our culture and expectations” represent a strength, Bridgforth said. His concerns center on a lack of size and developing depth. He described the keys for success this season as “how well we play together and compete every day to get better.” Bridgforth has New Mexico roots. He was an all-state, allSouth all-star and a district MVP at Lovington High School. He graduated from Eastern New Mexico University. He returned to his high school alma mater for an 11-year stint as the Lovington boys coach. He’s beginning his third season as the Denver City girls coach. His overall boys coaching record is 178-98; his girls 55-14. Combined, that’s a 233-112 record for a .675 winning percentage. The Fillies have a Nov. 12 open date before playing at Kermit Nov. 15. They’ll participate in the DC Tamale Shootout and the Andrews and Littlefield tourneys. District 2-3A play for the girls begins Dec. 17.

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Childress Boys

Bobcats looking for an encore Wayne Parker’s first year as the Bobcats’ coach was a rousing success. And the Bobcats look primed for another big year. Childress played a tough nondistrict schedule and posted victories over Nazareth, Snyder, Eula, Bushland and Hereford last season. The Bobcats finished third in District 8-3A with a 6-4 conference mark. Coach Parker takes it from there. Devron Sims “We had a good run in the playoffs, beating No. 12 Peaster in bidistrict 77-71 and then beating three district champs after that in Cisco 64-52 (area), Jim Ned 51-46 (regional quarterfinals in two overtimes) and Spearman 54-47 (regional semifinals) before losing to No.1 state-ranked Brock 58-40 in the regional finals,” he said. “We jelled late and started playing our best basketball late.” The end result was a 25-10 season and a regional finalist. Two key players from that team have departed. Stephon Harris was the district offensive MVP, all-region and all-state. Isaiah Darter was first-team all-district and all-region. However, Parker has three starters and four other letter winners back. Devron Sims, a 5-11 junior guard, averaged 10 points and 3

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Matthew Cochran

JaMarcus Hampton

Trent Mayden

rebounds and was an all-district honorable mention last season. Parker nominates Sims as an all-state candidate this season. Matthew Cochran, a 5-10 senior guard, knocked in 10 points and grabbed 3 rebounds per game in earning second-team alldistrict recognition. The third returning starter is 5-10 senior guard JaMarcus Hampton (7 ppg, 2 rpg, 3 assists per game), another AD honorable mention. That trio represents 25 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Another letter winner — 5-10 senior guard/forward Trent Mayden (4 ppg, 3 rpg) — came off the bench and also earned AD honorable mention. (Continued on next page)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

Cochran, Hampton and Mayden are outstanding players to watch, according to Parker. So are 5-10 junior guard Josh Tucker (3 ppg, 2 rpg) and 5-10 junior guard Lane Foster (4 ppg, 2 rpg). It’s all relative for the Bobcats as Sims, Hampton and 5-10 freshman guard Lamont Nickelberry are cousins. Parker considers speed and quickness as the Bobcats’ strengths. He is concerned about a lack of height. No six-footers appear on the Childress roster. “We must play a fast-paced game and pressure the ball the length of the floor,” he said. “We return six guys that played a lot of minutes last year. We will rely on them to set the pace we want to play at.” Parker, a graduate of Pampa High School and West Texas A&M University, coached at Sanford-Fritch for four years before moving to Childress. He owns an 80-68 career boys coaching record. The Bobcats will open their season with games against Valley at home Nov. 19 and at Nazareth Nov. 22. They’ll play in the Nazareth, West Texas High and Eula tournaments. District 8-3A play begins Jan. 17. Name Matthew Cochran JaMarcus Hampton Trent Mayden Devron Sims Josh Tucker Lane Foster Alex Sauceda Lamount Nickelberry Josh Castillo

Josh Tucker

Lane Foster

Alex Sauceda

Childress Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 5-10 G/F Sr. 5-11 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-10 G Sr. 5-10 G Fr. 5-10 G Sr.

Coach: Wayne Parker Asst. Coaches: Rody Crim, Brady Blake 2018-2019 record: 25-10, 6-4 School phone: 940-937-2501 Players to watch: Devron Sims, Matthew Cochran, JaMarcus Hampton, Trent Mayden, Josh Tucker, Lane Foster

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DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 19 Dec. 20 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 13-14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

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Childress Schedule

Opponent Abernathy Gruver Tulia Valley Nazareth Tascosa Abernathy Panhandle Pampa Borger Nazareth Tournament Lipan Tournament Paducah Canadian West Texas Tournament Dimmitt Tournament Iowa Park Clarendon Memphis Wellington Eula Holiday Classic Anson Tournament Panhandle Canyon Perryton Wichita Falls High Holliday Burkburnett Bowie Henrietta Nocona City View Holliday Bowie Henrietta Nocona City View Holliday Bowie

Place B G There X Pampa There X Here X There X There X Here X Here X Here X Here X There X There X There X There X There X There X Here X There X Here X There X There X There X There X Here X Here X Here X There X Here X Here X There X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X Here X

Childress Super Boosters Good Luck Lamont!—Love, Serenity & Mom Good Luck Cats!—Love, The Hamrick Family Go Lamont and Aiden!—The Self Family Go Lamont and Devron! Go Big Blue!—The Brown Family We support the Bobcats!—The Lathems Go Lamont!—The Juavez-Longoria Family

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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District 1-2A Boys 1. Gruver 2. Stratford 3. West Texas 4. Sanford Fritch 5. Sunray 6. Boys Ranch

TEAMS AT A GLANCE PRESEASON PICKS

District 1-2A Girls 1. Gruver 2. Stratford 3. Sunray 4. West Texas 5. Boys Ranch 6. Sanford Fritch District 4-2A Boys 1. Post 2. Floydada 3. New Deal 4. Hale Center 5. Lockney 6. Ralls

District 2-2A Boys 1. Wheeler 2. Wellington/ Clarendon 4. Panhandle 5. Highland Park 6. Memphis District 4-2A Girls 1. Lockney 2. Post 3. New Deal 4. Floydada 5. Hale Center 6. Ralls

District 2-2A Girls 1. Panhandle 2. Wellington 3. Clarendon 4. Memphis 5. Wheeler 6. Highland Park

District 5-2A Boys 1. Sundown 2. Tahoka 3. Smyer 4. Seagraves 5. Plains

District 3-2A Boys 1. Farwell 2. Vega 3. Sudan/Olton 5. Bovina

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District 3-2A Girls 1. Vega 2. Sudan/Farwell 4. Bovina/Olton

District 5-2A Girls 1. Sundown 2. Plains 3. Smyer/ Seagraves 5. Tahoka

HONOR ROLL 2A Boys Caleb Thompson, Boys Ranch, 6-0, Jr.; Joseph Gonzales, Boys Ranch, 5-10, Sr.; Jacoby Douglas, Boys Ranch, 5-10, Jr.; De Montrae Marshall, Boys Ranch, 5-10, Soph.; Kamari Carruthers, Boys Ranch, 5-9, Sr.; Jamal Butler, Clarendon, 6-5, Sr.; Donovan Thompson, Clarendon, 6-3, Jr.; Carter Armes, Gruver, 5-9, Sr.; Bo Butler, Gruver, 5-9, Sr.; Jalin Conyers, Gruver, 6-5, Sr.; Matthew Felderhoff, Gruver, 6-2, Sr.; Hunter Haynes, Gruver, 5-8, Sr.; Ethan Morris, Highland Park, 6-1, Sr.; Ben Neary, Highland Park, 6-3, Sr.; Caden Thompson, Highland Park, 5-11, Jr.; Ethan Wisden, Highland Park, 6-10, Jr.; Tavion Yarbrough, Memphis, 6-1, Sr.; Jalen Drew, Memphis, 6-3, Sr.; Genaro Luna, Memphis, 6-2, Jr.; Dylan Jerden, New Deal, 6-2, Sr.; Haden Caudill, New Deal, 6-2, Sr.; Tanner Seeley, New Deal, 5-10, Jr.; Kyler Reed, New Deal, 6-1, Jr.; Leric Eaton, New Deal, 6-3, Soph.; Bryson Ramage, Olton, 5-1, Jr.; Drew Garza, Olton, 5-9, Sr.; Jack Allcorn, Olton, 5-10, Jr.; Brian Capen, Olton, 6-1, Sr.; Wes Jones, Panhandle, 6-2, Jr.; Zion Mercer, Panhandle, 5-9, Jr.; Ethan Ramirez, Smyer, 6-3, Jr.; Keaghan Beardsley, Smyer, 5-10, Sr.; Caleb Northcutt, Smyer, 6-0, Soph.; Iuden Romero, Stratford, 5-7, Sr.; Walker McBryde, Stratford, 6-1, Sr.; Ty McBryde, Stratford, 6-2, Sr.; Abraham Villegas, Stratford, 5-8, Sr.; Brit McQuitty, Stratford, 6-0, Jr.; Trever Bell, Stratford, 6-2, Jr.; Parker Battin, Sudan, 5-9, Sr.; Josh Leal, Sudan, 5-8, Sr.; Christian Montes, Sudan, 5-8, Sr.; Brice Legan, Sundown, 6-0, Sr.; Gus Davis, Sundown, 6-2, Sr.; Carson Kirkland, Vega, 5-11, Sr.; Bryson Schroeder, Vega, 5-10, Sr.; Austin Calhoun, Vega, 6-1, Sr.; Ryan Grawunder, Vega, 5-10, Soph.; Jaden Combs, Wellington, 6-4, Sr.; John Holcomb, Wellington, 6-4, Sr.; Creed Riley, Wellington, 5-10, Sr.; Jaden Costillo, Wellington, 5-10, Jr.; Kameron Harris, Wellington, 6-2, Sr.; Creighton Killian, Wellington, 5-10, Soph.; Jonah Villanueva, West Texas, 5-8, Sr.; Daniel Evans, West Texas, 6-2, Sr.; Gustavo Andrade, Wheeler, 5-11, Sr.; Brady Bailey, Wheeler, 6-2, Sr. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

2A Girls Ebonie Magana, Boys Ranch, 5-5, Sr.; Liz Tusuubira, Boys Ranch, 5-9, Sr.; Klarissa Martinez, Boys Ranch, 5-6, Jr.; Anna Poland, Boys Ranch, 6-1, Jr.; Braniya Blount, Boys Ranch, 5-9, Soph.; Rayjne Campbell, Boys Ranch, 5-6, Sr.; Mattee Johnson, Clarendon, 5-6, Sr.; Kira Weatherton, Clarendon, 5-4, Sr.; Jade Benson, Clarendon, 5-5, Jr.; Madilyn McCloy, Gruver, 5-9, Sr.; Andi Salgado, Gruver, 5-7, Jr.; Bailey Maupin, Gruver, 5-10, Soph.; Camryn Armes, Gruver, 5-4, Soph.; Cassie McClurg, Highland Park, 5-4, Fr.; Janessa Cervantes, Memphis, 5-7, Sr.; Yazmeen Henderson, Memphis, 5-9, Sr.; Charlee Whitfield, New Deal, 5-6, Jr.; Ghenevieve Vasquez, New Deal, 5-6, Soph.; Kinley Graham, Panhandle, 5-11, Sr.; Mason Jones, Panhandle, 5-10, Jr.; Bailey Walterscheid, Panhandle, 5-10, Jr.; Mackie Land, Panhandle, 5-9, Soph.; Annison Thomas, Panhandle, 5-2, Jr.; Janeht Bravo, Stratford, 5-8, Sr.; Reaghan Audrain, Stratford, 5-4, Jr.; Ashton Lavake, Stratford, 5-4, Jr.; Rese Schoonover, Stratford, 5-6, Jr.; LaShala Anderton, Stratford, 5-10, Jr.; Cody-Paige Audrain, Stratford, 5-8, Fr.; Liz Sital, Sudan, 5-7, Soph.; Stevi Lockhart, Sudan, 5-10, Fr.; Gracyn Shultz, Sudan, 5-7, Fr.; Geneva Cortez, Sundown, 5-4, Sr.; Lexie Lee, Sundown, 5-9, Jr.; Mckenzie Lee, Sundown, 5-11, Jr.; Anita Knoll, Vega, 5-6, Sr.; Lara Mason, Vega, 6-0, Sr.; Kate Link, Vega, 5-7, Jr.; Madalyn Richards, Vega, 5-6, Jr.; Daelee Hayes, Vega, 5-7, Jr.; Marie Knoll, Vega, 5-5, Sr.; Emily Jackson, Vega, 5-10, Sr.; Kaylee Jo Neeley, Wellington, 6-0, Sr.; Kyla Kane, Wellington, 5-8, Soph.; Perla Almanza, Wheeler, 5-8, Jr.

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Boys Ranch

District 1-2A Lady Riders ridin’ high

The Lady Riders had a winning record and made the playoffs last season. After taking third in the Clayton, New Mexico, Tournament, Boys Ranch went 1412 overall and 6-4 in District 1-2A, finishing third. The Lady Riders lost to Panhandle 56-36 in the bidistrict. “Team worked hard and achieved the playoffs again — the second time in school Ebonie Magana history,” Coach Kerry Moss said. Three honored seniors have moved on from that team. Sara Gilbert was all-state and the co-offensive MVP of the district. Emily Morgan and Tazia Wallace were all-district selections. Five letter winners — 5-5 senior wing Ebonie Magana, 5-9 senior forward Liz Tusuubira, 5-6 junior guard/wing Klarissa Martinez, 6-1 junior forward Anna Poland and 5-9 sophomore forward Braniya Blount — are back. Those five, along with 5-6 senior wing Rayjne Campbell, are outstanding players to watch, according to Moss. The Lady Riders’ coach lists “athletic and think the game” as his team’s strengths. Moss is concerned about the team’s youth and the players developing trust in each other. He said the keys for success will be “leadership and the ability to defend at a high level.” Moss is a graduate of Cibola High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and McMurry University. He is beginning his 10th season at Boys Ranch and 20th overall in the boys coaching ranks. He coached at Vega, Archer City, Seymour, Archer City again and Sanford-Fritch before coming to Boys Ranch. The Lady Riders will open their season Nov. 12 at Dalhart. They’ll play in the Vega and Clayton, New Mexico, tournaments. District play begins Jan. 10.

Name Caleb Thompson Joseph Gonzales Jacoby Douglas De Montrae Marshall Robert Zavala J.R. Hernandez Kamari Carruthers Kayden Morris Casey Hawkins Adriel Nurse Isiah Brown

Boys Ranch Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 F Jr. 5-10 G Sr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-10 G Soph. 6-2 F Soph. 6-2 P Jr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-9 G Soph. 6-5 F Soph. 5-10 G Sr. 5-9 G Fr.

Coach: Michael Jackson Asst. Coaches: Keenan Albracht, Mike Evans, Jeff Sanders 2018-2019 record: 6-19, 0-10 School phone: 534-1428 Players to watch: Caleb Thompson, Joseph Gonzales, Jacoby Douglas, Trae Marshall, Kamari Carruthers 172

2A

Liz Tusuubira

Klarissa Martinez

Anna Poland

Boys Ranch Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Ebonie Magana 5-5 F Sr. Liz Tusuubira 5-9 F Sr. Klarissa Martinez 5-6 G/F Jr. Anna Poland 6-1 F Jr. Braniya Blount 5-9 F Soph. Payton Martinez 5-8 F Fr. Cheyenne Andrews 5-6 F Soph. Rayjne Campbell 5-6 F Sr. Adaesha Gonzales 5-3 G/F Sr. Adilynn Martinez 5-5 G/F Fr. Aliyah Rivera 5-5 F Jr. Amaya Kearney-Yancy 5-7 G/F Soph. Coach: Kerry Moss Asst. Coach: Vedran Krtalic 2018-2019 record: 14-12, 6-4 School phone: 534-1428 Players to watch: Ebonie Magana, Liz Tusuubira, Klarissa Martinez, Anna Poland, Braniya Blount, Rayjne Campbell BOYS The Roughriders took some small steps forward last season. In Michael Jackson’s first year at Boys Ranch, the Roughriders were 3-21 overall and 0-10 in district. Last season — Year 2 for Jackson — the Roughriders won three more games, winding up 6-19. But they were again winless in district, finishing last. The highlight of the season may have been a loss. Two weeks after losing to defending Class 2A state champion West Texas High 61-32 on the road, the Roughriders played the Comanches tough, losing 53-50 at home. “Last year was a year of growth and added some needed excitement about this year,” Jackson said. “My players got needed experience.” Six seniors and a sophomore from last year have moved on, but Jackson welcomed three returning starters back this fall. Those three are 6-0 junior forward Caleb Thompson, 5-10 senior guard Joseph Gonzales and 5-10 junior guard Jacoby Douglas. “We have a good nucleus of leaders led by Caleb Thompson, Joseph Gonzales and Jacoby Douglas,” Jackson said. “These three are going into their third year on varsity. They have matured.” Jackson also mentioned letter winner De Montrae Marshall, (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

a 5-10 sophomore guard, and Kamari Carruthers, a 5-9 senior point guard. “Trae Marshall is going into his second year,” he said, “and Kamari Carruthers, a newcomer, is expected to give us a boost.” Those players represent the Roughriders’ strengths. Caleb Thompson Jackson has a couple of concerns. “The early part of the season and the return from break,” he said. “We need to develop and recapture team chemistry.” As for the keys to success this season, he said, “Defense will be key and rebounding — to keep games close and build on leads.” Jackson was a three-year football and two-year basketball letter winner under the late basketball Coach Jim Pope at Quanah High School. His football team was the state runner-up in 1988. Then he played football for Oklahoma Panhandle State University and West Texas A&M University. He coached at Highland Park from 2010 to 2016. He’s beginning his third season at Boys Ranch. The Roughriders’ scheduled opener is at River Road on Nov. 19. The home opener will be against Friona on Nov. 25. Boys Ranch will participate in the Vega and Clayton, New Mexico, tourneys. District 1-2A for the boys gets under way Jan. 21.

Joseph Gonzales

DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Jacoby Douglas

De Montrae Marshall

Boys Ranch Schedule

Opponent Dalhart River Road Highland Park Friona Adrian Vega Tournament Texline Clayton Tournament Olton Ascension Academy Memphis Stratford Ascension Academy Gruver Sanford-Fritch West Texas Sunray Stratford Gruver Sanford-Fritch West Texas Sunray Stratford Gruver

Place B G There X There X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X Clayton, NM X X There X X There X Here X There X Here X Here X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X Here X

Three members of the West Texas A&M golf team posed this summer with the tee box sign sponsored by Panhandle-Plains Basketball at the West Texas Buffalo Club Golf Classic in Canyon. They are Alyssa Campbell, left, from Lancaster, South Carolina; Briss Graham from Bushland; and Jordan Grasis from Yuma, Arizona. (Photo courtesy of Meredith Jameson, WTAMU women’s golf coach) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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Gruver

Greyhounds plan to keep racing The Greyhounds have a new coach for the second straight season. And the new mentor has big shoes to fill. Brittin East, the head coach at McLean the past three years, succeeds Andrew Brockman, who has moved to Smyer to take the boys job there. Brockman coached the Greyhounds to the Class 2A state championship game in his lone year at Gruver. He was the Amarillo Globe-News Boys Super Team coach of the year. East was a two-sport star at Pampa High School, earning all-district honors as a defensive end and tight end in football. He was a three-year starter for the Harvesters in football and two-year starter in basketball. The Texas Tech University grad began his coaching career as an assistant at Pampa for six years, then took the head job at McLean in 2016. His Tigers compiled a 52-29 overall record (28-4 in district play) and qualified for the playoffs all three years. The topper was last year when McLean reached the regional finals, losing to Nazareth. The Tigers had started the season late after most of the team was winning the 1A six-man state football championship. Brockman’s 2018-19 Greyhounds had a fabulous season. The Gruver football team reached the 2A Division II football finals last fall, and that also delayed the start of the basketball season

Jalin Conyers

Hunter Haynes

Matthew Felderhoff

Carter Armes

Bo Butler

as several Greyhounds, including star Jalin Conyers, played for both teams. (Continued on page 176)

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 30-Jan. 1 Jan. 3 Jan. 3 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Gruver Schedule

Opponent Dumas Hereford Follett Hooker Perryton Nazareth Tournament Booker White Deer Tournament Spearman Borger Dalhart Gruver Holiday Classic Vega Tascosa Sunray Wheeler Boys Ranch Borger West Texas Stratford Sanford-Fritch Sunray Boys Ranch West Texas Stratford Sanford-Fritch Sunray Boys Ranch

Place B G There X There X There X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X Here X Here X X Here X X There X There X There X Here X There X There X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X There X

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Gruver lost four early-season games, but by mid-January the Greyhounds started clicking. From that point, they reeled off 12 straight wins, capturing the District 1-2A championship with an 8-2 record. In the playoffs, the ‘Hounds defeated Panhandle 58-43 in bidistrict, Floydada 74-50 in the area game, Wheeler 56-48 in the regional quarterfinals, Sundown 55-54 in the regional semis and Wellington 44-26 in the regional finals. The one-point win over Sundown was the only close call. Gruver handled Martin’s Mill 55-42 in the state semifinals before bowing to Shelbyville 67-48 in the finals. That completed an 18-5 season. “Gruver had a late start due to the incredible success of the football team. They didn’t play a game until Christmas break, and they were rusty,” new coach East said. “The ‘Hounds had some ups and downs even through the first half of district, but then they really turned it on and finished the season strong.” Four honored players have moved on from that team. Creed Spivey was first-team all-district and second-team all-state tournament. Keegan Kelp, Jaedon Seagler and Conner Haynes were all-district honorable mentions. But East will welcome a super star and a strong supporting cast once Gruver’s football season ends. The Greyhounds have four starters and six other letter winners back. The big name is Conyers, the 6-5 senior forward. As a sophomore, Conyers starred on West Texas High’s state 2A championship team. Then he transferred to Gruver. In his junior season, Conyers averaged 21 points, 11 rebounds

and 2 assists. He was TABC all-region and all-state, the district MVP, Amarillo Globe-News Boys Super Teamer, the AGN Class 2A Golden Spread player of the year and on two all-state tournament first teams. In football, Conyers was a quarterback when he played for WT High. At Gruver, he moved to tight end. The 220-pound athlete was recruited by at least 20 Division I football coaches and signed early with Oklahoma in July with the Sooners planning to use him at tight end. Reports indicated that OU beat out Georgia and Ohio State for Conyers’ services. On a recruiting video, he admitted that basketball, not football, is his first love. Conyers will play with some familiar faces on the basketball court this season. Hunter Haynes, Carter Armes and Matthew Felderhoff all started with him last year. Hunter Haynes, brother of the departed Conner Haynes, is a 5-8 senior point guard who contributed 4 ppg, 3 rpg, 3 apg last season. He was all-district honorable mention. Armes, a 5-9 senior point guard (9 ppg, 3 rpg, 3 apg), earned first-team all-district and second-team all-state tournament team plaudits. Felderhoff, a 6-2 senior post (3 ppg, 3 rpg), was all-district honorable mention. Those four starters represent 40 points a game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. East recommends Conyers, Armes and Bo Butler as all-state candidates. Butler came off the bench to log 6 ppg, 3 rpg, 3 apg stats last season. The Greyhounds have two sets of brothers: 5-9 senior guard Creed Callaway and 5-8 junior guard Keegan Callaway; and (Continued on next page)

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5-10 senior forward Justin Millsap and 6-1 sophomore guard Colton Millsap. Colton Millsap is the only sophomore on the roster; Keegan Callaway is the only junior. The nine seniors should provide leadership, which East considers a team strength. The other strengths are athleticism, chemistry and basketball IQ. He is concerned about the team’s overall size and the players’ ability to adapt to a new system and style quickly. East lists three main keys for success this season. “1. Defense. It always comes down to defense. You will always have games where your offense struggles. Your defense has to get you going,” he said. “2. Transitioning quickly from football to basketball mode if our football team makes another deep run. “3. Staying focused and trusting the process.” His Greyhounds are scheduled to open their season Nov. 26 at Hooker, Oklahoma. The home opener is set for Dec. 3 against Perryton. They’ll play in the Nazareth, White Deer and Gruver Holiday tournaments. Their District 1-2A opener will be Jan. 17. GIRLS The Lady Hounds had a great season, too. They won District 1-2A with a perfect 10-0 record. In the playoffs, they defeated Highland Park 71-30 in bidistrict and Lockney 64-43 in the area round before bowing to Wellington 48-44 in the regional quarterfinals. That capped a 31-6 season. “We had a really young group that worked very hard and believed in what they were doing and wanted to be successful,”

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Carter Armes Bo Butler Creed Callaway Keegan Callaway Jalin Conyers Matthew Felderhoff Ricky Gavirio Hunter Haynes Tito Hernandez Colton Millsap Justin Millsap

Gruver Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-9 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 6-5 F Sr. 6-2 P Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 6-1 G Soph. 5-10 F Sr.

Coach: Brittin East Asst. Coach: Keith Mauldin 2018-2019 record: 18-5, 8-2 School phone: 733-2001 Players to watch: Carter Armes, Bo Butler, Jalin Conyers, Matthew Felderhoff, Hunter Haynes Coach Shannon Fisher said. Indeed, the Lady Hounds had only one senior on last year’s roster. Crystal Alvarez, all-district honorable mention, has moved on. That leaves Fisher with four returning starters. Leading the way is 5-10 sophomore forward Bailey Maupin. She had a sensational freshman year. She averaged 20.4 points, 9.6 rebounds and 6.6 assists. She was TABC all-state and allregion, TGCA all-state, district MVP, the newcomer of the year on the Amarillo Globe-News Girls Super Team and a member of the AGN Golden Spread Class 1A team. (Continued on next page)

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Another sophomore, 5-4 guard Camryn Armes, also was impressive as a frosh. She contributed 10.5 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 3.2 apg and earned TGCA all-state and all-district honors. Andi Salgado, a 5-7 junior forward (10.1 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 2.7 apg), also was all-district. The fourth returning stater is 5-4 senior guard Marlie Kelp, who was the district defensive MVP. Those four returning starters represent 43 points per game based on last year’s scoring statistics. Fisher considers Maupin, Armes and Salgado as all-state material and adds a fourth candidate, 5-9 senior forward Madilyn McCloy. “We should have a tremendous amount of depth with kids that have played a lot of basketball,” Fisher said. “The run we made last year with our youth should help with our experience on the floor.” Staying healthy is a concern, he said. “Finding leadership will be a main focus for us and taking care of our roles and responsibilities,” he said. “We must develop ownership within and with each other.” Fisher, a graduate of Sudan High School and Texas Tech University, is beginning his fourth season at Gruver. His Lady Hounds have gone 77-25 and made the playoffs every year. He has 18 years of head coaching experience — with stints at Roby, Snyder, Dalhart and Tulia before Gruver — and sports a 354-193 girls coaching record, a .647 winning percentage. The Lady Hounds will open their season Nov. 9 at home against Bushland. They’ll participate in the Nazareth, White Deer and their own tournament. District 1-2A play begins Jan. 14.

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Bailey Maupin

Camryn Armes

Andi Salgado

Marlie Kelp

Maddie McCloy

Kari Whitehead

Gruver Super Boosters Allen & Janice McCloy Alonso, Cynthia, Joseph, Ilana & Haven Martinez Anchor-Heart and Rawhide—Dan Wheelock Andi Travis

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Marlie Kelp Madilyn McCloy Kari Whitehead Vanesa Davila Andi Salgado Bailey Glass Saxie Ralston Kearstin Babbs Maegan Grayson Bailey Maupin Camryn Armes Kami Whitehead Callie Conyers Brenna Butler

Gruver Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-4 G Sr. 5-9 F Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-7 F Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-6 P Jr. 5-7 F Jr. 5-5 G Jr. 5-10 F Soph. 5-4 G Soph. 5-7 F Soph. 5-5 G Soph. 5-5 G Fr.

Coach: Shannon Fisher Asst. Coaches: Terry Davis, Jill Butler, Steven Livingston 2018-2019 record: 31-6, 10-0 School phone: 733-2477 Players to watch: Madilyn McCloy, Andi Salgado, Bailey Maupin, Camryn Armes

Barbara Cluck Benny & Jackie Wilson Bob & Carol Tolleson Brad, Kelly & Mary Hart Brant, Stacie, Carter, Camryn & Caden Armes

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Vanesa Davila

Kearstin Babbs

Bailey Glass

Saxie Ralston

Maegan Grayson

Good Luck Hounds!—Bray, Neely, Breely, & Drake Armes Brian, Desiray, Treyton & Sterling Johnson Britten, Lauren, Presley & Miles East Buster, Holly, pratt, Hallie & Miles McLain

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Carlos, Cassie, Chloe & Caroline Borunda Chad & Christin Clift Family Chad, Julie, Zach, Alex & Cole Logsdon Charlie & Millie Strawn Chris, Eva, Hadlee & Creed Spivey Clint & Jodi Irwin Go Hounds!—Clint & Sylvia Sims Curt & Trisha Fitzgerald Daminan, Marisela, Abbie, Buckwheat & Sophie Dan & Pennye Ralston Tim, Lexy, Bailey & Peyton Glass Coach, Kristi, Taylor & Zach, Aaron, Kailey & Matthew Felderhoff Good Luck Hounds & Lady Hounds!— Daniel & Lynn French Danny & Mary Henson Darrell & Lori Messer David & Ginny Grotegut

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Kami Whitehead

Callie Conyers

Brenna Butler

David, Patty, Garrett, Chandler & Ashlynn Miner Go Hounds!—Delinda McLaughlin, Creative Memories Derrick, Tessa, Gracee, Reese & Jace Grotegut Diego & Mirra Ortiz, Giselle , Miranda Dwayne & Linda Weller, Ray Marchman, Erma Dean McKee Dwayne, Shawn, Justin & Seth Thompson Eric, Tisha, McCormick, Merritt & McRhea Cudd

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Garrett, Mica, Sam, Gage, Mary & Charlie Gumfory Garrett, Samantha, Lane & Rylee Miner Holly, Gus, Joe T. Hattie & Mary Beth Gifford Go Hounds!—Gunter & Melissa Shelley Jack, Lisa & Blake Ellis Jason, Amber, Abigail & Turner Tebeest Jason, Missy, Justin & Kaysha Bass

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jeff & Shannon Graves Jerry & Pat Overbey Jerry & Rita Williams Jim & Mindy Davis

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Go, Fight, Win!—Joe T. & Linda Venneman Joe & Cathy Potts Johnnie, Kristi, Shelby & Madison Williams Jorge, Beatriz, Lourdez, Ramiro & Isabel Hernandez Go Lady Hounds and Hounds!—JW & Rhonda Ward Kelly Armes Kevin, Julie, Kearstin, Ella & Pake Babbs Kevin & Rhonda Holt Klint, Traci & Kennedy Venneman Kristi Holt Kyle, Kimberly, Korbin, Karsten & Klaire Irwin Lance, Lori, Rhett & Allie Sparks Lance, Mattie & Harper Williams Lance, Sahala, Gus & Sage Gaillard Land & Meagan Greason Leticia, Stephen & Matt Salazar

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Go Houndball!—Mac Boyd Main Street Barber Mark & Lanesa Washburn, Lexi Horton Mark & Pat Irwin Marti & Kara London Matt, Kayla, Macy & Katy McLennan Matt, Shanae, Knox & Twins Messer Matt & Sherry Johnson Mickey Maupin Mike & Amy Babbs Mike & Diane McLain Mikey, Lisa & Caysie Miner Fred & Janice Mayfield, Mur-Murs Café Paul & Barbara Stavio Go Hounds!—Precision Tire Service Raquel, Kailey, Kari, Kami & Kimber Whitehead Rex, Roxie, Saxie & Texie Ralston Richard & Wanda Wagner

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Rogelio, Noemi, Rogelio Jr. Edgar & KD Anaya Royce & Betty Mathews Ryan, Rebecca, Coley, Cagan, Colt & Cason Mathews Sam, Cris & Ariana Sanchez Scott, Erika, Lane & Sloan Stedje Shell, Raegan, Connor & Hunter Haynes Go Hounds!—Shirley Cattle Co. Steve & Tracy Bevill

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Go Hounds & Lady Hounds!—Ted & Mary Vela Terry, Kristi, Taylor, Zach, Aaron, Kailey & Matthew Felderhoff Terry & Sharrie Sullivan Go Hounds and Lady Hounds!—The Brad Holt Family Go Lady Hounds and Hounds!—The Fisher Family

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Go Hounds and Lady Hounds!—The Holt Family The Jason Ward Family Go Hounds and Lady Hounds!—The Livingston Family Good Luck Hounds!—The Martinez Family Go Hounds!—The Perez Family Go Hounds and Lady Hounds!—The Schibler Family Go Greyhounds!—The Tarango Family Todd, Carolyn, Gracee & Audrey Adams Tony & LaNetta Shapley Go Hounds!—Trell, Kaylee & Rally Etbauer Val & Mariene Winger Wade, Bethany, Creed, Keegan, Caris & Kinley Callaway Wade, Brooke, Case, Ella & Bree Stewart Wayne & Lou Garrett Wylie, Julie, Bailey, Wesley, Walker & Marlee Maupin

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Stratford

Lady Elks young but experienced The Lady Elks responded to Coach Lance Horsford’s return to Stratford with a fine season. Stratford finished second in District 1-2A with an 8-2 record. The Lady Elks reached the regional quarterfinals before losing to Panhandle 78-39. Panhandle, which eliminated Stratford for the second straight season in the regional quarters, advanced to the 2019 Reaghan Audrain Class 2A state semifinals. “We had a successful year in beating Clarendon (40-38) and New Deal (48-34) in the playoffs,” Horsford said. “We ran into the buzzsaw that is Panhandle to end our season.” That season ended at 23 wins and 12 losses. Another loss was senior Shaylee Audrain, who was TABC all-region. She is now playing for Oklahoma Panhandle State University. But the Audrain name lives on at Stratford. Sister Reaghan Audrain is one of three returning starters for the Lady Elks, and younger sister Cody-Paige Audrain is a promising freshman. Reaghan Audrain, a 5-4 junior guard, averaged 7.4 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.3 assists in earning first-team all-district honors. A similar honor was bestowed on 5-8 senior forward Janeht Bravo, who contributed 10 ppg, 4.9 rpg last season. Bravo, the only senior

Janeht Bravo

Rese Schoonover

on this year’s team, and six juniors are returning letter winners. Horsford nominates Reaghan Audrain and Bravo as all-state candidates. Ashton Lavake, a 5-4 junior guard (6.5 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.2 apg), is the third returning starter. Those three starters represent 24 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Lavake, 5-6 junior forward Rese Schoonover ( 6.6 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 3 apg), 5-10 junior forward LaShala Anderton and 5-8 freshman forward Cody-Paige Audrain are players to watch, according to their coach. Horsford lists experience and athleticism as the Lady Elks’ strengths. He’s concerned about the lack of a big player. Anderton, (Continued on next page)

DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Nov. 25 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 27 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 30 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Ashton Lavake

Stratford Schedule

Opponent Bushland Palo Duro Nazareth Happy Farwell White Deer Vega Tournament Tulia Pampa Vega Dumas Bushland Pampa Canadian Tournament Clarendon Dalhart Panhandle Boys Ranch Sanford-Fritch Dumas Sunray Gruver West Texas Boys Ranch Sanford-Fritch Sunray Gruver West Texas Boys Ranch Sanford-Fritch

Place B G Here X There X Vega X Here X TBD X Here X X There X X Here X Here X There X X There X Here X There X There X Here X X Here X X Here X Here X Here X There X There X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X Here X

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at 5-10, is the tallest Lady Elk. He suggests two keys for success this season: “1. Continue to play good defense and rebound; 2. Improve our ability to score from the perimeter.” Horsford has coached boys and girls team for 27 years. He coached the Elks for 15 years through the 2011-12 season. He had previously coached at Meridian and Lubbock Cooper. He returned to Stratford last year so this will be his second season directing the Lady Elks and 17th overall season at Stratford. His boys teams have won 114 and lost 81; his girls team stand 331-160. Combined, that’s a 445-241 career record for a .649 winning percentage. Horsford is a graduate of Abernathy High School and Texas Tech University. The Lady Elks will open the season Nov. 12 at home against Bushland. They’ll play in the Vega and Canadian tournaments. District 1-2A play begins Jan. 10.

Then there are the McBryde twins — 6-1 senior guard Walker (10.2 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 4.5 apg) and 6-2 senior guard Ty (10.4 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 3.3 apg). Plus 5-8 senior guard Abraham Villegas (9.5 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 6.9 apg). Those four represent 42.7 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Wyatt recommends the whole quartet as all-state material. The wealth doesn’t stop there. Wyatt tabs 6-0 junior guard Brit McQuitty (5.2 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 4.1 apg) and 6-2 junior guard Trever Bell (6.5 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 3.2 apg) as additional players to watch. A pair of sophomore guards — 6-1 Anastacio Ibarra (4.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 2.1 apg), and 6-0 Cody Rinne (7.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 3.6 apg) — also lettered last year. (Continued on next page)

BOYS Last season the Elks took a small step backward, a rarity under Coach Trey Wyatt. Getting their usual late start because of football, the Elks wound up 8-9 overall and 4-7 in district, finishing fifth. That marked the first losing season in Wyatt’s seven at Stratford and the first time his team missed the playoffs. Nevertheless, Wyatt saw some encouraging signs. “We had a young team last year that competed well in every game,” he said. “We came up just a few points short of making the playoffs.” Things are looking brighter for this season. “We have everyone coming back off of last year’s team,” Wyatt said. That includes 5-7 senior guard Iuden Romero, who averaged 12.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 5.4 assists last season, earning all-district distinction.

Lashala Anderton

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Kori Salas

Hilda Romero

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“We do not have a lot of height,” Wyatt said. As for the keys for success this season, he said, “We need to improve every game and hit the floor running when basketball season starts. These young men work very hard and I’m excited to see what happens this year.” Wyatt, a graduate of Silverton High School and West Texas A&M University, is beginning his eighth season at Stratford. His Elks had posted six straight winning season until last year’s blip. Wyatt’s Stratford squads have won 115 and lost 40 overall. In district play, they’re 56-15. Before coming to Stratford, Wyatt coached at Wellington, Cross Plains, Sunray, Dimmitt and Rule. His 13-year overall boys coaching record is 185-97. The Elks’ scheduled opener is Dec. 3 at home against White Deer. They’ll participate in the Vega Tournament Dec. 5-7 and begin District 1-2A competition Jan.17.

Stratford Super Boosters Tommy & Becky Asher Clint & Cindy Seward Nate, Keri, Klaire & Kooper Walden Kelli & Kenedi Groves David, Terri, Casey, Chase & Caden Lantelme Roger, Brandi, Lara, Addie & Maylee Wells Eddie, Stacy & Carlee Metcalf The Bells—Adam, Mika, Trever, Addison & Makenzie Don & ViAnn Reed Gared, Misti, Jack, Walker & Ty McBryde Luden, Hilda & Alex Romero John, Valerie, Kori, JoJo & Izzy Salas Joe & Jessie Valenzuela Skinny & Chief Jose & Concepcion Aguilera Heather, Clayton, Brit, Corbin, Ethan, Wyatt, Morgan & Gilbert Coach Murphy & Family Omar, Rocio, Eiylene, Mia & Izley Torres The Burr Family—Ed, Christy, preston, Laynee & Zane Burr Jamie, Desine, Marcos & Desinya Garza John & Susan Wheeler Dick & Barbara Chumley Roger Allen John & Nina Lavake Casey & Caden Lantelme Oscar, Susan, Brenda & Ale Portillo Pedro, Altagracia, Adamaris & Pedro Gael Mayorga 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Iuden Romero

Walker McBryde

Abraham Villegas

Name Iuden Romero Walker McBryde Ty McBryde Abraham Villegas Brit McQuitty Trever Bell Anastacio Ibarra Cody Rinne Tyler Stone Fernando Martinez

Ty McBryde

Fernando Martinez

Stratford Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-7 G Sr. 6-1 G Sr. 6-2 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 6-0 G Jr. 6-2 G Jr. 6-1 G Soph. 6-0 G Soph. 5-6 G Jr. 6-1 G Sr.

Coach: Trey Wyatt Asst. Coach: Casey Lantelme 2018-2019 record: 8-9, 4-7 School phone: 366-3300 Players to watch: Iuden Romero, Walker McBryde, Ty McBryde, Abraham Villegas, Brit McQuitty, Trever Bell

Omar Portillo Tommy & Judy Stoy Coach Keener, Trisha & Rese Schoonover Gregg & Shari Hudson Michael, Tammy & Cody Rinne W & C Land & Cattle, LTD—Wesley & Cindy Miller Adam, Erin, Cody & Bailey Gerrond Rockey, Stacy & Tyler Stone Michael, Lynz, Kaydence, John Michael & Garrett Hood Billy, Krista, Jaci & Brendi Brown Davey, Katie, Lennon & Greer Johnson Greg, Marsha & Taylor Wright Trey, Candice, Jackson & Matti Gee Wyatt Dean, Joli, Brylynn & Layton Hauser Jason, Laura, Lexi & Kennedy Rogers 2A

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Name Janeht Bravo Reaghan Audrain Ashton Lavake Rese Schoonover Kori Salas LaShala Anderton Hilda Romero Cody-Paige Audrain

Stratford Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 F Sr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-6 F Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-10 F Jr. 5-0 G Jr. 5-8 F Fr.

Coach: Lance Horsford Asst. Coaches: Justin Mungia, Savannah Bartlett 2018-2019 record: 23-12, 8-2 School phone: 366-3300 Players to watch: Janeht Bravo, Reaghan Audrain, Ashton Lavake, Rese Schoonover, LaShala Anderton, Cody-Paige Audrain

Gerardo & Maida Reyes, Yordan Perez, Adali Reyes, Mia Reyes, Evelyn Reyes Brenda, Jordon, Shyanne Acker, Shannon & Brody Hensley Josue, Brenda & Israel Licon John, RoAnn, Dezereray & Faith Time Kevin, heather, Luke, Bryce & Madi Braden

Go Elks!—Jerold, Becky, Braxton, Alianna & Kamryn Frizzell Lance & Dinah Horsford Marcus, Ashly, Ashton & Mason Lavake

District 2-2A Conkins still married to coaching

Clarendon

The Conkins still are the Mr. and Mrs. of Clarendon basketball. Husband Clint Conkin coaches the Broncos; wife Korey Conkin mentors the Lady Broncos. Clint Conkin directed the Broncos for the first time last season, and his team finished 19-12 overall and 6-4 in District 2-2A for third place. Clarendon eliminated defending Class 1A state champion Name Jamal Butler Collin Butler Jordan Herndon Donovan Thompson Sylvester Ballard Jmaury Davis Lamarcus Penigar

Clarendon Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-5 P Sr. 5-11 G Sr. 5-10 G Soph. 6-3 G Jr. 6-1 G Fr. 6-2 G Fr. 5-7 G Soph.

Coach: Clint Conkin Asst. Coach: Alton Gaines 2018-2019 record: 19-12, 6-4 School phone: 874-2181 Players to watch: Jamal Butler, Donovan Thompson

West Texas High 49-36 in bidistrict but was edged by New Deal 69-68 in the area game. Cameron Smith (all-district), Caton Grahn and Dalton Benson were the key senior departures off that team. Conkin starts the 2019-20 season with three returning starters but no other letter winners. Jamal Butler, a 6-5 senior post, was the district newcomer of the year last season. Butler and 6-3 junior guard Donovan Thompson are all-state candidates this season, according to their coach. The third returning starter is 5-11 senior guard Collin Butler. Conkin tabs Collin Butler, 6-2 freshman guard Jmaury Davis, 5-10 sophomore guard Jordan Herndon and 6-1 freshman guard Sylvester Ballard as other outstanding players to watch. The Broncos are young with only two seniors (the Butlers) and one junior (Thompson) on the roster. Speed and size are the Broncos’ strengths, according to Conkin. He is concerned about depth and the players’ knowledge of the game. Executing pressure defense and up-tempo offense will be the keys to a successful season, he said. Conkin, a graduate of Anton High School and Texas Tech University, coached at Farwell, Littlefield and Memphis before (Continued on next page)

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coming to Clarendon. He has 12 years’ experience as a head basketball coach. The Broncos often get a late start to the season because of football, so they’re not scheduled to debut until Dec. 3. They’ll play in the Miami and White Deer tournaments. District 2-2A play begins Jan. 17 for the boys. Mattee Johnson GIRLS The Lady Broncos made the playoffs last season for the second time in Korey Conkin’s three-year tenure in Clarendon. And they reached the 20-win level. The Lady Broncos finished second in the Miami Tournament, losing to Gruver in the finals. Then, in White Deer’s round robin event, they beat Gruver and wound up 3-2. They posted a 6-4 record in District 2-2A for third place. Clarendon lost to Stratford 40-38 in its bidistrict playoff game. That put the finishing touches on a 20-14 campaign. “We lost a tough, close game in the playoffs,” Conkin said. “We played well in the preseason but need to improve for the higher level of competition in our district.” Sandrea Smith, a two-year starter and two-time all-district, and starters Brandalyn Ellis and Emily Johnson have moved on from that team. However, Conkin has four returning players who logged some starts last season. Leading the way is 5-6 senior guard Mattee Johnson, no relation to Emily Johnson. The two-year starter was an all-district pick last year. Conkin sees her as an all-stater this season. Johnson

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jade Benson

Kira Weatherton

Ashlynn Newsome

is the sister of former Lady Bronco Carlee Johnson. Mattee and Carlee Johnson are the daughters of the late David Johnson, who was on the cover of this magazine in 1991 for Pampa, and Sandi Stevens Johnson, who was on the cover in 1992 for Canyon. Jade Benson, a 5-5 junior forward, was the district newcomer of the year last season. She’s a player to watch, along with 5-4 senior point guard Kira Weatherton. Ashlynn Newsome, a 5-4 junior guard, is the fourth returning starter. Makayla Brown, a 5-6 senior forward, also lettered last year. Madisen Gay, a 5-6 senior forward, and Kaylin Hicks, a 5-4 junior guard, are sisters. “We will have lots of speed, which will be beneficial to our defensive threat,” Conkin said, “and we have good outside shooters.” She is concerned about the lack of size inside on offense. “If the team can unite and use our speed as an advantage defensively, then we will be successful,” Conkin said. “We must be disciplined enough to block out and be patient with our offenses.” Conkin is coaching at her high school alma mater. She was a (Continued on next page)

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four-year starter for the Lady Broncos and was all-district three years and all-region two years. Then she was a two-year starter at Clarendon College and played on CC’s 1998 NSCAA champions. She earned her bachelor’s degree at Texas Tech University. She coached five years at Farwell and nine years at Littlefield before coming to Clarendon. She begins her fourth season as the Lady Broncos’ mentor with a 61-37 career girls coaching record. The Lady Broncos will open their season at home Nov. 9 against Perryton. They’ll participate in the Miami and White Deer tourneys. The District 2-2A opener for the girls is Jan.10. DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 30 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Place B G Here X There X Here X There X Here X There X Here X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X There X There X There X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X There X

Good Luck Broncos!—Nathan, Elzabeth, Kase & Kinzi Zongker Go Mattee! We love the Broncos!—Sandi, Dixee, Suzee, Carlee & Steven Johnson Good Luck Broncos!—The Gonzalez Family

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Madisen Gay

Amnesty Oatman

Kaylin Hicks

Kailee Osburn

Madison Smith

Clarendon Schedule

Opponent Perryton White Deer Claude McLean West Texas High Lockney Pampa/Borger Miami Tournament Vega White Deer Tournament Childress/Dumas Stratford San Jacinto Farwell Bushland Wellington Dalhart Memphis Wheeler Panhandle Highland Park Wellington Memphis Wheeler Panhandle Highland Park Wellington Memphis

Clarendon Super Boosters

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MaKayla Brown

Name Mattee Johnson Kira Weatherton MaKayla Brown Jade Benson Ashlynn Newsome Madisen Gay Madison Smith Eboni Butler Amnesty Oatman Kaylin Hicks Kailee Osburn

Clarendon Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-6 F Sr. 5-5 F Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-6 F Sr. 5-7 G Soph. 5-7 P Sr. 5-6 P Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-5 F Jr.

Coach: Korey Conkin Asst. Coaches: Kasey Bell, Carrie Hicks 2018-2019 record: 20-14, 6-4 School phone: 874-2181 Players to watch: Mattee Johnson, Jade Benson, Kira Weatherton

Go Emberly!—The Gonzalez Family Go Lady Broncos!—Richard & Medina Gribble Go Lady Broncos!—The Gribble Family Good Luck! We Love You Tandy!—Love, Uncle Lance & Aunt Weicey We Love You Tandy Jo!—Love, Mom & Kevin Way to Go Tandy Jo!—Love Nana Che and Linde Shadle We wish the Broncos a great season!—J & W Lumber Go Broncos and Lady Broncos!—Bobbie & Missy 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Highland Park

After rough start, future looks brighter Tanner Strickland had a rough baptism as the Hornets’ coach last year. The loss of a key player certainly didn’t help. Highland Park wasn’t able to capitalize on its drop down to the Class 2A level. The Hornets finished 7-20 overall and 1-9 in District 2-2A for sixth place. “Losing Ben Neary all year to a Week 10 football injury was devastating.” Strickland Hunter Nicholas said. “Having him back will greatly help us.” Neary isn’t the only one back. There were no seniors in the program last year, so everyone is back. That means all five starters and five other letter winners. Two players earned honors last season. Hunter Nicholas, a 6-3 senior guard, averaged 21.3 points and 6.1 rebounds in earning all-district distinction. Strickland views Nicholas as an all-stater this season. Ethan Morris, a 6-1 senior guard, contributed 12.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg and was all-district honorable mention. Those two started, along with 5-9 senior Chris Pointer (3.6 ppg, 2.2 rpg), 5-11 junior forward Caden Thompson (2.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg) and 6-10 junior post Ethan Wisden (2.3 ppg, 3.8 rpg). Those five represent 43 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Strickland lists Morris, Thompson, Wisden and Neary as additional players to watch. Neary is a 6-3 senior forward who lettered as a sophomore before sitting out last season because of his football injury. All that returning experience represents the Hornets’ strength, according to Strickland. Overcoming adversity is his main concern. He lists five keys for a successful season: • Trust in players and coaches; • Confidence in team and self; • Unbeatable work ethic; • Pride in program; • Winning the little things. Before coming to Highland Park, Strickland served as an assistant coach at Borger and Brownfield. He is a graduate of Sanford-Fritch High School and West Texas A&M University. He is the younger brother of Josh Strickland, Adrian’s boys coach. The Hornets will open at home Nov. 22 against Boys Ranch. They’ll play in the Nazareth, Lockney and Hale Center tournaments. District play begins Jan. 17. GIRLS The Lady Hornets had to earn their playoff spot the hard way. They won the last berth in District 2-2A by beating Memphis 52-42 and Wheeler 46-38 on back-to-back days in the play-in competition. They lost their bidistrict game to Gruver 71-30. That completed a 6-23 overall and 4-8 district (for fourth place) campaign. But there were some high points for the Lady Hornets. After 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Ethan Morris

Ben Neary

Caden Thompson

losing an early season game 52-24 to Class 4A Borger, Highland Park rebounded to beat the Bulldogs 60-51 four days later. Then there was the late push to get into the playoffs. “Last season was a challenge,” Coach Matt Hernandez said. “We fought through some tough losses and had to bounce back during the second half of district after starting 0-4.” Jay’Lyn Taylor, who averaged 18 points and 5 assists, was all-district. Hayley Ewing (5 ppg) was AD honorable mention. Both have moved on. The Lady Hornets have three starters and three other letter winners returning. Emma Patterson and sisters Cynarah Rodriquez and Nevaeh Rodriquez all started last season. Patterson, a 5-5 senior guard, averaged 8 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists and was an all-district honorable mention. She is the sister of former Lady Hornet Addy Patterson. Cynarah Rodriquez, a 5-5 senior guard, was also an AD honorable mention on the basis of 8 ppg, 4 rpg. Nevaeh Rodriquez, a 5-9 sophomore post, contributed 4 ppg, 2 rpg last season. The other returning letter winners are 5-9 sophomore post (Continued on page 201)

Emma Patterson

Cynarah Rodriguez

Kenli Bebout

Nevaeh Rodriguez

Bailey Harrison

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Highland Park Schedule DATE

Opponent

Place

B G

Nov. 22

Boys Ranch

Here

X X

Nov. 25

Sunray

Here

X X

Nov. 26

Fritch

There

X X

Dec. 3

Groom

There

X X

Dec. 5-7

Nazareth Tournament

There

X X

Dec. 10

Borger

There

X X

Dec. 12-14

Lockney Tournament

There

X X

Dec. 17

River Road

There

X

Dec. 17

Tulia

There

Dec. 20

Booker

Here

X X

Dec. 27-28

Hale Center Tournament

There

X X

Jan. 3

Dumas

Here

X X

Jan. 7

Friona

There

X

Jan. 7

Floydada

There

X

Jan. 10

Wheeler

Here

X

Jan. 10

Perryton

There

X

Jan. 14

Vega

Here

X

X

Jan. 14

Panhandle

There

Jan. 17

Memphis

Here

X X

Jan. 21

Wellington

Here

X X

Jan. 24

Clarendon

There

X X

Jan. 28

Wheeler

There

X X

Jan. 31

Panhandle

Here

X X

Feb. 4

Memphis

There

X X

Feb. 7

Wellington

There

X X

Feb. 11

Clarendon

Here

X X

Feb. 14

Wheeler

Here

X

Feb. 18

Panhandle

There

X

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X

Name Hunter Nicholas Ethan Morris Chris Pointer Ben Neary James Harton Caden Thompson Jerry Toe Ethan Wisden Jax Reese Tra’Von Johnson

Highland Park Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-3 G Sr. 6-1 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-3 F Sr. 6-4 F Sr. 5-11 F Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 6-10 P Jr. 6-1 P Jr. 5-9 G Sr.

Coach: Tanner Strickland Asst. Coaches: Ferlin Seaman, Keith Crosby 2018-2019 record: 7-20, 1-9 School phone: 335-2821 Players to watch: Ethan Morris, Ben Neary, Caden Thompson, Ethan Wisden Highland Park Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Emma Patterson 5-5 G Sr. Cynarah Rodriquez 5-5 G Sr. Kenli Bebout 5-5 G Sr. Bailey Harrison 5-4 G Sr. Brandy Dominguez 5-9 P Jr. Kendalyn Kosechata 5-9 P Soph. Nevaeh Rodriquez 5-9 P Soph. Cassie McClurg 5-4 G Fr. Mercedes Harton 5-10 P Fr. Kyra Courtemanche 6-1 P Fr. Coach: Matt Hernandez Asst. Coaches: Tara Salmon, Matt Taylor, Lindsey Caughlin 2018-2019 record: 6-23, 4-8 School phone: 335-2821 Player to watch: Cassie McClurg

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(Continued from page 199)

James Harton

Chris Pointer Ethan Wisden

Tra’Von Johnson Jerry Toe

Jax Reese

Kendalyn Kosechata (2 ppg, 2 rpg), 5-5 senior guard Kenli Bebout and 5-4 senior guard Brandy Dominguez. Hernandez tabs 5-4 freshman guard Cassie McClurg as another outstanding player to watch. He cited togetherness as the team’s strength. “The majority of the team played together last year (and) currently play volleyball together,” Hernandez said. He is concerned about the Lady Hornets’ depth and size. The keys for success this season are “finding our identity (and) playing tough, hard-nosed defense,” he said. Hernandez is beginning his second season at Highland Park. Previously, he coached a year at San Angelo Lake View after serving as an assistant coach at Tascosa for two years. He has a 9-50 varsity girls coaching record but a 50-12 sub-varsity mark. He played on Randall basketball teams that reached the regionals twice and a Randall tennis team that made the regionals. He is a graduate of West Texas A&M University. The Lady Hornets will open their season at home Nov. 22 against Boys Ranch. They’ll play in the Nazareth, Lockney and Hale Center tournaments. District 2-2A play begins Jan.10.

Memphis

Lady Cyclones eying postseason The Lady Cyclones just missed making the playoffs in Jerry Cathey’s first year as coach. With six letter winners returning, they may make the postseason this year. Memphis went 10-21 overall and 2-8 in District 2-2A. Still, the Lady Cyclones wound up in a three-way tie for fourth in the conference but lost a play-in game to Highland Park. Erin Monroe, honorable mention all-district, was the key loss from that team. Janessa Cervantes, a 5-7 senior forward, and Yazmeen Henderson, a 5-9 senior forward, are two outstanding players to watch, according to Cathey. Cervantes and Henderson are listed as returning starters, along with 5-6 senior guard Raven Newsome, 5-8 senior post Abby Proffitt and 5-6 sophomore guard Kelbi Lindley. Letter winners Kyrie Valdez, a 5-6 sophomore guard, and Allyson Chavera, a 5-7 junior forward, add more experience. Chavera has a younger sister, 5-7 freshman forward Audrey Chavera, on the team. That experience rates as a team strength in the coach’s estimation. But depth is an area of concern. Cathey outlined the keys for success this season as “buying in and having a proper attitude.” Cathey is a graduate of Chillicothe High School and West Texas A&M University. Before taking charge of the Lady Cyclones last season, he served one season as the assistant boys coach at Memphis. Before that, he coached both the boys and girls teams for the (home-schooled) Amarillo Flames and the boys at Adrian. His girls (10-21) and boys (7-37) records give him a combined career coaching mark of 17-58. But he’s 29-5 as an assistant coach. The Lady Cyclones will open the season Nov. 8 at Tulia. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Janessa Cervantes

Yaz Henderson

Raven Newsome

Abby Proffitt

Kelbi Lindley

Kyrie Valdez

The home opener is Nov. 19 against Paducah. They’ll play in the Fantasy of Lights Tournament in Wichita Falls, their own tournament and the Valley tourney. District play begins Jan. 10. BOYS The Cyclones just missed making the playoffs, too. They finished fifth in District 2-2A with a 3-7 record. Memphis was 12-17 overall.

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A bit disappointing, considering the Cyclones went 29-5, won their district and reached the regional quarterfinals in their previous season, their first under Coach Kevin Alexander. The key departures from last year’s squad were all-district Cruz Torres and all-district honorable mention Randy Cox. But Alexander has some experience returning this season. The Cyclones’ coach thinks he has two all-state candidates in 6-1 senior point guard Tavion Yarbrough and 6-3 senior guard Jalen Drew. Genaro Luna, a 6-3 junior forward, is another player to watch. Alexander considers experience as his team’s strength, but he is concerned about depth. As far as keys for success this season, Alexander said, “Utiliz-

Tavion Yarbrough

Jalen Drew

Genaro Luna

Casen Morris

Alfonso Garcia

Cutter O’Neal

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ing our quickness and our bigs down low.” In addition to the 6-2 Luna, the Cyclones have 6-5 junior post Casen Morris down low. Alexander is beginning his third season coaching at his high school alma mater. He played four sports — football, basketball, track and tennis — for the Cyclones. He later played football at Wayland Baptist University. Before coming to Memphis, Alexander coached at Hartley. His overall boys coaching record is 59-46. His Cyclones have won 41 and lost 22. The Cyclones will open the season Nov. 8 at Tulia. The home opener is Nov. 19 against Paducah. They’ll play in the Fantasy of Lights Tournament in Wichita Falls, their own tournament and the Valley tourney. District play begins Jan. 10.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

DATE Nov. 8 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Nov. 29-30 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 19 Jan. 3 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 14 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Memphis Schedule

Opponent Tulia Fort Elliott Booker Paducah Borger Quanah Fantasy of Lights Tournament River Road Memphis Tournament Bushland Valley Tournament New Deal Amarillo Flames Childress Sanford-Fritch Panhandle Borger Clarendon West Texas High Highland Park Wheeler Wellington Panhandle Clarendon Highland Park Wheeler Wellington Panhandle Clarendon

Place B G There X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Wichita Falls X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X There X Here X There X X Here X X There X There X Here X There X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X Here X

Good luck Cyclones and Lady Cyclones

Allyson Chavera

Danielle Middleton

Audrey Chavera

Name Janessa Cervantes Raven Newsome Abby Proffitt Yazmeen Henderson Kelbi Lindley Danielle Middleton Allyson Chavera Audrey Chavera Kyrie Valdez Ava Arant Zoe Castillo

Doty Arant

Nairoby Villa

Memphis Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-7 F Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-8 P Sr. 5-9 F Sr. 5-6 G Soph. 5-7 G Jr. 5-7 F Jr. 5-7 F Fr. 5-6 G Soph. 5-10 F Fr. 5-6 G Soph.

Coach: Jerry Cathey Asst. Coach: Kaprisha Casas 2018-2019 record: 10-21, 2-8 School phone: 259-5900 Players to watch: Janessa Cervantes, Yazmeen Henderson

Memphis Super Boosters Have a great Season!—Scott, Summer, Sarah & Riley Lindley Go Cyclones!—Morgan Jaynes Go Kelbi!—The Koepke Family Go Cyclones and Lady Cyclones!—The

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Name Tavion Yarbrough Jalen Drew Genaro Luna Casen Morris Cutter O’Neal Alfonso Garcia

Memphis Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-1 G Sr. 6-3 G Sr. 6-2 F Jr. 6-5 P Jr. 5-10 G Soph. 5-11 G Jr.

Coach: Kevin Alexander Asst. Coach: Jared Casas 2018-2019 record: 12-17, 3-7 School phone: 259-5900 Players to watch: Tavion Yarbrough, Jalen Drew, Genaro Luna

Panhandle

Pantherettes familiar with state tourney The Pantherettes added another chapter to an amazing book of success last season, reaching the state tournament for the third time in four years, all under Coach Rob Schmucker. Panhandle lost to Martin’s Mill 49-47 in the state Class 2A semifinals when a Lady Mustang made two free throws with 1.9 seconds left in the game. The Pantherettes had erased a seven-point fourth-quarter deficit to tie the score with 23 seconds remaining. That capped a 32-5 season for the Ettes, their fourth straight 30-plus win season. In Schmucker’s five seasons at Panhandle, his teams have won 157 and lost only 23, an .872 winning percentage. They were state runners-up in 2016, won it all in 2017 and reached the state semis last year. In 2018, they just missed, losing in the regional finals. Schmucker coached boys teams at O’Donnell and Lockney and girls at Alvord before coming to Panhandle for the 2014-15 season. His first Panhandle team went 28-6 and reached the regional quarterfinals. The Nazareth High School and West Texas A&M University graduate has his wife, Sheena Schmucker, as an assistant coach. Last year’s Ettes were co-champions with Wellington in District 2-2A, both with 9-1 records. The Ettes won the “rubber” match, defeating the Lady Rockets 53-35 in the regional finals. Before that, Panhandle defeated Boys Ranch 56-36 in bidistrict, Vega 62-39 in the area game, Stratford 78-39 in the regional quarters and Christoval 67-23 in the regional semis. Three outstanding seniors on that club have departed. All three were members of the 2016 state champions. Last year, Lainey Choate was the district offensive MVP, TGCA all-state, TABC all-region and all-state and second team 204

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Lainey Choate

Bree Baker

Masyn Reining

on the Amarillo Globe-News Super Team. Masyn Reining was first-team all-district and TABC all-region. Bree Baker was firstteam all-district. One honored player returns. Mason Jones, a 5-10 junior guard, was the district defensive MVP, TGCA all-state, TABC all-region and all-state and on the Class 2A AGN Golden Spread team. Jones averaged 12.8 points and 3 rebounds last season. She is a returning starter, along with 5-11 senior forward Kinley Graham (6.9 ppg, 4.4 rpg). Schmucker considers Jones and Graham as all-state candidates. He tabs three others as additional outstanding players to watch. They are 5-2 junior guard Annison Thomas, 5-9 sophomore Mackie Land (2.4 ppg, 2.8 rpg) and 5-10 junior guard Bailey Walterscheid (3.3 ppg, 2.4 rpg). Both Land and Walterscheid lettered last year. Two other letter winners — 5-9 senior forward Ella Satterwhite (3.2 ppg, 3.1 rpg) and 5-8 junior guard Emmery Sides (3.1 (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

ppg) — also return. “I think that we are going to be long, athletic and good outside shooters,” Schmucker said. He’s concerned because the Pantherettes will be young and inexperienced. Schmucker has established the acronym MTXE to describe his keys for success this Wesley Jones season. “Mental toughness and extra effort in everything that we do on and off the court,” he said. BOYS The Panthers began last season with only one returning starter, and it showed in the results. Panhandle wound up 11-15 overall and 4-6 in District 2-2A, finishing fourth. The Panthers did make the playoffs, losing to Gruver 57-43 in bidistrict. “Our team had very little varsity experience and it showed at times,” Coach Cory Lynch said. “Our tradition and work ethic helped get us in the post-season.” Kaison Kirkland, the district defensive MVP and all-region, and all-district honorable mentions Gage Hughey and Brayden Kingston have moved on from that team. The Panthers will begin this season with two returning starters — 6-2 junior post Wes Jones and 5-9 junior point guard Zion Mercer. Jones averaged 9.7 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists in earning all-district distinction. Mercer (7.2 ppg, 3 rpg, 4 apg) was an all-district honorable mention. The only other letter winner on the squad is 6-1 senior post

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Zion Mercer

Christian Debose

Luke McCoy

Christian Debose. Debose and 5-10 senior guard Luke McCoy are the only seniors on the roster, which features seven juniors. “We are very excited about our returning players along with adding some kids from our very successful JV,” Lynch said. “Our athleticism and depth should be strengths.” What are the keys for success this season? “We must ramp up our defensive pressure and turn that into easy opportunities on the offensive end of the floor,” he said. Lynch, a graduate of West Texas High School and Lubbock Christian University, is beginning his 12th season at Panhandle. He previously coached at Wheeler, Dimmitt and Archer City. His 14-year career boys coaching record is 247-149, a .624 winning percentage.

Go Panhandle!

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Macklynn Land

Bailey Walterscheid

Ella Satterwhite

Panhandle Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Kinley Graham 5-11 F Sr. Ella Satterwhite 5-9 F Sr. Mason Jones 5-10 G Jr. Bailey Walterscheid 5-10 G Jr. Mackie Land 5-9 F Soph. Emmery Sides 5-8 G Jr. Hallie Ford 5-6 G Jr. Annison Thomas 5-2 G Jr. Keeley Harding 5-6 G Soph. Maccie Northcutt 5-6 G Fr. Coach: Rob Schmucker Asst. Coaches: Sheena Schmucker, McKinsie Childers 2018-2019 record: 32-5, 9-1 School phone: 537-3851 Players to watch: Kinley Graham, Mason Jones, Bailey Walterscheid, Mackie Land, Annison Thomas

PanhandleSuper Boosters Good Luck Panthers and Ettes!—The Scheves

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Emmery Sides

Halle Ford

Keeley Harding

Good Luck!—Smokey & CJ Howard Go Ettes!—The Rocha & Booth Family Maccie, Go out and show us how to be a baller! God has your back. We love you!— Brian, Sandra & Shayla Go Panthers and Ettes!—Terry & Anna Lewis Go Panthers and Ettes! Have a Great Year! We wish the Panthers and Pantherettes good luck!—Kevin & Christie Brown Go Luke! Panthers and Pantherettes!—McCoy Family Go Panthers and Ettes!—Shawn, Jill, Payton & Dylan Pohlmeier Good Luck!—Lyle & Tina Fussell Go Panthers!—The Mostellar Family Go Keeley!—Love, Dad & Lily

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Christian Debose Luke McCoy Wes Jones Zion Mercer Zach Wood Maddox Reynolds Dylan Segura Zach Whitt Logan McCoid Landyn Hack Colter Lynch

Panhandle Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-1 P Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 6-2 P Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-11 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-0 G Jr. 6-3 F Fr. 6-2 P Fr.

Coach: Cory Lynch Asst. Coaches: Forrest Harding, Chris MacKeown, David Roulston 2018-2019 record: 11-15, 4-6 School phone: 537-3851 Players to watch: Wes Jones, Zion Mercer

Go Keeley! #25—Love, Mom, Dad, Lily, Westin, Mommom & Grady Go Bailey, Graci and Annison!—The McBee Family Go Ettes!—Danny & Marva Good Luck Panthers and Ettes!—Scott & Becky James Good Luck Panthers and Ettes!—Coach Mac & Melissa MacKeown & Family

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Go Panthers and Ettes!—Todd, Kristi, Clay & Bryce Wagner Good Luck Bailey and Annison!—Mike, Alicia & Camden Pace Go Panthers and Pantherettes!—Coach & Crystal Murdock Good Luck Panthers and Ettes!—Shane, Keri, Kade, Mackenzi, Kollier & Kirby Miller Go Panthers! Go Ettes!—Patti, Blair & Carson Good Luck Panthers and Ettes!—Mark & Debora Arnold Good Luck Ettes! We love you Halle and Kandin!—Nana & Grumpy Good Luck!—Jason, Kandus, Landon & Maebry Jeffers Show that Panther Pride!—Dana, Paige & Thane Adams Go Panthers and Pantherettes!—Kevin, Amber, Taylor & Cooper Brinkley Best of Luck!—James & Linda Meaker Go! Fight! Win!—Mercantile Off Main Panhandle Go Panthers and Ettes!—Coach Haberthur, Delma, Jayci & Mackenzi Stokes Go Ettes!—Stephen, Emily, Trae, Makennah & Ellie Austin

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20

Panhandle Schedule

Opponent Abernathy Dumas Caprock Sunray Nazareth Childress McLean Canadian Amarillo Flames Nazareth Tournament Vega Tournament Canyon Happy Dimmitt Tournament White Deer Tournament Tascosa White Deer Pampa

Place B G Here X Here X Here X Here X Here X There X Here X There X Here X There X There X There X There X There X There X There X There X There X X

Go Panhandle! Panther Pride!—Steve & LaZane Austin Go Panhandle Panthers & Ettes!—Steve & Vicky Barnard Best of Luck this season Panthers and Ettes!—Andy Jennifer & Athan Phillips Go Ettes!—Mitch, Dana, Keslea & Kinlea Ford Good Luck Ettes!—Tim & Shauna Herbert Go Panthers and Ettes!—Jeramy & Debbie Jones Family Go Ettes and Panthers!—The Throgmortons

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Dec. 26-28 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Caprock Tournament Whataburger Tournament Childress Perryton Hereford Stratford Memphis Vega Highland Park Sanford-Fritch Wellington Clarendon Wheeler Memphis Highland Park Wellington Clarendon Wheeler Memphis Highland Park

Lubbock X Fort Worth Here X Here X There There X Here Here X Here There X There X Here X There X There X There X Here X There X Here X Here X Here X

X X X X X X X X X X X X

Have a Great Year Wesley!—Angela Clay Let’s Go Panhandle!—Chris & Joey Ray Best of Luck Panthers and Ettes!—The Cates Family Go Panthers and Ettes!—Cliff, Lana & Leland Gabel Go Panhandle!—The Bruce Beddingfield Family Tom, Jill, Mason, Maddox & Makenna Reynolds Good Luck Panhandle Basketball!—Tex & Leisa Phillips

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The Panhandle Pantherettes had plenty of offense to defeat Wellington in the 2019 Class 2A regional finals at South Plains College, winning 53-35 to advance to the state tournament. (Photo by Sheri Haynes)

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Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Fearless. Jos. 1:9 Play with heart Tatum! We love you!—Brian, Sandra, Shayla, Justin & Angela Have a great season Ettes!—Tye, Kelly & Katelyn Haney Good Luck!—Jody, Eadie & Jett Bradford Go Ettes!—Brandon, RaDona, Lexi, Kali & Harper Williams All the best to the Ettes this season!—Bobby Schmucker Go Panthers and Ettes!—Jackie Hill Go Ettes and Panthers!—The Shadid’s Go Panthers and Pantherettes!—4K Livestock Good Luck Ettes and Panthers!—The Moore Family Go Panhandle Basketball!—The Shagg, 301 Euclid Go Panthers and Ettes!—Cory, Kyla, Kaden & Colter Lynch

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Go Panthers! Go Ettes! Good Luck this season!—The Derik Hays Family Good Luck!—Coach, Kami, Emory & Graci We wish the Panthers and Ettes a great season!—First United Methodist Church, Panhandle Go Grace! We are so proud of you!—The Sims Family Hope you have a good year son. We love you!—The Mercer’s Go Panhandle Basketball! Have a great season!—The Vaughn’s Supporting those Cats and Ettes!—The McWhortors Nothin’ but Net! Go Panthers and Ettes!— Kayla Hammer Good Luck Panthers and Ettes! Have a great year Zach!—Love, Dad, Mom, Clayton & Tyler

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Lady Rockets set a school standard The Lady Rockets made some school history last season, reaching the regional finals for the first time. Wellington reeled off a superb 29-7 season. The 9-1 Lady Rockets were District 2-2A co-champions, splitting regular season meetings with co-champ Panhandle. Wellington whipped Sunray 55-19 in bidistrict, Farwell 59-35 in the area round, Gruver 48-44 in the regional quarterfinals and Forsan 65-30 in the regional semifinals. A third meeting with district rival Panhandle proved fatal as the Ettes prevailed 53-35 in the regional finals. Panhandle later lost in the Class 2A state semifinals. “We had a great year this past season. We had a group of kids that were not only talented but worked really hard,” Coach Chris Sumrall said. “The seniors we had are going to be sorely missed, but I think they helped lay the foundation for this year’s team.” Those seniors included the coach’s daughter, Savannah Sumrall, who was TGCA and TABC all-state, and Riley Sessions, TGCA all-state. Bailey Neeley and Nicole Holland also have moved on. However, Coach Sumrall has three returning starters. Kaylee Jo Neeley, younger sister of the graduated Bailey Neeley, is a 6-0 senior post who averaged 7 points and 4.4 rebounds last season in earning all-district and TABC all-region honors.

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Kaylee Neeley

Marlee Brown

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Sicily Sumrall

Tobi Davis

Kyla Kane, a 5-8 sophomore guard (7 ppg, 2.9 rpg), was the district’s newcomer of the year as a freshman. (Continued on next page)

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Kaylee Jo Neeley and Kane merit all-state consideration, according to their coach. The third returning starter is Sicily Sumrall, a 5-7 junior guard (5 ppg, 3 rpg). Sicily, the coach’s younger daughter, was all-district honorable mention last season. So were letter winners Marlee Brown and Tobi Davis. Brown, a 5-4 senior guard, posted 6 ppg, 2.4 rpg statistics last year. Davis, a 5-7 senior guard, logged 5 ppg. “We have four guards returning that have a lot of experience. That experience at the guard spot is really important when you get into those pressure-packed playoff games,” Coach Sumrall said. “I also think we have an outstanding post player in Kaylee Jo. Her presence should give us some much-needed balance offensively.” He is concerned about rebounding, the lack of which hindered the Lady Rockets in their regional loss to Panhandle last spring. Improving the rebounding, staying healthy and developing depth are the keys for a successful season, according to the coach. Sumrall is beginning his fifth season at Wellington. All four of his teams have made the playoffs and they’ve won 98 games and lost 33. The Lubbock Monterey High School and Hardin-Simmons University graduate coached at Garden City and Clyde before coming to Wellington. His career girls coaching is 475-196, a 708 winning percentage. Another successful season by the Lady Rockets could reward their coach with his 500th career victory in 2020. That season begins with road games at Spearman (Nov. 12), Bushland and Canadian, all tough opponents. The Lady Rockets will play in the Frenship, Vernon and Canadian tournaments. District play gets under way Jan.12. BOYS The Skyrockets reached the regional finals, too, but the big news around the boys program is the retirement of a veteran coach and the return of a native son to take over. Quenton Patterson returns to his alma mater after spending two years at Jim Ned High as an assistant and four years at Hico as the head boys coach. The Hardin-Simmons University graduate owns a 42-73 boys coaching record. Patterson succeeds longtime Coach Tim Webb, who coached the Skyrockets a total of 14 years in two different stints, including the past 12 years. He also coached in Canyon. His 20-year

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John Holcomb

Name Jaden Combs John Holcomb Creed Riley Jaden Costillo Kameron Harris Adrian Orozco Creighton Killian Mason Folk Grant Fields Rowdy Duncan Jordan Nation

Jayden Combs

Creed Riley

Wellington Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-1 G Sr. 6-4 P Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-2 P Sr. 6-0 P Sr. 5-10 G Soph. 5-11 P Jr. 6-0 P Sr. 5-11 P Sr. 6-2 P Fr.

Coach: Quenton Patterson Asst. Coach: Mark Montgomery 2018-2019 record: 25-6, 8-2 School phone: 447-3147 Players to watch: Jaden Combs, John Holcomb, Creed Riley, Jaden Costillo, Kameron Harris, Creighton Killian coaching career featured 392 wins and 192 losses. Last April, Webb resigned as Wellington’s basketball coach and junior high principal, according to The Red River Sun, and accepted a position at nearby Hollis, Oklahoma, High School as the boys basketball coach. He also will teach. Webb’s last Wellington team went 25-6 overall. The Skyrockets posted an 8-2 District 2-2A record, finishing second last year. In the playoffs, Wellington defeated Sanford-Fritch 55-36 in bidistrict, Farwell 52-40 in the area game, New Deal 66-46 in the regional quarterfinals and Tahoka 44-38 in the regional semifinals. The Skyrockets lost to state 2A finalist Gruver 44-26 in the regional finals. “Last season’s team finished second in district but really got (Continued on next page)

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rolling in the playoffs, all the way to the regional finals, behind a strong senior class,” new Coach Patterson said. That senior class was represented by eight players on last year’s roster, and three of them — Seven Wilbur, Arturo Tellez and JoJo McKnight — earned all-district honors. Wilbur also made the Amarillo Globe-News Golden Spread 2A team. One all-district player returns this season. John Holcomb, a 6-4 senior post, is the lone returning starter. Patterson picks Holcomb and 6-1 senior guard Jaden Combs as all-state candidates. Holcomb and Combs are two of the team’s four returning letter winners. “Jaden Combs and John Holcomb will be leaders of this team and leaned on to get this team going in the right direction,” Patterson said. Another letter winner, 5-10 senior guard Creed Riley, is a player to watch. So are 5-10 junior guard Jaden Costillo, 6-2 senior post Kameron Harris and 5-10 sophomore guard Creighton Killian, according to Patterson. “Expect players like Riley, Killian, Costillo and Harris to catch on quickly and have the Skyrockets headed towards another successful season,” Patterson said. He lists speed, plenty of ball handlers and size as the Skyrockets’ strengths. His main concern centers on the team adapting to a new system and new coach. “It’s going to be all about when we get started (because of football) and how fast we can get on the same page with a new head coach,” Patterson said. “If all goes well and as planned, this team has a lot of potential to be a great team.” Because of that football involvement, the Skyrockets may not open the season until the Dec. 5-7 Vernon Tournament. They’ll later play in the Anson event. The Skyrockets’ first district game is scheduled for Jan. 17.

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Jaden Costillo

Kameron Harris

Creighton Killian

Wellington Super Boosters Julie, Jeffery and Jaxon Collins Luke, Amy, Lawson, Ava Kate and Jack Inman Kevin, Cathy Needham and Wade, Hadlee and Liam Jimmy and Odilia Cantu Rusty, Alison, Blake, Caleb and Rachel Strickland Daryon, Shannon, Nathan, Marlee and Major Brown Marie White Marty and Kathy Warrick Christy, Con, Cal and Claire Kane Colby, Carol, Calleigh, Cora and Charleigh Henard Andy and Delta Henard Tucker, Jordan and Kellyn Conner Brandon, Carly, Berkeley and Blair Ward Pat and Val White Craig, Tracey, Elli, Carter and Miles Ouellette Baron, Lana, Trey, Travis and Maggie Tillman Gary, Amanda, Dallten and Tobi Davis Janelle and Shanee Popwell Jerry Dan, Penny, Macy, Cassidy and Jalee Davis

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Name Kaylee Jo Neeley Kyla Kane Marlee Brown Tobi Davis Sicily Sumrall Jasmine Cruz Kimber Bawcom Hadlee Gomez Ellee Reeves Jayla Kilgore Emma Kane

Wellington Girls Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 P Sr. 5-8 G Soph. 5-4 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-9 P Sr. 5-5 P Sr. 5-5 G Soph. 5-4 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 6-0 P Jr.

Coach: Chris Sumrall Asst. Coaches: Shelby Jameson, Shannon Brown 2018-2019 record: 29-7, 9-1 School phone: 447-3172 Players to watch: Kaylee Jo Neeley, Kyla Kane

Tanner, Kendra, Hunter and Halle Hedrick Mark, Haley and Blake Lemons Anne Langford Jon, Marcy, Reed and Riley Sessions Brent, Janie, Rowdy and Allie Duncan Kirk and June Clay Danny Davis Paul and Renee Hanna Leamon and Nell Bawcom Maxie and Cheryl Tarver Nicky and Mitzi Watts Jason, Jill, Brice and Dixon Dugan Janice Downs Betty Tipton and Patsye Dodge and Nancy Ellis Jake Lucas Arnie and Janee Ingram Lance, Deidre, Kyla, Presley, Taytum and Kaesyn Kane Toby, Tiffany, Korbyn and Carson Tarver

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Juda, Destine, Nation, Zach, Kisha and Londyn Lechner Jonathan, Sandie, Creighton, Ceighly and Cix Killian Carl and Jeanne Taylor Jason, Megan, Carvin, Easton and Holden Wishkaemper Henry, Beatriz, Enrique, Elvis and Elias Jaimes Cody, Kim, Barret and Bryn Phillips Brad and Ashley Long Jeff, Colby, Jax and Jake Anderson Megan, Jorgia, Maverick and Gia O’Rear Joe, Bonnie, Jacey and Josey Clark Micha, Bryant and Braylon Tarver George and Kathy Brewer Matthew, Shari, Perrie and Quaid Reyna Henry, Maria, Lindsay and Summer Neufeld Dicky and Holly Johnson Justin, Payton, Kenna and Jace Darrow Pepe and Carrie Martinez, Gavin and Kaycee Henry, Amanda, Treylea, Trevyn and Tylee Wiebe Jermaine, Ashly, Noah, Jax, Collier and Callahan Cantu Donna and Eddie Maxwell Shelby Jameson Linda, Chance, Courtney, Cole W., Clay and Jayden Castillo Patrick, Kristi, Hadlee and Harlee Gomez Rafael, Maria, Felicia and Lorena Granados Maricia Moreno, Josseline, Fabian, Jasmin

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Gene, Noemi, Arianna, Eliya, Natalaya and Seveyah Pena Danny and Judy Wishkaemper Coach Sumrall Rachelle, Savannah and Sicily Neal White Tim, Gina and Royce Harris Chad Holland Real Estate Tammy and Creed Riley, Farris Nation Drew, Chandi and Kenzlea Taylor Nandy, Jake and Libby Chandler Debbie Henard Sharon, Brooke, Kenny and Abby Patterson Jared, Robin, Coyt and Colt Patterson Joel, Kimi, Walker and Maci Copeland Ricky, Cecilia, Adrian and Alex Orozco Lynn and Diana Bartlett Benton and Ann Wauer Danny and Shannon West Eddie and Sheryl Orr Kerry and Melissa Barlow Karen Caldwell Ambrose Dental, Shillalie jones RDH Bartlett’s Lumber First United Methodist Church Forrest and Cindy Lloyd Devin and Jessica Ballard Dannie and Teri Morris Tony, Debbie, Sonny and Destiny Cox Ben and John Michael Holcomb Kurt, Karoline and Kamri Ashmore Redgie and Dian Souder Marlene, Jose and Bridget Jantes Lanna and Rodney Reeves Sambo and Melanie McLain

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 26 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 13 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-29 Dec. 27-28 Jan. 6 Jan. 10 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 25 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Wellington Schedule

Opponent Spearman Bushland Canadian Frenship Tournament Pampa Vernon Tournament Happy Palo Duro Dumas Childress Canadian Tournament Anson Tournament Borger Clarendon Panhandle Highland Park Memphis Wheeler Clarendon Panhandle Highland Park Clarendon Wheeler

Place B G There X There X There X There X Here X There X X There X There X Here X Here X There X There X There X Here X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X Here X There X

Benson and Betty Long Erin, Sawyer, Sutton and Makenzie Smith Renee Mathis Wade and Diann Williams Martha Cantu Johnny and Karen Holton Ricky and Mary Lou Brown David and Kellye Conner Levi, Brooke and Hayes Carter Lidia and Anastacio Morales Claudio Morales Hugo, Miriam, Jasmin, Valeria and Ivan Cruz Parkview Manor Alfredo and Raquel Cruz Kevin and Eva Hamby Steve and Teresa Kane Mark and Ranee Fourmentin Josh and Carrie Wright

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Janee and Arnie Ingram Brother, Denise, Abby and Tiny Garcia David and Kathy Marak Gary and Toni Wright Rick and Alicia Parks and Courtlyn McKinley Charlie and Katy Taylor Lee, Karlon, Lane and Kason Brandon Mark and Renessa Klink Steve, Lucy, Madi and Summer Owens Larry, Teresa, Regan, Kayden and Ashton Valles Kirk Patterson The Neeley Family Bawcom Farms Collingsworth County Constable—Ronnie Ward Brad, Kelly, Kimber, Kaitlin and Kendra Linda Neeley (Ninny) Rosa Carter Gay McAlister Robert, Czrena, Lee and Ashley Watts Harry and Doris Stallings, Jayden and Kenzi Ballinger Maria Avalos Lee and Tina Souder Tony and Suzanne Maxwell Mark and Debbie Huntress Kirby Campbell Sharon Starkey Glenn and Irma Thomas Clint Thomas Darrell Colson Photography Collingsworth County 4-H Geronimo, Shelly and Brayson Molina Charles, Brittany, Hoyt and Halle Warren

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Troy and Kay Thomason Kaleb and Jessica, Dalton and Nicole Justin and Darcy Baker Tom and Vera Huntress Carroll’s Flowers and Gifts Kenneth, Carrie and Cameron Warren Jerry Dan and Penny Davis Barry Long and Family Billy, Donnie and Carly Carter Jay and Holly Statham Miss Judy Angel’s Subs and Sweets Jason, Becky, Gracie and Jacy Lampe, Presley and Allie Ridley Dale and Sherrie Dunlap Brian, Marnie, Emma and Madeleine Kane Norma Spillman Larry and Debbie Kane The Darrows Michael, D’Nae and Ashley Souder Dakota Marshall Luke, Amanda, Carson and Hartley Kane Julie, Jeffery and Jaxon Collins Luke, Amy, Lawson, Ava Kate and Jack Inman Kevin, Cathy Needham and Wade, Hadlee and Liam Jimmy and Odilia Cantu Rusty, Alison, Blake, Caleb and Rachel Strickland Daryon, Shannon, Nathan, Marlee and Major Brown Marie White Marty and Kathy Warrick Christy, Con, Cal and Claire Kane

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Colby, Carol, Calleigh, Cora and Charleigh Henard Andy and Delta Henard Tucker, Jordan and Kellyn Conner Brandon, Carly, Berkeley and Blair Ward Pat and Val White Craig, Tracey, Elli, Carter and Miles Ouellette Baron, Lana, Trey, Travis and Maggie Tillman Gary, Amanda, Dallten and Tobi Davis Janelle and Shanee Popwell Jerry Dan, Penny, Macy, Cassidy and Jalee Davis Tanner, Kendra, Hunter and Halle Hedrick Mark, Haley and Blake Lemons Anne Langford Jon, Marcy, Reed and Riley Sessions Brent, Janie, Rowdy and Allie Duncan Kirk and June Clay Danny Davis Paul and Renee Hanna Leamon and Nell Bawcom Maxie and Cheryl Tarver Nicky and Mitzi Watts Jason, Jill, Brice and Dixon Dugan Janice Downs Betty Tipton and Patsye Dodge and Nancy Ellis Jake Lucas Arnie and Janee Ingram Lance, Deidre, Kyla, Presley, Taytum and Kaesyn Kane Toby, Tiffany, Korbyn and Carson Tarver Juda, Destine, Nation, Zach, Kisha and Londyn Lechner Jonathan, Sandie, Creighton, Ceighly and Cix Killian

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Carl and Jeanne Taylor Jason, Megan, Carvin, Easton and Holden Wishkaemper Henry, Beatriz, Enrique, Elvis and Elias Jaimes Cody, Kim, Barret and Bryn Phillips Brad and Ashley Long Jeff, Colby, Jax and Jake Anderson Megan, Jorgia, Maverick and Gia O’Rear Joe, Bonnie, Jacey and Josey Clark Micha, Bryant and Braylon Tarver George and Kathy Brewer Matthew, Shari, Perrie and Quaid Reyna Henry, Maria, Lindsay and Summer Neufeld Dicky and Holly Johnson Justin, Payton, Kenna and Jace Darrow Pepe and Carrie Martinez, Gavin and Kaycee Henry, Amanda, Treylea, Trevyn and Tylee Wiebe Jermaine, Ashly, Noah, Jax, Collier and Callahan Cantu Donna and Eddie Maxwell Shelby Jameson Linda, Chance, Courtney, Cole W., Clay and Jayden Castillo Patrick, Kristi, Hadlee and Harlee Gomez Rafael, Maria, Felicia and Lorena Granados Maricia Moreno, Josseline, Fabian, Jasmin Gene, Noemi, Arianna, Eliya, Natalaya and Seveyah Pena Danny and Judy Wishkaemper Coach Sumrall Rachelle, Savannah and Sicily

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Neal White Tim, Gina and Royce Harris Chad Holland Real Estate Tammy and Creed Riley, Farris Nation Drew, Chandi and Kenzlea Taylor Nandy, Jake and Libby Chandler Debbie Henard Sharon, Brooke, Kenny and Abby Patterson Jared, Robin, Coyt and Colt Patterson Joel, Kimi, Walker and Maci Copeland Ricky, Cecilia, Adrian and Alex Orozco Lynn and Diana Bartlett Benton and Ann Wauer Danny and Shannon West Eddie and Sheryl Orr Kerry and Melissa Barlow Karen Caldwell Ambrose Dental, Shillalie jones RDH Bartlett’s Lumber First United Methodist Church Forrest and Cindy Lloyd Devin and Jessica Ballard Dannie and Teri Morris Tony, Debbie, Sonny and Destiny Cox Ben and John Michael Holcomb Kurt, Karoline and Kamri Ashmore Redgie and Dian Souder Marlene, Jose and Bridget Jantes Lanna and Rodney Reeves

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Sambo and Melanie McLain Benson and Betty Long Erin, Sawyer, Sutton and Makenzie Smith Renee Mathis Wade and Diann Williams Martha Cantu Johnny and Karen Holton Ricky and Mary Lou Brown David and Kellye Conner Levi, Brooke and Hayes Carter Lidia and Anastacio Morales Claudio Morales Hugo, Miriam, Jasmin, Valeria and Ivan Cruz Parkview Manor Alfredo and Raquel Cruz Kevin and Eva Hamby Steve and Teresa Kane Mark and Ranee Fourmentin Josh and Carrie Wright Janee and Arnie Ingram Brother, Denise, Abby and Tiny Garcia David and Kathy Marak Gary and Toni Wright Rick and Alicia Parks and Courtlyn McKinley Charlie and Katy Taylor Lee, Karlon, Lane and Kason Brandon Mark and Renessa Klink Steve, Lucy, Madi and Summer Owens Larry, Teresa, Regan, Kayden and Ashton Valles Kirk Patterson The Neeley Family Bawcom Farms

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Collingsworth County Constable—Ronnie Ward Brad, Kelly, Kimber, Kaitlin and Kendra Linda Neeley (Ninny) Rosa Carter Gay McAlister Robert, Czrena, Lee and Ashley Watts Harry and Doris Stallings, Jayden and Kenzi Ballinger Maria Avalos Lee and Tina Souder Tony and Suzanne Maxwell Mark and Debbie Huntress Kirby Campbell Sharon Starkey Glenn and Irma Thomas Clint Thomas Darrell Colson Photography Collingsworth County 4-H Geronimo, Shelly and Brayson Molina Charles, Brittany, Hoyt and Halle Warren Troy and Kay Thomason Kaleb and Jessica, Dalton and Nicole Justin and Darcy Baker Tom and Vera Huntress Carroll’s Flowers and Gifts Kenneth, Carrie and Cameron Warren Jerry Dan and Penny Davis Barry Long and Family Billy, Donnie and Carly Carter Jay and Holly Statham Miss Judy Angel’s Subs and Sweets Jason, Becky, Gracie and Jacy Lampe, Presley and Allie Ridley Dale and Sherrie Dunlap Brian, Marnie, Emma and Madeleine Kane Norma Spillman Larry and Debbie Kane The Darrows Michael, D’Nae and Ashley Souder Dakota Marshall Luke, Amanda, Carson and Hartley Kane

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The Wellington Lady Rockets play defense against Panhandle in the 2019 regional finals at South Plains College in Levelland. Wellington and Panhandle split their District 2-2A games, but the Pantherettes prevailed at regional. (Photo by Sheri Haynes)

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Wheeler

Ex-Canadian star takes Mustang reins The Mustangs have a new coach, but he’s not new to the area. Boston Hudson was a standout basketball player under the tutelage of his dad, Johnny Hudson, at Canadian High School. As a junior, Boston Hudson was the district player of the year and was the Amarillo Glove-News 2A/3A player of the year. He also was selected as a wide receiver on the 2012 AGN Super Team in football. And he appeared on the cover of the 2013-14 PPB magazine as well as being a member of that year’s preseason Super Team. After his senior year, the Hudsons moved to Barbers Hill as Johnny Hudson took the boys coaching job there. Johnny Hudson later coached at Gruver and now is teaching in New Mexico. Boston Hudson, a graduate of West Texas A&M University, was an assistant at Oklahoma City University last year. This will be his first head coaching assignment. Boston Hudson succeeds Sonny Calhoun, who coached the Mustangs to a 58-34 record in three years. Calhoun moved to Vega, where he is the boys coach. Calhoun’s last Wheeler team was his best. The 2018-19 Mustangs won District 2-2A with a 9-1 record. They defeated Sunray 69-64 in bidistrict and Post 63-50 in the area game. They were stopped by Gruver 56-48 in the regional quarterfinals. Gruver went on to the state 2A championship game.

Brady Bailey

Gustavo Andrade

Alex Davis

There were five seniors on that 26-6 Wheeler team of last season. But perhaps the biggest departure was Austin Calhoun, the district MVP as a junior. Austin Calhoun moved to Vega with his father. Boston Hudson has a pair of standout returnees in Brady Bailey and Gustavo Andrade. Bailey, a 6-2 senior guard, was the district offensive MVP. Andrade, a 5-11 senior guard, was on the all-district team. Both are all-state candidates, according to their coach. The Mustangs have four seniors and six juniors on their roster. Wheeler’s boys will open their season Dec. 3 at home against Fritch. The Mustangs will play in the Miami, West Texas High (Continued on next page)

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and Canadian tournaments. They’ll begin district play Jan. 17. GIRLS This could be the year the Lady Stangs turn it around. Wheeler has had three losing seasons under Coach Camden Dorris but showed Katya Babylon signs of life last year. The Lady Stangs went 11-17 overall and 2-9 in District 2-2A, tying for sixth place. However, those two wins represent the first two district victories for Wheeler in the Dorris years. “Continued with a really young team with arguably the best district in the state,” Dorris said. “Improved from the past two seasons, recording some district wins.” The real turnaround could come this season. The Lady Stangs had only two seniors on last year’s roster and return all five starters, including two all-district players. Katya Baylon, a 5-10 junior guard, and Wendy Lopez, a 5-8 junior post, earned those district recognitions last season as sophomores. The other returning starters are 5-6 senior guard Julia Andrade, 5-1 senior point guard Valeria Tintori and 5-8 junior post/guard Perla Almanza. Almanza is an outstanding player to watch, according to her coach. In addition, three other letter winners — 5-5 senior guard Jasmine Mitchell, 5-8 junior post Hope Adkins and 5-5 senior guard Daisy Duenez — return. “Return a strong class of juniors who have been asked to play

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Wendy Lopez

Julia Andrade

Valeria Tintori

at the varsity level since they were freshmen. We expect much improvement that we have worked hard to build on,” Dorris said. “Experience will help in something we have been lacking. Our district remains tough. We hope to break the cycle and have a playoff berth.” Along those lines, Dorris outlined the keys for success as: “We have to continue on what we have built. We have to be able to play physical and hard-nosed in a continued tough district.” Dorris is a graduate of Canadian High School and Midwestern State University. Entering his fourth season at Wheeler, his Lady Stangs have won 29 and lost 41 games.

Wheeler Super Boosters Justin and Sandy Rose Go Lady Stangs and Mustangs!—The Hibler Family Good Luck Mustangs!—Cecil & Kathy Thomas

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Name Gustavo Andrade Hesston Marshall Brady Bailey Alex Davis Kyle Dawson Edwin Gaucin David Rascon Daniel Rascon Marcos Herrera Diego Pichardo

Wheeler Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-11 G Sr. 5-11 F Jr. 6-2 G Sr. 6-3 F Sr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-9 F Jr. 5-9 F Jr. 5-6 G Jr. 6-1 F Jr.

Edwin Gaucin

Coach: Boston Hudson Asst. Coaches: Danny Brittain, Josh Britt 2018-2019 record: 26-6, 9-1 School phone: 826-5241 Players to watch: Brady Bailey, Gustavo Andrade

Hesston Marshall

Marcos Herrera

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Kyle Dawson

Diego Pichardo

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Name Julia Andrade Rhaelee Adams Jasmine Mitchell Hope Adkins Valeria Tintori Daisy Duenez Katya Baylon Wendy Lopez Perla Almanza Selena Lopez

Wheeler Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 5-2 G Soph. 5-5 G Sr. 5-8 P Jr. 5-1 G Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-8 P Jr. 5-8 P/G Jr. 5-7 P/G Soph.

Hope Adkins

Perla Almanza Jasmine Mitchell

Coach: Camden Dorris Asst. Coaches: Sarah Pool, Juan Luna 2018-2019 record: 11-17, 2-9 School phone: 826-5241 Player to watch: Perla Almanza

Rhaelee Adams Daisy Duenez

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Selena Lopez

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DATE Nov. 8 Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Wheeler Schedule

Opponent Follett Borger Canadian Fort Elliott Booker Fritch Miami Tournament Shamrock Fort Elliott Tournament West Texas Tournament West Texas Erick Canadian Tournament Dumas Fort Elliott McLean Pampa Highland Park Gruver Paducah Wellington Clarendon Memphis Panhandle Highland Park Wellington Clarendon Memphis Panhandle Highland Park Wellington

Place B G There X Here X Here X There X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X There X There X X Here X X There X Here X Here X There X There X X Here X There X There X There X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X Here X There X

Good Luck Mustangs and Lady Stangs!— The Hendersons Proud of our Mustangs!—Jenny, Jazmyn, Jozlyn Estrada

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Olton

District 3-2A Mustangs had roller-coaster ride

Coach Bobby Workman’s first year as the Mustangs’ mentor had its ups and downs. The Mustangs lost four of their first six games before winning nine of 11 games. They placed third in the Littlefield Wildcat Classic in late December. They finished third in District 3-2A with a 5-3 record but lost their bidistrict playoff game to Floydada 66-49. That capped a 19-11 campaign for Olton. “Our season started a bit slow as we adjusted to each other in my first year at Olton,” Workman said. “By the Christmas break, our guys really started finding ways to win games. The Littlefield tournament was a huge boost for our confidence as we played 3A and 4A teams and finished third. “We played well throughout the first part of district and controlled our own destiny going into the last two games of the district schedule. Unfortunately, we didn’t close out the season

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as strongly as we had planned and ended up third in the district.” Two first-team all-district selections — Nabor Canchola and Jayden Leathers — along with Noah Garza (district all-defensive team), Nate Zamora (AD honorable mention) and Samuel Vega have departed from that team. That leaves Workman with one honored player heading into this season. Jack Allcorn, a 5-10 junior forward, was first-team all-district last season. Workman recommends Allcorn, 6-1 junior forward Bryson Ramage and 6-1 senior post/forward Brian Capen as all-state candidates. Drew Garza, a 5-9 senior guard, is another player to watch. The Mustangs’ roster features four seniors and four juniors. Workman tabs experience and athleticism as Olton’s strengths. (Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page)

He is concerned about the team’s depth. “This year will depend on how well we develop as a unit in the non-district schedule,” he said, “and how well we can value possessions on both ends of the floor.” Workman is coaching at his high school alma mater. The Texas Tech University graduate coached at Hale Center before moving to Olton. He owns a 64-52 career boys coaching record. The Mustangs will open their season Nov. 16 at home against Sundown. They’ll play in the Nazareth, Lockney and Littlefield tournaments. District 3-2A play begins Jan. 10. GIRLS Kyle Johnson’s first year as an Olton coach didn’t go as well as his boys counterpart. The Fillies went 3-26 overall and failed to win a District 3-2A game in eight starts, finishing last. Three honored players have departed from that team. Mackenzie Olivarez was all-district; Natalie Hinojosa was on the district all-defensive team; and Leslie Pedroza was AD honorable mention. Two starters and six other letter winners return for the Fillies, who have experience in the post position. Senior posts (5-9) Breely Huguley and (5-11) Alexis Lively both started last season. The Fillies’ roster shows five seniors, one junior and three sophomores. The sophomores — 5-7 post Karla Arriola, 5-3 guard Shaylee Leathers and 5-4 guard Celestte Ramirez — all lettered last year. “We have a good mix of older and younger players,” Johnson said. “A little bit of program continuity.” He is concerned about offensive production.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jack Allcorn

Bryson Ramage

Brian Capen

“Keys to success this year will be team chemistry, player leadership and improved offensive production,” he said. Johnson is a graduate of Jenks, Oklahoma, High School and Oklahoma Baptist University. He has 11 years of experience as a head basketball coach. His previous stops were at the Hawaii Baptist Academy in Honolulu, Amarillo’s Ascension Academy and Amarillo’s Arbor Christian Academy. The Fillies’ opener is Nov. 8 at Plainview. Their home debut is set for Nov. 12 versus Wildorado. They’ll play in the same tourneys (Nazareth, Lockney and Littlefield) as the Mustangs. District play also begins Jan.10.

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Breely Huguley

DATE Nov. 8 Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 30

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Olton Schedule

Opponent PCA Wildorado Sundown Muleshoe San Jacinto Christian Floydada Morton Nazareth Tournament Plains Lockney Tournament Boys Ranch Petersburg Littlefield Tournament Lockney

Kailey Acker

Place B G There X Here X Here X Here X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X

Carolyne Sullivan Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Savannah Valdez

Seagraves Springlake-Earth Farwell Meadow Vega Tahoka Lubbock Titans Bovina Sudan Farwell Vega Bovina Sudan Farwell Vega

Meredy Rodriguez Here X Here X There Here X Here Here X Here X There X Here X Here X There X Here X There X There X Here X

X X X X X X X X X X X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Ty Struve Israel Santillan Bryson Ramage Kailan Muse Drew Garza Jack Allcorn Brian Capen Alberto Dorantes Aldo Vasquez

Olton Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-7 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 6-1 F Jr. 6-2 P Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-10 F Jr. 6-1 F/P Sr. 6-2 P Sr. 5-9 G Jr.

Drew Garza

Kailan Muse

Alberto Dorantes

Coach: Bobby Workman Asst. Coaches: Reyes Garza, Myles James, Jonathon Bullard 2018-2019 record: 19-11, 5-3 School phone: 285-2641 Players to watch: Jack Allcorn, Brian Capen, Bryson Ramage, Drew Garza

Olton Super Boosters Go Mustangs & Fillies!—Angi & Terry Martin Keeley and Kelly Adams Good Luck for the 2019-2020 Season!— Dona & Bill Go Mustangs and Fillies!—Rodney & Nikki Smith Go Mustangs and Fillies!—The Olton Enterprise Earn the right to be a winner!—The Ammons Family

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Israel Santillan

Aldo Vasquez

Way to Go Shaylee!—The Jason Johnson Family Go Mustangs and Fillies! Have a Great Season!—Dale, Jess, Zayden & Lyla Falcon Good Luck Brian!—Love, Mom Wishing you a great season Jake!—Love you, Mom & Dad Michael & Stacie Ramage

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Name Kailey Acker Breely Huguley Alexis Lively Carolyne Sullivan Savannah Valdez Jasmine Reyna Karla Arriola Shaylee Leathers Celestte Ramirez

Olton Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 5-9 P Sr. 5-11 P Sr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-1 G Sr. 5-0 G Jr. 5-7 P Soph. 5-3 G Soph. 5-4 G Soph.

Coach: Kyle Johnson Asst. Coaches: Lee Ortiz, Ruth Beelitz 2018-2019 record: 3-26, 0-8 School phone: 285-2641

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Fleurish Flowers & Gifts Wilma’s Kitchen Ella Rejino Alivia Rejino Regino Barbecue Good Luck Mustangs & Fillies!—Nena’s Place, 609 8th Street, Olton, TX Ibarra Family wishes the Fillies and Mustangs a Great Season!—Ibarra Trucking, 2308 W. 10th, Plainview, TX The Cabrera Family Trucking “Cheer Karla” AD & C Trucking, P.O. Box 764 Wishes the Fillies and Mustangs a Great Season!

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Olton Sudan

Nettes ready to resume high standards The Nettes had an “off” season last year, at least by their standards. After five straight 20-plus win seasons, Sudan dropped to 1512, still a winning season. The Nettes went 4-4 in District 3-2A, finishing third. So, as usual, they qualified for the playoffs. Lockney eliminated the Nettes 49-46 in bidistrict. Brianna Wallace, Lauren Johnson and Payton Tolbert Emma Herrera were listed as seniors on last year’s roster. Sudan has a lot of firepower coming back as four starters return. Liz Sital, a 5-7 sophomore post, was the district newcomer of the year last season. Payton Tolbert, a 5-7 senior post, was on the district’s all-defensive team, and Zoey Cantu, a 5-4 junior guard, was all-district. Kamryn Goen, a 5-6 senior guard, also started last season. And there’s more. Stevi Lockhart, a 5-10 freshman guard, is regarded as an all-state candidate by her coach. She is the coach’s daughter.

Name Payton Tolbert Kamryn Goen Callan Netherland Mildred Medrano Zoey Cantu Liz Sital Heidi Pinion Stevi Lockhart Gracyn Shultz Braelyn Pointer

Sudan Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-7 P Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-6 P Sr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-7 P Soph. 5-9 G Soph. 5-10 G Fr. 5-7 G Fr. 5-5 G Fr.

Coach: Benny Lockhart Asst. Coaches: Daniel Gutierrez, Kylee Shultz 2018-2019 record: 15-12, 4-4 School phone: 227-3421 Players to watch: Liz Sital, Stevi Lockhart, Gracyn Shultz 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Zoey Cantu

Liz Sital

Kamryn Goen

Another freshman, 5-7 guard Gracyn Shultz, is an additional player to watch. The Nettes will be young this season with two sophomores and three freshmen expected to play key roles. That youth is a concern for Coach Lockhart. “Chemistry between older players and younger players” will be the key for success this season, he said. He cites athleticism as the Nettes’ strength. Lockhart should reach an important milestone this season — his 400th career girls coaching victory. He enters the season with a 394-195 record over a 23-year career. He coached at Merkel and Roby before coming to Sudan. He’s beginning his seventh season as the Nettes’ mentor. Lockhart is a graduate of Sundown High School and Angelo State University. The Nettes’ season opener will be a home date against Smyer on Nov. 9. They’ll play in the Abernathy, Anton and Whitharral tournaments, District 3-2A play begins Jan. 10. BOYS It was a rocky first year for Coach Rocky Winn and his Hornets. But the ride was much smoother in Year 2. Sudan bounced back from a 2-26 (0-10 in district) 2017-18 season with a much-improved 9-18 (2-6) showing last season. And their fourth-place finish in the five-team District 3-2A earned the Hornets a berth in the playoffs. They lost their bidistrict game to New Deal 62-44. (Continued on next page)

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“We made the playoffs for the first time in five years. That was huge for us to turn this program around,” Winn said. “The kids got better every game. We lost a couple of district games that we should’ve won, but the guys fought to make the playoffs.” The Hornets had three seniors — Chris Schovajsa, Ruben Rodriguez and Isaiah Montes — listed on last year’s roster. Still, they’ll have some returning experience with five seniors, three of whom started last year, on this year’s squad. The three returning senior starters are 5-9 Parker Battin, 5-9 Alex Conley and 5-8 Christian Montes. Two others — 5-8 Josh Leal and 5-7 Beto Mendoza — round out the senior contingent. Battin, Christian Montes and Leal are outstanding players to watch, according to their coach. “Experience would be our biggest strength. We don’t have to hold hands when we cross the street anymore,” Winn said. “Four of them (seniors) were on the varsity last year. Parker Battin and Christian Montes have been starting since their sophomore year. Alex Conley and Josh Leal were on varsity as well since their sophomore year. Our team chemistry is good! We had good team camps and summer league, in which we competed well.” His biggest concern is the lack of size, which hurts the Hornets on the boards. There are no 6-footers on the team. “We have to start the season right where we left off. We can’t afford to take any steps backward,” Winn said. “We have to cut down on our turnovers. We had way too many per game last year. Also, we have to limit our opponents’ second-chance points. This is a result of our lack of size. But we make no excuses!” Winn is beginning his third season at Sudan and 18th season

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Parker Battin

Josh Leal

Alex Conley

Christian Montes

Beto Mendoza

in coaching. The Texas Tech University graduate previously coached at Spur, Borden County, Southland, Sanford-Fritch, Eastland and Amarillo Bonham Middle School. Coincidentally, Winn and girls Coach Benny Lockhart share some similarities. Both are graduates of Sundown High School. And while Lockhart has a daughter playing on his team, Winn has a stepson (Parker Battin) playing for him. The Hornets will entertain Ropes in their season opener Nov. 19. They’ll participate in the Anton, Whitharral and Littlefield tourneys. District play for the boys begins Jan.17.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Stevi Lockhart

Gracyn Shultz

Callan Netherland

Sudan Super Boosters Go Hornets!—Vince Montes & Family Go Hornets and Nettes!!—Sudan RV ParkMart & Lori Davison

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Mildred Medrano

Heidi Pinon

Braelyn Pointer

We wish the Nettes a great season! Go Braelyn!—MawMaw & Bop Bop We wish the Hornets and Nettes a great season!—Carr Cattle

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Name Parker Battin Alex Conley Josh Leal Michael Limon Beto Mendoza Christian Montes Rustin Penrod

Sudan Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-9 G Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-6 G Soph. 5-7 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-7 G Jr.

Coach: Rocky Winn Asst. Coaches: Aaron Ledbetter, Ray Parmer 2018-2019 record: 9-18, 1-9 School phone: 227-2731 Players to watch: Parker Battin, Josh Leal, Christian Montes

Go Hornets and Nettes!—Jeff, Jennifer, Kaegan, Kyndal & Kooper Edwards Go Hornets and Nettes !—The Pierce Family We love the Nettes!—Bruce & Sherry Pierce Go Hornets and Nettes!—Roy & Barb Willingham Go Hornettes and Hornets!—Darren & Tracey Provence We love the Hornets and Nettes!—Joe & Shawnda Martin Go Sudan!—Mike & Patsy Fisher Go Hornets!—Coach & Wendy Swarb We Love the Nettes!—The Lloyd Family

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

It’s a great day to be a Hornet! Go Sudan!— Tim, Sharla & Emma Rich Go Black and Gold!—DJ, Lisa, Dylan, Kyndal & Kinley Provence We wish the Sudan Hornets a great season!—Belle’s Barbershop We wish the Nettes a great season! We love you Stevi!—The Lockhart Family Go Sydney!—The Cornelius Family Good luck Nettes! Hope you have a great season!—Joe & Lisa Gonzales Good luck Landree! Hope you have a great season!—Papa & Mark

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DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 16 Dec. 19 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 30 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

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Sudan Schedule

Opponent Smyer Seagraves Dimmitt Ropes Abernathy Tournament Plains Sundown Anton Tournament Lockney Whitharral Tournament Plains Morton Littlefield Tournament Sands New Home Hale Center Bovina Wellman Farwell Vega Olton Bovina Farwell Vega Olton Bovina

Place B G There X There X Here X Here X X There X There X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X There X X Here X X Here X X Here X Here X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X

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Sudan Vega

All good for Lady Horns until last chapter It was a storybook season – until the end. The Lady Longhorns won their first 29 games and were rated No. 5 in the state Class 2A rankings. They swept the Vega, White Deer and Anson tournaments for the second straight year. The unbeaten streak ended Jan. 18 with a 44-38 defeat at district foe Farwell. But Vega avenged that defeat with a one-point win over Farwell in the regular season finale. That enabled the Lady Longhorns to share the District 3-2A title with Farwell, both with 7-1 records. In the playoffs, Vega defeated Floydada 51-22 in bidistrict. But the season came to a sudden stop with a 62-39 loss to eventual state semifinalist Panhandle in the area round. So it was a 34-2 season for Coach Randy Henderson in his second year at Vega. In his first season, the Lady Longhorns went 32-4 and reached the regional quarterfinals. That’s 66-6 for two seasons, a .917 winning percentage. That’s even better than Henderson’s career winning percentage of .791, reflecting a 443-117 career girls coaching mark. The Kerens (Texas) High School and Incarnate Word College graduate coached at Port Aransas, Salado, Martinsville, Plains and Canton before coming to Vega. One of the leaders on last year’s team was Macy Walker, who was the district defensive MVP, TABC all-region and TGCA allstate. She is attending the University of St. Mary (Leavenworth, Kansas) on a basketball scholarship. Makaylee Schenk, an all-district selection, also is gone, along with Kaylei Richardson and RaLee McKarns. However, Henderson has plenty of experience with three starters and four other letter winners returning. The three returning starters are Lara Mason, Anita Knoll and Kate Link. Mason, a 6-0 senior post, averaged 14.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and three blocks last season. She was TABC and TGCA all-state. Knoll, a 5-6 senior guard, averaged 13.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 3.4 assists in earning TABC all-region honors. Henderson pegs Mason and Knoll as all-state candidates. Link, a 5-7 junior guard (6 ppg, 3.8 rpg), was the district 246

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Lara Mason

Anita Knoll

Kate Link

Daelee Hayes

Marie Knoll

Madalyn Richards

newcomer of the year. Those three returning starters represent 34 ppg, based upon last year’s scoring statistics. Daelee Hayes, a 5-7 junior guard (4.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg), didn’t start but still made the all-district team. And 5-6 junior guard Madalyn Richards (4 ppg, 2 apg) was on the all-district defensive team. Two other players to watch are 5-10 senior forward Emily Jackson (2.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg) and 5-5 senior guard Marie Knoll (3.2 ppg, 2 rpg). Marie is Anita Knoll’s twin sister. All that experience, along with team speed and athleticism, rank as team strengths, according to Henderson. He is concerned about rebounding. “This is my concern every year,” he said. What are his keys for success this season? “Defending and rebounding in the half court against the top teams,” he said. (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

The Lady Horns will open their season Nov. 12 at Sunray followed by a road game at defending state Class 1A champion Nazareth then three more away games. The home opener will be Nov. 26 against White Deer. Vega will play in its own tournament, plus the Mesquite Pit Classic in Poolville and the Lubbock Caprock events. District 3-2A play begins Jan. 14. BOYS The Longhorns will have a new coach, although he’s not new to the school. Sonny Calhoun, who spent the past three years at Wheeler, has moved back to Vega. He was the Longhorns’ assistant coach from 2012-2016. Before that, Calhoun was Hartley’s head coach for four years. He is a graduate of Happy High School and West Texas A&M University. His Wheeler team won District 2-2A and went 28-6 last spring, losing to eventual Class 2A state runner-up Gruver 56-48 in the regional quarterfinals. Calhoun succeeds longtime Longhorn Coach Todd Schroeder, who posted his 300th career victory last season. Schroeder is still teaching at Vega and coaching golf. Schroeder directed the Longhorns for 16 years in a 19-year coaching career that produced 311 wins and 231 losses. His last Vega team went 17-13 overall and 6-2 in District 3-2A, finishing second. Vega lost to Post 59-44 in bidistrict. Carson Grawunder, who was all-district, and Rhett Blasingame are the major departures from that team. Schroeder and new coach Calhoun both have family ties on this year’s squad.

DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Nov. 25 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 30 Jan. 3 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 18

Vega Schedule

Opponent Sunray Nazareth Bushland Friona Nazareth Floydada White Deer Happy Vega Tournament Clarendon White Deer Tournament Mesquite Pit Classic Stratford West Texas River Road Caprock Classic Pampa Pampa Gruver Groom Sundown Panhandle Olton Highland Park Bovina Sudan Farwell Olton Bovina Sudan Farwell Olton

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Bryson Schroeder

Carson Kirkland

Austin Calhoun

Cameron Tanck

Ryan Grawunder

Berrian Lopez

Schroeder’s son, 5-10 senior guard Bryson Schroeder, averaged 14 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists and was the district defensive MVP last season. Schroeder’s nephew, 5-11 senior guard Carson Kirkland, contributed 13 ppg, 5 rpg, 4 apg in earning all-district distinction. Calhoun brought his son with him from Wheeler. Austin Calhoun, a 6-1 senior forward, logged 13 ppg, 8 rpg, 4 apg credentials and was the District 2-2A MVP. (Continued on next page)

Place B G There X There X There X There X X Here X There X Here X X Here X X Here X X Here X X There X Poolville X Here X X Here X Here X Lubbock X X Here X Here X Here X There X X There X There X There X There X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X

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(Continued from previous page)

Coach Calhoun nominates Bryson Schroeder, Kirkland and Austin Calhoun as all-state candidates. The Longhorns have a fourth honored player returning in all-district Cameron Tanck, a 6-0 senior forward (3 ppg, 4 rpg), and another player to watch in 5-10 sophomore guard Ryan Grawunder (5 ppg, 4 rpg), who is the younger brother of the departed Carson Grawunder. Throw in 6-3 senior post Berrian Lopez as a starter, plus five other returning letter winners, and it appears as if the Longhorns are loaded. “We have lots of varsity experience, quickness and inside scoring,� Coach Calhoun said. He is concerned about rebounding and defense. The keys for success this season will be adjusting to a new system, developing chemistry and playing great defense, according to Calhoun.

Vega Super Boosters Mimi PerezRuiz Family Friemel Family The Royce Schulte Family Jeffery & Amy Carlson The Cnossen Dairy

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TaraLee McKarns

Kieli Luster

Emily Jackson

Name Anita Knoll Lara Mason Kate Link Madalyn Richards Daelee Hayes Marie Knoll Emily Jackson Kieli Luster TaraLee McKarns

Vega Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 6-0 P Sr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-6 G Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-7 G Jr.

Coach: Randy Henderson Asst. Coaches: Tiffi West, Ashton Sansing 2018-2019 record: 34-2, 7-1 School phone: 267-2123 Players to watch: Lara Mason, Anita Knoll, Kate Link, Emily Jackson, Daelee Hayes, Marie Knoll, Madalyn Richards

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Ryan, Syndi & Weston Hart Jeremy, Michelle, Zack, Nik & Paige Paetzold Roy & Patty Jackson Roddy & Zane Allred David, Vicki, Paige, Dane & Slade Brorman The Lane Mason Family Roddy & Janice Allred The Shane Jackson Family Beau & Britni Harmon Keith & Rachael Covington Ryan Morton Bob & Jan Ayres John & Jean Noggler Richard & Jane Meyer Cole & Darbi Jefferies Eddie & Teri Morton

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Cole Robbins

Slade Brorman

Ryan Arnold

Name Slade Brorman Cameron Tanck Carson Kirkland Bryson Schroeder Ryan Arnold Austin Calhoun Ryan Grawunder Cole Robbins Berrian Lopez Jackson Neelley

Vega Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 5-11 G Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 6-3 P Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 5-10 G Soph. 5-11 F Sr. 6-3 P Sr. 6-0 F Sr.

Coach: Sonny Calhoun Asst. Coach: Tyler Harper 2018-2019 record: 17-13, 6-2 School phone: 267-2123, ext. 460 Players to watch: Austin Calhoun, Carson Kirkland, Bryson Schroeder, Ryan Grawunder

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Evelyn Richardson Lester & Francis Kirkland Cayler & Tyler Harper Fred & Lynda Stewart Paul, Anna, Gage & Sienna Griffin Rex, Valerie, Paxton, Gaitlin & Mia Green Clay Dason & Creed Gilter Jody & Lisa Johnson Steve, Yvonne, Cora & Aiden Campbell Lexie & Trenton Baca Jay & Vietta Newton Bryson & Brock Schroeder Tim & Terrie Harper—Harper Production, LLC Michael & Brayson Berend Farms Evan & Rylee Stone Ray & Nadine Berend 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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The Hayes Family The Schaap Family The Marsh Family The Richards Family Tiemann Family Toni & Keith Brorman The Wilson’s Matt Wilson New Life Homes Fowler Cattle John & Melody Link Eric & Micah Black Jon, Kasey, Kenah, Tanton & Kalora Fuller The Doug & Keila Bain Family The Bee’s Knees Coffee & Boutique Wade, Lana, Jentri & Reegan Bass The Drinnon Family Terri & Alan Tharp The McKarns Family Ashley, Amy, Gunner & Maci Hartsell Shirley Drinnon Jan & Terry Davis Jeff, Sara, Justin, Allie & Parker Joyce Ag Specialist Insurance Services, Inc.

San Antonio may be the holy land for Texas high school basketball, but the sport has made it to the real Holy Land, too. This outdoor court in Jerusalem, Israel, had a few boys hanging out in February 2019, not far from some of the historic events of the Bible. (Photo by Mike Haynes) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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District 4-2A Lions counting on Beans again

New Deal

Both the Lions and Lady Lions turned in fine seasons last year and both captured district championships in their coaches’ debuts. In Kyler Bean’s first year as the Lions’ coach, New Deal went 17-3 overall and won the District 4-2A championship with a 9-1 record. Preceding district, the Lions had gone 8-1 in nonconference play despite getting a late start because of football. In the playoffs, New Deal defeated Sudan 62-44 in bidistrict and nipped Clarendon 69-68 in the area game. Wellington stopped the Lions 66-46 in the regional quarterfinals. Bean said the Clarendon ending was especially memorable. “We had a great season with a game we will never forget,” Bean said. “Down by 2 with one second left, senior DK Blaylock hit a buzzer-beater from half court to win the game.” Blaylock scored 31 points in that contest. Blaylock, who was TABC all-state and all-region and the district offensive MVP, signed to play football at Division I Boise State. Also gone from last year’s team are Layton Reed, TABC all-region and the district MVP, and Kendell Dunn, first-team all-district. However, Bean can count on three returning starters and two other letter winners for this season. He rates that experience factor as the Lions’ strength. Tanner Seeley, a 5-10 junior guard, averaged 10 points, 3 rebounds and 10 assists and earned first-team all-district distinction last season. Dylan Jerden, a 6-2 senior guard, was also first-team all-district with 8 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg credentials. Leric Eaton, a 6-3 sophomore forward, is the third returning starter. He sported 5 ppg, 8 rpg, 3 apg statistics and was on the all-district defensive team. Those three starters represent 23 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Bean tabs two other letter winners as additional players to watch: 6-2 senior guard Haden Caudill (4 ppg, 4 rpg) and 6-1 junior guard Kyler Reed (3 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 apg). He is concerned about the need to call up players from last year’s JV team to provide some varsity depth.

Charlee Whitfield

Jasmine Valdez

Jaiden Rodriguez

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Taylor Gonzales

Ghenevieve Vasquez

Tanner Seeley

Haden Caudill

Dylan Jerden

Leric Eaton

Kyler Reed

“Being aggressive and taking care of the ball” are Bean’s keys for success this season. Not only will this be Bean’s second season as the Lions’ head coach but it also will be the second year his dad will be on the sidelines with him. Assistant Kyle Bean coached both boys and girls teams for 32 years at New Deal. Combined, Kyle Bean’s teams won 606 and lost 302 for a .667 winning percentage. Son Kyler Bean served as Kyle Bean’s assistant for two years before the pair switched roles last year. Kyler Bean is coaching at his high school alma mater. He is a Texas Tech University graduate. The Lions will get another late start to the season, opening Dec. 3 at Slaton. Then they’ll play in the New Home Tournament Dec. 5-7. Later, they’re scheduled for the Borden and Lubbock Caprock tourneys. District 4-2A play begins Jan. 17. GIRLS The Lady Lions broke out in a big way last year. They won their district with a 10-0 record. They were ranked No. 20 in the TABC’s Top 25 in the final week of the season. New Deal beat Bovina 73-49 in bidistrict before losing to Stratford 48-34 in the area round. That capped a 26-9 campaign. “The Lady Lions ended an 11-year playoff win drought,” Coach Blake Manning said. “We also won district for the first time in five years.” The Lions suffered some key departures via graduation. Post Britten Hull was the district offensive MVP; forward Autoumne Vasquez and guard Gabbi Mendez were first-team all-district; and guard Hailey Conatser was honorable mention AD. Post Gabby Corrales also departed. Two honored players return. Charlee Whitfield, a 5-6 junior forward, was first-team all-district last season. Jasmine Valdez, a 5-3 senior guard, was on the district’s all-defensive team. Jasmine (Continued on page 256) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

New Deal Schedule DATE

Opponent

Place

B G

Nov. 9

Farwell

Here X

Nov. 12

Lubbock High

There X

Nov. 16

Tahoka

There X

Nov. 19

Whitharral

Here X

Nov. 21-23

Spur Tournament

There X

Dec. 3

Slaton

There

X X

Dec. 5-7

New Home Tournament

There

X X

Dec. 10

Sundown

There

X X

Dec. 12-14

Borden County Tournament

There

X

Dec. 17

New Home

Here

X

Dec. 17

Memphis

Here X

Dec. 26-28

Caprock Tournament

Lubbock

Dec. 31

Levelland

Here X

Dec. 31

Tahoka

Here

X

X X

Jan. 2

Forsan

Klondike

X X

Jan. 7

Ropes

Here

X X

Jan. 10

Floydada

Here X

Jan. 10

Seagraves

Here

X

Jan. 14

Post

Here X

Jan. 17

Ralls

There

X X

Jan. 21

Hale Center

Here

X X

Jan. 24

Lockney

There

X X

Jan. 28

Floydada

There

X X

Jan. 31

Post

There

X X

Feb. 4

Ralls

Here

X X

Feb. 7

Hale Center

There

X X

Feb. 11

Lockney

Here

X X

Feb. 14

Floydada

Here

X

Feb. 18

Post

Here

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Kim Randolph Taylor Gonzales Rhett Hill Charlee Whitfield Jasmine Valdez Jaiden Rodriguez Hannah Fenske Ghenevieve Vasquez Linzi Loafman Araceli Torres

New Deal Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 P Sr. 5-5 G Jr. 5-6 F Sr. 5-6 F Jr. 5-3 G Sr. 5-8 F Jr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-6 G Soph. 5-6 P Sr. 5-3 G Sr.

Coach: Blake Manning Asst. Coaches: Joseph Cedillo, Matthew Ford 2018-2019 record: 26-9, 10-0 School phone: 746-5933 Players to watch: Charlee Whitfield, Ghenevieve Vasquez

Name Dylan Jerden Haden Caudill Tanner Seeley Kyler Reed Leric Eaton

New Deal Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-2 G Sr. 6-2 G Sr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-1 G Jr. 6-3 F Soph.

Coach: Kyler Bean Asst. Coaches: Dillon Moats, Kyle Bean 2018-2019 record: 17-3, 9-1 School phone: 746-5203 Players to watch: Dylan Jerden, Haden Caudill, Tanner Seeley, Kyler Reed, Leric Eaton

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is the sister of the departed Autoumne Vasquez. “This team will rely on its speed to defend and run the floor. There are many girls that defend well and buy into playing with lots of energy on defense,” Manning said. “With some all-around speed, we expect to get the ball up the floor for some layup opportunities as well.” He is concerned about size and depth. “We must get a lot better at playing extremely smart so that we do not get in foul trouble and also how to execute a scheme to defend a team that has size inside,” Manning said. What are his keys for success this season? “We must make the other team work to earn a good shot. In order to do that, we will have to focus on improving our transi-

tion defense and being disciplined to our individual jobs,” he said. “Trusting one another to do their individual assignments will make us a much stronger team defensively and offensively.” Manning is a graduate of Baird High School and the University of Texas at Arlington. He coached at Merkel for seven years, the last two as head coach. He’s beginning his second year at New Deal and fourth overall as a head coach with a 64-35 girls coaching record. The Lady Lions will open their season Nov. 9 at home against Farwell. They’ll participate in the Spur Tournament, their own tournament and the Lubbock Caprock event. District play for the girls begins Jan.10.

District 5-2A Brockman joins Bobcats from Gruver

Smyer

Andrew Brockman, who guided Gruver to the Class 2A state championship game last spring, is the Bobcats’ new coach. Brockman’s Gruver Greyhounds went 18-5 and won their district in his only year at that school. Gruver lost to Shelbyville 67-48 in the state finals. That also was the first head coaching assignment for the former Nazareth High Ethan Ramirez School standout, who played on a state champion and Texas Cup winning team his junior year (20022003) and on a regional semifinalist his senior year. Brockman is a Texas Tech University graduate. Brockman replaces Scott Royal, who coached the Bobcats for three years. Last year’s Bobcats, under Royal, won only one of eight District 5-2A games and finished last. Five seniors have moved on from last year’s squad, leaving Brockman with only one returning starter and four other letter winners. The returning starter is 6-3 junior forward Ethan Ramirez, who averaged 11 points and 7.5 rebounds. He was an all-district last season; Brockman sees him as an all-stater this season. Letter winners Keaghan Beardsley, a 5-10 senior guard, and Caleb Northcutt, a 6-0 sophomore guard, are other players to watch, according to Brockman. The other two letter winners are 5-10 senior forward Luke Martin and 5-10 senior guard Ryan Shelburne. Brockman lists size and speed as the Bobcats’ strengths. He is concerned about experience and depth. “We must learn the new system quickly and work to come together as one unit,” said Brockman in addressing the keys for success this season. “This team must be outstanding on defense, rebounding and shot selection.” The Bobcats will open regular season play Nov. 19 at Southcrest Baptist. The home opener will be Nov. 22 against Slaton. The Bobcats will play in the Anton Tournament, their own Smyer Tourney and the Lubbock Caprock event. The Bobcats will begin District 5-2A play Jan. 17. 256

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Ryan Shelburne

Levi Sinclair

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GIRLS The Lady Cats made the playoffs and won a postseason game last year despite having losing overall and district records. Smyer wound up 3-5 in District 5-2A, but its third-place finish earned a playoff spot. The Lady Cats beat McCamey 34-30 in bidistrict but lost to Christoval 35-19 in the area game. That capped a 10-17 season for the Lady Cats. “We lost a lot of close games but won the games we needed to win,” Coach Alan Ayers said. “The kids always fought hard.” Brittney Evans, first-team all-district, Elayna Ainsworth and Kennlee Tate have moved on from last year’s team. All three were honored academic standouts. Only one starter returns this season. Sabrina Earl, a 5-9 senior post, averaged 12 points and 11 rebounds. Earl is a three-year letter winner, as is 5-4 senior guard Myranda Ramirez, who contributed 6 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists per game. Jaden Lee, a 5-5 junior wing, also saw considerable action (Continued on page 258) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Ethan Ramirez Keaghan Beardsley Caleb Northcutt Logan Villegas Luke Martin Levi Sinclair Ryan Shelburne

Smyer Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-3 F Jr. 5-10 G Sr. 6-0 G Soph. 6-3 P Jr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-10 G Sr.

Coach: Andrew Brockman Asst. Coaches: Corey Hatter, Andy Hershey 2018-2019 record: 1-7 School phone: 234-2935 Players to watch: Ethan Ramirez, Keaghan Beardsley, Caleb Northcutt

Name Sabrina Earl Myranda Ramirez Patricia Garcia Jaden Lee Paris Riley Mikala Baker Jaden Fuentes Kristen Gonzales Francesca Martinez Molly Norman

Smyer Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-9 P Sr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-5 F Sr. 5-5 F Jr. 5-5 G Soph. 5-7 F Jr. 5-9 P Jr. 5-4 G Fr. 5-4 F Fr. 5-9 P Fr.

Coach: Alan Ayers Asst. Coaches: Mike Schaap, Payton Shipley 2018-2019 record: 10-17, 3-5 School phone: 234-2935

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Smyer Schedule DATE

Opponent

Place

B G

Nov. 9

Sudan

Here X

Nov. 12

Muleshoe

Here X

Nov. 15

Springlake-Earth

There X

Nov. 19

Southcrest Baptist

There

X X

Nov. 26

New Home

There

X X

Dec. 3

Crosbyton

There

X X

Dec. 5-7

Anton Tournament

There

X X

Dec. 12-14

Smyer Tournament

Here

X X

Dec. 17

Ropesville

Here

X X

Dec. 20

Whiteface

There

X X

Dec. 26-28

Caprock Tournament

Lubbock

X X

Jan. 3

Whiteface

There

X

Jan. 7

Whitharral

Here

X X

Jan. 10

Plains

There X

Jan. 10

Springlake-Earth

Here

Jan. 14

Tahoka

Here X

Jan. 14

Ralls

Here

X

Jan. 17

Sundown

There

X X

Jan. 21

Seagraves

Here

X X

Jan. 28

Plains

Here

X X

Jan. 31

Tahoka

There

X X

Feb. 4

Sundown

Here

X X

Feb. 7

Seagraves

There

X X

Feb. 11

Lubbock Christian

Here X

Feb. 14

Plains

There

X

Feb. 18

Tahoka

Here

X

X

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last season with 5 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg statistics. The Lady Cats are pretty young with just three seniors and three juniors listed on the roster. Seven players earned letters last season, so there is some experience. Ayers is beginning his third season at Smyer and 23rd as a head basketball coach. His Lady Cats have won 23 and lost 34. He coached at Lubbock Trinity, Abilene Wylie, Spur, Kermit and Lamesa before coming to Smyer. In 2003, he coached Lubbock Christian to the TAPPS state championship. His 2006 Abilene Wylie was the UIL state runner-up. Ayers is a graduate of Levelland High School and Texas Tech University.

Sabrina Earl

Jaden Lee

Paris Riley

The Lady Cats will play host to Sudan in their Nov. 9 opener. They’ll take part in the Anton and Lubbock Caprock tournaments, as well as their own Smyer tourney. District 5-2A play for the girls begins Jan. 10.

Sundown

Foes missed their chances at Roughettes Last year looked like the year the Roughettes – with only one starter and two other letter winners returning – might get roughed up. Didn’t happen. Sundown continued an amazing run of success under Coach Brian Legan. The 2018-19 Roughettes went 20-14 overall, 8-1 in District 5-2A and reached the regional quarterfinals. Geneva Cortez That marked the fourth straight year that Legan’s team has won at least 20 games, won a district championship and made it to the regional quarters or better. In that span, the Roughettes are 105-34 overall and 39-2 in district play. In the playoffs, Sundown defeated Iraan 53-29 in bidistrict and Albany 44-31 in the area round before bowing to Forsan 30-25 in the regional quarterfinals. “I really thought we overachieved in some areas and had some young kids step up, especially during the district season,” Legan said. I thought our nonconference schedule prepared us really well for our district run.” Name Geneva Cortez Alyzah McGlasson Grace McAdams Emily Rodriguez Lexie Lee Mckenzie Lee Alexa Rodriguez Alex De La Cerda Shea Beadles Kaydence Loftin Natalie Urias

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Mckenzie Lee

Alex De La Cerda

The key departure from last year’s team was Sydney Phelan, who was the district offensive MVP and TABC all-region. Lindi Richardson and Sierra Samarron also departed. Last season may have looked like the season for a dip in success for the Roughettes, but not this year. Sundown returns four starters and three other letter winners. Geneva Cortez, a 5-4 senior guard, averaged 8.5 points per game in making the all-district team. Lexie Lee, a 5-9 junior forward, averaged 4.5 points and 4.6 rebounds and was also alldistrict. Her twin sister, 5-11 junior forward McKenzie Lee (6.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg), was the district newcomer of the year. Alex De La Cerda, a 5-8 junior forward (5.5 ppg, 5 rpg), is the fourth returning starter. That quartet represents 25 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Letter winner Alexa Rodriguez, a 5-8 junior forward (3.5 rpg), made the all-district defensive team. Emily Rodriguez, a 5-8 junior forward (4.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg) and Alyzah McGlasson, a 5-3 senior guard, also lettered last year. Legan lists size, great chemistry and work ethic as the Roughettes’ strengths. He is concerned about scoring and quickness. “We will be bringing back several players from last year’s team, and this is exciting. We will also have a few freshmen in the mix for some playing time. We have some individuals who are pretty quick, but as a team, there’s a concern,” Legan said. “I like our attitude and work ethic, and I’m excited about the season. If we can find a way to replace Sydney Phelan’s leadership, ball-handling and scoring ability, we could have a (Continued on page 260) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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successful season.” Success has followed Legan throughout his girls coaching career. He’s beginning his 17th season at Sundown, and his Roughettes have posted a 357-161 record. The Seagraves High School and Texas Tech University graduate coached at Seagraves, Abernathy and Spur before coming to Sundown. In 20 years, his girls teams have compiled a 457-257 won-lost mark, a .640 winning percentage. Sundown’s opener is Nov. 12 at home against Lubbock Roosevelt. The Roughettes will participate in the Abernathy, Nazareth and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District play begins Jan. 14. BOYS The Roughnecks bettered the Roughettes by one step last season — the boys reached the regional semifinals. They almost went further than that, losing to Gruver by one point in the regional semis. Gruver went on to reach the Class 2A state championship game. The Roughnecks advanced to the Dimmitt Tournament championship game, which was canceled because of weather. A victory over Class 4A Andrews triggered an 18-game winning streak. In the process, the Roughnecks rolled to the District 5-2A title with a perfect 8-0 slate. In the playoffs, Sundown defeated McCamey 77-55 in bidistrict, Albany 53-41 in the area game and Haskell 57-44 in the regional quarterfinals. Gruver nipped the Roughnecks 55-54 in the regional semifinals. That brought an end to a 22-3 season. “We had a fantastic season last year. We were led by some great senior leaders and had a special postseason run, advancing to the regional tournament and really competing against Gruver. Missed out by one point playing in the regional championship,” Coach Kyle Igo said. “This team played together with all heart, they set the bar high and left a great legacy to show future Roughnecks what our standard is now. They were a special group of kids who learned to be servant leaders and play extremely hard.” Three key players from that team have moved on. Steven Quintanilla was the district MVP; Abraham Bocanegra was alldistrict and all-region; and Jeremy A Hernandez was all-district. That leaves Igo with two returning starters, both of whom were all-district selections a year ago. Brice Legan, a 6-0 senior guard, averaged 13 points and 2

Gus Davis

Brice Legan

Carson Holson

Name Brice Legan Gus Davis Michael Ojeda Carson Holson Darian Rougeux Omar Lopez

Michael Ojeda

Darian Rougeux

Sundown Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 G Sr. 6-2 F Sr. 5-9 G Sr. 6-2 F Jr. 6-1 G Jr. 5-9 G Sr.

Coach: Kyle Igo Asst. Coach: Jeff Lyles 2018-2019 record: 22-3, 8-0 School phone: 229-3021 Players to watch: Brice Legan, Gus Davis assists last season. He is the son of Sundown girls Coach Brian Legan. His sister Jenna is a former standout for the Roughettes, and his mother is Janice Farris Legan, who played on Texas Tech’s 1993 national championship team. Gus Davis, a 6-2 senior forward, contributed 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds per game. Igo considers Brice Legan and Davis as all-state material this season. Brice Legan and Davis lettered last season, of course. So did 5-9 senior guard Michael Ojeda, 6-2 junior forward Carson (Continued on next page)

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Holson, 6-1 junior guard Darian Rougeux and 5-9 senior guard Omar Lopez. “We have a terrific nucleus of kids returning off last year’s special season,” Igo said. “They know our expectations and how we do things.” He also said that guard play will be a strength. He listed his concerns as finding leaders to emerge, rebounding and depth off the bench. Igo’s keys for success this season are: • Staying humble and hungry; • Remembering to be grateful for everything and entitled to nothing; • Finding ways to get better daily. Igo graduated from Whiteface High School and Wayland Baptist University. After coaching at Levelland as an assistant, he took his first head coaching job at Sundown 10 years ago. In the past four years, his Roughnecks have won 81 games and lost 34 for a .733 winning percentage. The Roughnecks open their season Nov. 26 at Ropes. They’ll participate in the Nazareth, Dimmitt and Lubbock Caprock tourneys. District 5-2A play for the boys begins Jan. 17.

Alyzah McGlasson

Alexa Rodriguez

Emily Rodriguez

Sundown Super Boosters Play Hard and Get Good Results!—Robertson Heating and Air, Inc. Go Roughettes! Play hard Mckenzie and Lexie!—Lee Family and George GO BIG

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 13 Dec. 17 Dec. 19 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 18

Sundown Schedule

Opponent Roosevelt Olton Farwell Abernathy Tournament Midland Greenwood Ropes Sudan Nazareth Tournament New Deal Dimmitt Tournament Slaton Post Lubbock Titans Caprock Tournament Spur Roswell Goddard Vega Hale Center New Home Seagraves Smyer Plains Tahoka Hereford Seagraves Smyer Plains Tahoka Seagraves

Place B G Here X There X There X There X Here X There X X There X X There X X Here X X There X Here X There X X Here X X Lubbock X X There X X There X X Here X Here X Here X There X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X

Good luck to the Roughnecks and Roughettes

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District 1-1A Boys 1. Booker 2. Fort Elliott 3. Follett 4. Miami 5. Kelton/Higgins 7. Darrouzett District 1-1A Girls 1. Booker/Follett 3. Higgins 4. Miami 5. Fort Elliott 6. Darrouzett 7. Kelton District 2-1A Boys 1. Shamrock 2. White Deer 3. McLean 4. Groom 5. Claude 6. Hedley/Lefors District 2-1A Girls 1. McLean 2. Claude 3. White Deer 4. Groom 5. Shamrock 6. Hedley 7. Lefors

TEAMS AT A GLANCE District 3-1A Boys 1. Nazareth 2. Texline 3. Happy 4. Hartley 5. Adrian 6. Wildorado 7. Channing District 3-1A Girls 1. Nazareth 2. Happy 3. Wildorado 4. Hartley 5. Channing 6. Adrian 7. Texline District 4-1A Boys 1. Valley 2. Anton 3. Kress 4. Silverton 5. Hart 6. Cotton Center District 5-1A Boys 1. Springlake-Earth 2. Whitharral 3. Morton 4. Amherst 5. Whiteface 6. Lazbuddie

1

A

District 5-1A Girls 1. Morton 2. Whiteface 3. Whitharral 4. Springlake-Earth 5. Lazbuddie 6. Amherst District 6-1A Boys 1. New Home 2. Crosbyton 3. Petersburg 4. Lorenzo 5. Wilson 6. Southland District 6-1A Girls 1. New Home 2. Lorenzo 3. Crosbyton 4. Petersburg 5. Wilson 6. Southland District 7-1A Boys 1. Ropes 2. O’Donnell 3. Meadow 4. Wellman Union 5. Loop 6. Dawson District 7-1A Girls 1. Ropes 2. O’Donnell 3. Wellman Union 4. Meadow 5. Loop 6. Dawson

HONOR ROLL 1A Boys Jeffery Garman, Adrian, 5-7, Jr.; Tanner Read, Adrian, 6-1, Jr.; Jake Wells, Adrian, 5-9, Jr.; Sergio Champion, Anton, 6-0, Soph.; Ashton Martinez, Anton, 5-7, Soph.; Joseph Servantes, Anton, 5-9, Jr.; Maurice Carr, Crosbyton, 6-3, Sr.; Landon Clark, Crosbyton, 5-10, Sr.; Chance Stockett, Happy, 5-10, Sr.; Arik Coile, Happy, Jr.; Jordan Upton, Hedley, 5-7, Jr.; Esteban Carreon, Hedley, 5-9, Jr.; Josh Booth, Hedley, 5-10, Fr.; Ben Crockett, McLean, 6-1, Sr.; Eric Bartley, McLean, 6-2, Sr.; Kade Reichman, McLean, 6-4, Sr.; Nathaneal Van Dijk, Nazareth, 6-3, Sr.; Brayden Dyer, Nazareth, 5-11, Sr.; Kaden Cleavinger, Nazareth, 6-5, Jr.; Aidan Moore, Nazareth, 6-3, Jr.; Luke Betzen, Nazareth, 5-10, Jr.; Pake Partington, Ropes, 6-3, Sr.; Ryan Terry, Ropes, 6-0, Sr.; 270

1A

RJ Medrano, Ropes, 5-7, Soph.; Jaden Clabaugh, Ropes, 5-9, Sr.; Calin, Peden, Ropes, 6-0, Sr.; Slade Airhart, Ropes, 6-1, Sr.; Shea Jernigan, Shamrock, 5-9, Jr.; Riley Owens, Shamrock, 6-2, Sr.; Sean Wright, Shamrock, 5-10, Soph.; Diego Sanchez, Springlake-Earth, 6-0, Sr.; Evan DeLeon, Springlake-Earth, 5-8, Soph.; Keshan Holmes, Springlake-Earth, 6-0, Soph.; Kaden Castillo, Springlake-Earth, 5-11, Soph.; Cash Poole, Texline, 5-10, Sr.; Colton Luther, Texline, 5-8, Jr.; William Luther, Texline, 6-2, Soph.; Noel Lozano, Texline, 6-3, Soph.; Marcos Moncada, Texline, 6-2, Soph.; Stratten Potter, Texline, 5-11, Fr.; Braeden Logue, White Deer, 6-0, Sr.; Hunter Warminski, White Deer, 6-0, Jr.; Drake Damron, White Deer, 6-4, Sr. 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

HONOR ROLL

1A Girls Haley Andrade, Adrian, Sr.; Jada Green, Adrian, Jr.; Hhanna Acevedo, Adrian, Jr.; Madison Fleming, Anton, Sr.; Marisa Alvarado, Anton, Jr.; Bianca Garcia, Crosbyton, Sr.; Marissa Marquez, Crosbyton, Sr.; Thalia Guerrero, Crosbyton, Jr.; Hannah Haynes, Crosbyton, Jr.; Bayleigh Callaway, Crosbyton, Soph.; Kennedy Laubhan, Follett, 5-3, Sr.; Abby Schilling, Follett, 5-8, Soph.; Kaylee Bass, Fort Elliott, 5-7, Jr.; Savanna Sims, Fort Elliott, 5-7, Soph.; Aubrey Ritter, Groom, 5-9, Jr.; Kinley Gibson, Happy, 6-0, Sr.; Kenli Johnson, Happy, 5-9, Jr.; Aimee McCarly, Happy, 5-5, Soph.; Mariana Mendoza, Hartley, Sr.; Mallory Sandivol, Hartley, Soph.; Cora Watson, Higgins, 5-3, Sr.; Cara Watson, Higgins, 5-4, Sr.; Averi Durham, Higgins, 5-10, Sr.; Matty King, Higgins, 5-6, Jr.; Alyssa O’Neil, Higgins, 5-4, Jr.; Macy Denney, Higgins, 5-4, Jr.; Caden Carter, McLean, 5-6,

Follett

Sr.; Dee Vasquez, McLean, 5-3, Sr.; Faith Moon, McLean, 5-8, Jr.; Lily Reichman, McLean, 5-11, Jr.; Ashlie Russell, McLean, 5-4, Soph.; Amy Schilderink, Nazareth, 6-0, Sr.; April Schmucker, Nazareth, 5-8, Sr.; Cambrie Heiman, Nazareth, 6-0, Sr.; Emma Kleman, Nazareth, 5-7, Jr.; Merry Gerber, Nazareth, 6-0, Jr.; Megan Moore, Ropes, 5-8, Sr.; Chloe Trull, Ropes, 5-8, Sr.; Maggie Anderson, Ropes, 5-10, Jr.; Jocelyn Sanders, Shamrock, 5-6, Sr.; Kynnan Shields, Shamrock, 5-10, Jr.; Abby O’Gorman, Shamrock, 5-7, Soph.; Micah Shortnacy, Shamrock, 5-6, Soph.; Sayler Beerwinkle, Springlake-Earth, 5-9, Soph.; Emily Bradley, White Deer, 5-8, Sr.; Curstin Haiduk, White Deer, 5-6, Jr.; Teagan Forney, White Deer, 5-7, Jr.; Deborah Chesser, White Deer, 5-5, Jr.; Rebecca Tracy, White Deer, 6-0, Jr.; Audrey Ayer, Whiteface, 5-6, Sr.; Nayeli Herrera, Whiteface, 5-5, Sr.; Holli Scoggins, Whiteface, 5-7, Jr.; Dayley Mosley, Whiteface, 5-7, Sr.

District 1-1A Lady Panthers turn things around

The Lady Panthers engineered a big turnaround in Coach Michael Howard’s second year on the job. After a 7-20 (5-5 in district) showing in Howard’s initial season, the Lady Panthers posted 21-10 overall and 9-1 District 1-1A records. Follett tied Booker for the district title but defeated Booker 34-26 in the seeding game for the playoffs. The Lady Panthers walloped Wilderado 67-23 in the area game before being trounced by Nazareth 69-21 in the regional quarterfinals. Naz went on to win its third straight Class 1A state championship. Howard called it a “very good year.” Two key players have left the Follett program. Ashlyn Schilling, a senior last year, was the district MVP, all-region and on the Amarillo Globe-News Class 1A Golden Spread team. Kyndall Rohan, who was the district defensive MVP as a sophomore, has moved. However, the Lady Panthers have four starters returning. They are: • Kennedy Laubhan, a 5-3 senior point guard, averaged 10 points and 2 assists last season in earning all-district distinction. Howard describes her as a “great shooter.” • Molly Jones, a 5-1 junior guard, contributed 6 ppg, 3 apg and was also all-district. • Abby Schilling, a 5-8 sophomore forward, scored 5 points and corralled 5 rebounds per game. “She’s a solid forward with rebounding skills,” Howard said of the younger sister of the departed Ashlyn Schilling. • Halle Caldwell, a 5-4 senior guard, logged 4 ppg, 3 rpg statistics. Those four represent 25 points per game if they match last year’s output. Megan Howard, a 5-10 sophomore forward (2 ppg, 2 rpg), is the coach’s daughter. Coach Howard sees speed and shooting as the Lady Panthers’ strengths. His concerns center on having a young team with very little height. He described the keys for success this season as “maintaining our vision to be better than last year, staying healthy and putting 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Kennedy Laubhan

Molly Jones

Abby Schilling

Halle Caldwell

Megan Howard

Angelina Myers

the ball in the basket.” Howard is coaching at his high school alma mater. The West Texas A&M University graduate coached at Booker before arriving in Follett. His overall boys career coaching record is 33-50. The Lady Panthers will open the season Nov. 9 at home against Wheeler. They’ll play in the Miami, White Deer and Laverne tournaments. District 1-1A play begins Jan. 3. BOYS The Panthers have their third coach in as many years as Luke Ogden, formerly the girls coach at Channing, takes over. Ogden, a Perryton High School graduate, was a walk-on player at Oklahoma Panhandle State University and ended up as a three-year starter and three-year captain at OPSU. He coached the Channing girls from 2016-18 and accumulated a 13-47 record. He will have plenty of experience on his bench as Follett football Coach Andy Copley is one of his assistants. Copley’s boys teams won state championships at Water Valley (Continued on page 273)

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Taylor Shanley

Kaylee Humbert

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(Continued from page 271)

and Canadian (twice). His boys teams have won 421 games and lost 295. Ogden succeeds veteran Coach Ted Rohan at Follett. Rohan left with a combined girls-boys coaching record of 278-283. The Panthers, under Rohan, went 8-9 overall and 7-5 in District 1-1A last season. Their third-place district finish qualified them for the playoffs, but they lost 60-17 to Shamrock in bidistrict. Four seniors — Christian Barber, Dylan Howard, Tyler Gregory and Josh Stuart — were listed on last year’s Follett roster. So they’re gone, but Ogden inherits six letter winners. They are: • Chance Braley, a 5-11 sophomore guard; • Jonathan Comacho, a 5-7 junior guard; • Ethan Gregory, a 5-11 sophomore guard; • Marshall Howard, a 6-0 junior forward; • Gavin Welch, a 5-7 sophomore forward; • Levi Lusk, a 5-11 senior forward. Lusk is the only senior on this year’s Follett roster, which also

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Grace Butler

BrieAnna Coleman

Chloe Smith

includes three juniors, three sophomores and two freshmen. So the Panthers are young. Ogden hasn’t had a chance to assess his team’s strengths as his players were on the football field. He is concerned about the team’s fundamentals. The key to success this season will be “staying healthy as we are limited with numbers,” he said. Because of possible football complications, the Panthers aren’t scheduled to open their season until the Miami Tournament Dec. 5-7. Later in the month they’ll play in the Lefors and Laverne tourneys. The District 1-1A opener for the boys is Jan. 3.

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Name Chance Braley Alex Bussard Jonathan Comacho Shane Franks Ethan Gregory Marshall Howard Levi Lusk Oscar Torres Gavin Welch

Follett Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-11 G Soph. 6-1 P Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-9 G Fr. 5-11 G Soph. 6-0 F Jr. 5-11 F Sr. 5-8 G Fr. 5-7 F Soph.

Coach: Luke Ogden Asst. Coaches: Michael Howard, Andy Copley 2018-2019 record: 8-9, 7-7 School phone: 653-2301, ext. 1526

Follett Super Boosters Faith, Family, Follett!—Kerry & Janet Hoover Go Panthers!—Area Eye Center, 115 S. Main, Perryton, TX Good Luck Kennedy Laubhan!—Tommy & Desiree’ Laubhan

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Name Halle Caldwell Kennedy Laubhan Molly Jones Taylor Shanley Abby Schilling Megan Howard Kaylee Humbert Kayden Laubhan BrieAnna Coleman Chloe Smith Grace Butler Angelina Myers

Follett Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-3 G Sr. 5-3 G Sr. 5-0 G Jr. 5-9 P Jr. 5-8 F Soph. 5-4 F Soph. 5-5 F Soph. 5-4 G Soph. 5-6 F Fr. 5-4 G Fr. 5-8 P Soph. 5-8 G Sr.

Coach: Michael Howard 2018-2019 record: 21-10, 9-1 School phone: 653-2301 Players to watch: Kennedy Laubhan, Abby Shilling

Go Panthers!—Gailan & Sheryl Winegarner Go Panthers and Lady Panthers!—Andy, Jamie, Conner & Cameron Copley

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DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 19-21 Jan. 3 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Follett Schedule

Opponent Wheeler Shamrock West Texas High Groom Gruver Wildorado Lefors Miami Tournament White Deer Tournament Lefors Tournament Miami Laverne Tournament Booker Darrouzett Higgins Fort Elliott Miami Kelton Booker Darrouzett Higgins Fort Elliott Miami Kelton

Place B G Here X Here X There X There X Here X Here X There X There X X There X There X Here X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X There X

This scene of an outdoor basketball game took place in Hooker, a town in the Oklahoma Panhandle, in 1913. (Photo courtesy of Chris Gerald/Postcards from the Panhandle) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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Fort Elliott

Lady Cougars young with no seniors The Lady Cougars were looking for big things last season after winning a district championship in the previous season, Coach Lana Swafford’s first year at Fort Elliott. It wasn’t to be. Plagued by injuries, the Lady Cougars struggled to a 9-17 overall record. They tied for fourth in District 1-1A with a 3-7 mark. “We went into last season very excited and hoping to be district champs again,” Swafford said. “However, we had a senior starter and a freshman both tear an ACL, which led to rebuilding the team with younger, more inexperienced players.” All-district performers Emily Coulter and Kamryn Chesher, along with Jacy Hughes and Kaylye Coffman, have departed from last year’s team. Swafford does have a pair of returning guards in 5-7 junior Kaylee Bass and 5-7 sophomore Savanna Sims. She designates those two as players to watch. The projected starters are Bass, Sims, 5-8 sophomore post/ forward Brooklyn Buckingham, 5-6 sophomore post/forward Lindi Rose and 5-8 sophomore guard/forward Sydney Hughes. Sydney Hughes is the younger sister of the departed Jacy Hughes. The Lady Cougars are young. Bass and 5-7 guard Marilyn Lopez de Lara are the only juniors on the Fort Elliott roster. There are no seniors listed.

DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 26 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 31

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Opponent White Deer Adrian Memphis Lefors Wheeler Channing Tournament Hedley Memphis Tournament Miami Tournament McLean Fort Elliott Tournament Darrouzett Claude Higgins Shamrock

Place B G There X Panhandle X Here X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X There X Here X X Here X X There X There X Here X There X X

Fort Elliott Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Kaylee Bass 5-7 F Jr. Savanna Sims 5-7 F/P Soph. Brooklyn Buckingham 5-8 G Soph. Lindi Rose 5-6 G/F Soph. Sydney Hughes 5-8 F Soph. Marilyn Lopez de Lara 5-7 F/P Jr. Summer Meller 5-6 G/F Fr. Coach: Lana Swafford 2018-2019 record: 9-17, 3-7 School phone: 375-2454 Players to watch: Kaylee Bass, Savanna Sims That youth is one of Swafford’s concerns, along with not having any senior leadership and having low numbers. However, some of those younger players represent a strength. “Since we had to have some younger players play a lot last year, we are returning this year with more experience than we would have otherwise,” Swafford said. “We had a small group of girls who dedicated their summer to becoming better players by doing many team camps and coming to the gym to work.” (Continued on next page)

Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 3 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Wheeler Miami Kelton Booker Follett Darrouzett Higgins Amarillo Flames Miami Canadian 9th Grade Kelton Booker Follett Darrouzett Higgins

There X There X Here X There X Here X Here X There X Here X Here X Here There X Here X There X There X Here X

X X X X X X X X X X X X

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She outlined several keys for success this season. “Being disciplined on offense and working hard on defense,” Swafford said. “Learning the game and making better decisions. giving every practice and game everything you’ve got. Playing with confidence.” Swafford played four years of basketball at Floydada High School and two more at Clarendon College. The Texas Tech University graduate is beginning her third season at Fort Elliott and 14th as a head coach. She previously coached at the Garden County Schools in Oshkosh, Nebraska. The Lady Cougars will open the season Nov. 9 at White Deer. The home opener in Briscoe will be Nov. 12 against Memphis. They’ll play in the Channing and Memphis tournaments. District 1-1A play begins Dec. 17. BOYS Ray Turpen, who is familiar with basketball in the Panhandle, is the new coach of the Cougars. Turpen began his 10-year coaching career at his high school alma mater, Lefors. After five years at Lefors, the Oklahoma Panhandle State University graduate moved to Channing for another five-year stint. He replaces Eldon Van Hooser, who has moved to Forestburg (near Gainesville) to coach the boys team there. Van Hooser directed Cougar teams for four years. His Cougars had a winning season at 14-7 in 2018-19. They went 10-2 in District 1-1A for a second-place finish. Fort Elliott bowed to White Deer 59-47 in the bidistrict playoff. Only two seniors — Christian Camorlina and Kelton Quar-

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Kaylee Bass

Sydney Hughes

Savanna Sims

Brooklyn Buckingham

Summer Meller

les — were listed on last year’s roster. Both were starters, and Camorlina was a second-team all-region selection. Turpen inherits three returning starters and five other letter winners to help make the coaching transition smoother. The returning starters are 5-8 senior guard Braley Long, 6-0 senior forward Isaac York and 5-10 junior guard Gavin Boydston. Long and York are outstanding players to watch, according to their new coach. (Continued on next page)

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The other letter winners are 5-9 senior guard Rayden Gonzales, 5-10 senior forward Logan Hefley, 5-11 senior forward Mariano Perez, 5-8 sophomore guard Gavin McDowell and 5-8 sophomore guard Roper Pigg. Turpen lists depth and team speed as the Cougars’ strengths. He is concerned about outside shooting. He describes the keys for success this season as “stay disciplined and always execute on the defensive side.” The Cougars will open their season at home Nov. 15 against Lefors. They’ll participate in the Channing, Miami and their own Fort Elliott tourneys. District 1-1A competition gets under way Dec. 17.

Fort Elliott Super Boosters Good Luck Cougars!—Brett, Tara, Brock & Brooklyn Buckingham Have a great season!—Richie, Twanna, Matt, Kinsey & Kaylynn Kiker Time to Shine! Hebrews 12:1—Tommy, Amanda & Tatum Meek Good luck this season Cougars & Lady Cougars!—Shawn, Daphne, Alexis, Zane & Shyana Zybach Wishing the Cougars and Lady Cougars a great season!—Kevin & Jona Meek

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Braley Long

Isaac York

Gavin Boydston

Good Luck Cougars and Lady Cougars!—Earnest, Brenda & Larami Lancaster Go Cougars and Lady Cougars!—Justin, Susan, Jacy, Sydney & Charley Go Cougars and Lady Cougars!—The Marshalls Go Cougars!—Wayne & Kathy Zybach Good Luck Cougars!—Ben, Casey, Roper & Tatum Pigg Let’s Go Cougars!—Sallie & Tim Adcock Have a Great Season!—Shane, April, Shaley & Gatlin Goad Go Shane! Good Luck Cougars!—Jim & Mindy Davis Good Luck this Season!—Dennis & Brenda Hefley

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Roper Pigg Hunter Smith Shane Waldrop Issac York Coach: Ray Turpen 2018-2019 record: 14-7, 10-2 School phone: 375-2454 Rayden Gonzales

Logan Hefley

Gavin McDowell

Name Boone Begert Gavin Boydston Jacob Forward Rayden Gonzales Logan Hefley Braley Long Joseph Mayfield Gavin McDowell Mariano Perez

5-8 6-2 5-8 6-0

G F G F

Soph. Sr. Fr. Sr.

Mariano Perez

Roper Pigg

Fort Elliott Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 F Fr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-7 G Fr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-8 G Soph. 5-8 G Soph. 5-11 F Sr.

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Higgins

One coach does it all J.K. Hester is doing double duty in his second year at Higgins — he’s coaching both the boys and girls teams. The Lady Coyotes had the better season in 2018-19. They finished third in District 1-1A with a 6-4 record and qualified for the playoffs. They lost their bidistrict game to Claude 56-37, completing a 17-10 season. “We have not won a playoff game in three years in a row,” Hester said in assessing his concern for this season. The Lady Coyotes have a pair of sister combinations. Cora Watson, a 5-3 senior point guard, and Cara Watson, a 5-4 senior guard, are twins. Hester views the Watsons as all-state candidates. Alyssa O’Neil, a 5-4 junior point guard, and Taylor O’Neil, a 5-5 freshman guard, are sisters. Cora Watson, Cara Watson and Averi Durham, a 5-10 senior forward, are returnees from last year. Durham, Alyssa O’Neil, 5-6 junior forward Matty King and 5-4 guard Macy Denney are players to watch, according to Hester. Depth will be this team’s strength, he said. The key to success this season? “Peaking late in the year,” Hester said. Hester was an all-around athlete at Canadian High School and the 1994 Fighting Buffalo Award winner at West Texas A&M 284

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Cara Watson

Cora Watson

Averi Durham

University. He coached at Amherst and Loop before coming to Higgins. The Lady Coyotes will begin action at home Nov. 12 against Perryton JV, then play in the Nov. 14-16 Amarillo High JV Tournament. Later, they’ll play in the Miami and Fort Elliott varsity tourneys. District 1-1A play begins Dec. 20. BOYS The Coyotes were a .500 team across the board last season. They finished 11-11 overall and 6-6 in District 1-1A. Their fourth-place finish didn’t merit a playoff berth. “We would’ve been better if we worked together and had better attitudes,” Coach Hester said. (Continued on next page) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

(Continued from previous page)

This year’s team has an unusual makeup. Jordan Woods, a 5-10 point guard, and Brenden Elango, a 5-9 center, are the only two seniors on the early roster. They’re complemented by four freshmen: 5-7 guard Jayden Watson, 5-8 forward Miguel Gomez, 5-6 forward Mathew Green and 5-3 guard Julio Gallegos. Jordan Woods Hester said size and leadership are the Coyotes’ strengths. He is concerned about the lack of depth. Hester outlined the keys for a successful season as “staying healthy and improving every week.” The boys will open their season with four road games: at Sayre, Oklahoma, Nov. 19, at Shamrock Nov. 22, at Freedom, Oklahoma, Brenden Elango Nov. 25 and at Silverton Dec. 3. The Coyotes will take part in the Miami and Fort Elliott tournaments. District play for the boys begins Jan. 3.

Higgins Super Boosters Ima Detrixhe Phil Detrixhe Justin Burley, Vanessa Barbee, Janessa, Jayd & Laramye Go Coyotes!—Robert, Monica, Robbie, Jacob, Marisa & Jamie Ramos

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 14-16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 19 Dec. 20 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 18

Higgins Schedule

Opponent Perryton JV Amarillo High JV Tournament Sayre, Oklahoma Shamrock Freedom, Oklahoma Silverton Miami Tournament Groom Fort Elliott Tournament Balko, Oklahoma Fort Elliott Fritch Miami Kelton Booker Follett Darrouzett Fort Elliott Miami Kelton Booker Follett Darrouzett Fort Elliott

Place B G Here X There X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X There X There X X Here X X There X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X

Isamar Deanda Family Jose, Imelda, Miguel, JJ, Jimena & Jesenia David, Dusty & Paisley Adam, Raychel, Clay & Elizabeth Faulkner Starbuck’s Go Coyotes!—Chance & Becky Suthers Rick, Cheryl, Brina, Charlee & Sisaley

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Name Cora Watson Cara Watson Dakota Suit Averi Durham Matty King Alyssa O’Neil Macy Denney Janessa Barbee Marissa Vallejo Taylor O’Neil

Higgins Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-3 G Sr. 5-4 F Sr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-6 F Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 5-8 P Soph. 5-3 G Soph. 5-5 G Fr.

Coach: J.K. Hester Asst. Coach: Carla Watson 2018-2019 record: 17-10, 6-4 School phone: 852-2171 Players to watch: Cora Watson, Cara Watson, Averi Durham, Alyssa O’Neil, Matty King, Macy Denney

Name Jordan Woods Brendon Elango Jayden Watson Miguel Gomez Matthew Green Julio Gallegos

Higgins Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 5-9 P Sr. 5-7 G Fr. 5-8 F Fr. 5-6 F Fr. 5-3 G Fr.

Coach: JK Hester Asst. Coach: Carla Watson 2018-2019 record: 11-11, 6-6 School phone: 852-2171

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Jay & Judy Barbee Roger & Nancy Habekott Blake, Roni, Averi, Aspen & Knight Durham Go, Fight, Win!—Ms. Smith Go Coyotes!—The Hammons Family

Groom

Go Coyotes!—Arin, Amy, Madison & Jordan Woods Proud Supporters of the Higgins Coyotes!— James, Leanna & Parker Thompson Go Coyotes!—Randy & Rita Thompson Go 2020 Seniors!—The Watson Family

District 2-1A Tigers looking for stability

Talk about your musical chairs in coaching. The Tigers begin this season with their fifth coach in as many years. First, it was Tony Dodson in the 2015-16 season. Colton Woods coached the Tigers in the 2016-17 season. Then Jay Lamb took over in 2017-18, doing double duty as the Groom ISD superintendent. Last year, Si Exum mentored the Tigers. Now it’s Tory Peet’s turn. Peet is a graduate of Pampa High School and West Texas A&M University. He has 11 years of head basketball coaching experience, having coached the Lefors girls from 2008-12 and the Miami boys from 2012-19. Dodson, who has coached both the Groom boys and girls, will serve as Peet’s assistant. Dodson also is the school’s assistant principal. The turnover in coaches is a concern for Peet. “I am the fifth head coach in five years,” he said. “They have no stability.” 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

That theme continues in his keys for success this season. “Playing as a team,” he said, “and adapting to another head coach.” Last year’s Tigers, under Exum, finished 10-15 overall and 6-6 in District 2-1A for fourth place. Groom missed qualifying for the playoffs. Corbin Ruthardt was the key departure among the four seniors on last year’s team. Peet inherits six letter winners: 6-3 senior forward Cade Linquist, 5-11 senior guard Whitt Ward, 6-1 junior guard Gunner Lamb, 5-8 junior guard Braedon Williams, 6-1 sophomore forward Colby Linquist and 5-6 sophomore Damon Kuehler. The Linquists are brothers. Gunner Lamb is the son of Groom Superintendent Jay Lamb. There are four seniors, three juniors, two sophomores and two freshmen on this year’s roster. (Continued on next page)

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Depth and athletic ability are the Tigers’ strengths, according to Peet. The Tigers are scheduled to open their season at home Nov. 19 against Follett. They’ll play in the New Home and Fort Elliott tournaments. District 2-1A action gets under way Jan. 3 for the boys. GIRLS The Tigerettes made the playoffs last season for the second year in a row following a seven-year postseason drought. They took third place in District 2-1A with an 8-4 conference record. In the playoffs, Groom defeated Booker 48-41 in bidistrict and Valley 43-28 in the area round. McLean terminated the Tigerettes’ season at 18-9 with a 55-21 knockout in the regional quarterfinals. “We had one of the best seasons in the school’s recent history,” Coach Nicole Black said, “making it further than any girls team had in many years.” The Tigerettes lost some top talent off last year’s squad. Sydney Ritter was the district’s defensive player of the year and TABC all-region. Madison Friemel was all-district. Halle Barkley and K’Leigh Keesee both were honorable mention all-district. Two honored players, both starters last year, return this season. Aubrey Ritter, a 5-9 junior forward, averaged 19 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists last season in earning all-district distinction. Black nominates Aubrey Ritter — the sister of the departed Sydney Ritter — as an all-state candidate this season. Ginna Miller, a 5-5 senior guard, contributed 3 ppg, 2 rpg last season and was all-district honorable mention.

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Cade Linquist

Gunner Lamb

Whitt Ward

The Ritter connection doesn’t stop with the sisters. Aubrey Ritter has two cousins on the team: 5-7 senior guard/forward Kaylie Ritter and Kaylie’s sister, 5-6 freshman forward Brianna Ritter. And 5-7 junior guard Graci Treadwell (4 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg) also is a cousin of Aubrey Ritter. Aubrey Ritter, Miller, Kaylie Ritter, Treadwell and 5-5 sophomore guard/forward Payton Trevino (4 ppg, 2 rpg) all lettered last year. “We are going to be fairly speedy and will hopefully be able to pressure teams defensively,” Black said in assessing her team’s strengths. She is concerned about the Tigerettes’ size. “We are not very big physically, compared to some of the other teams in our district,” Black said. She described the keys for success this season as “staying healthy, as we don’t have much depth, and finding our identity as a team without last year’s seniors.” An all-stater, Black played in a regional championship game (Continued on next page)

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for Tulia High School. Then she played in three conference championship games for New Mexico State University. She captained the NMSU team in 2008-09. She is beginning her fourth season at Groom with a 103-106 overall girls coaching record over eight years. Black coached at Saint Jo and Bangs before coming to Groom. The Tigerettes will debut Nov. 12 at Booker. The home opener is Nov. 19 when Follett comes calling. Groom will participate in the New Home and Fort Elliott tourneys. The district opener for the girls is Dec. 20.

Aubrey Ritter

Ginna Miller

Groom Super Boosters Good Luck!—Jerry, Pam & Cassie Ashford Go Tigers and Ettes!—Tony & Mary Treadwell All the way!—The John Ybarra Family We love those Tigers and Ettes!—Nathan, Sherri, Maddie & Kyle—Wieberg Welding Go Aubrey!—Love ya, Mom & Dad Go Groom Tigers!—The Williams Family, in memory of Mike Williams Go Tigers and Tigerettes!—Jigger & Sandra Britten Go Get’em Tigers!—The Groom News Have a great season Tigers and Tigerettes!— Bohr Enterprise—John & Allison Bohr Have a great senior year Whitt!—Nana & Grandad

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Name Cade Linquist Whitt Ward Hunter Richardson Derrick Weinheimer Gunner Lamb Braedon Williams Tanis Terbush Damon Kuehler Colby Linquist Stephen Kuehler Blayne Shuck

Groom Boys Ht. Class 6-3 Sr. 5-11 Sr. 5-9 Sr. 6-3 Sr. 6-1 Jr. 5-8 Jr. 6-2 Jr. 5-6 Soph. 6-1 Soph. 5-8 Fr. 5-9 Fr.

Coach: Tory Peet Asst. Coach: Tony Dodson 2018-2019 record: 10-15, 6-6 School phone: 248-7474 DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 20 Dec. 27 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14

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Groom Schedule

Opponent Booker Borger Follett Happy Highland Park New Home Tournament Higgins Fort Elliott Tournament McLean Bushland Lefors Hedley Shamrock White Deer

Place B G There X There X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X

Name Kaylie Ritter Ginna Miller Aubrey Ritter Graci Treadwell Kirsten Rice Payton Trevino Ali Friemel Briana Ritter Zadyn Johnson Kaylynn Bennett

Groom Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-7 F/G Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-9 F Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-6 G Jr. 5-5 G/F Soph. 5-5 G Fr. 5-6 F Fr. 5-2 G Fr. 5-5 G Fr.

Coach: Nicole Black Asst. Coach: Ashley Young 2018-2019 record: 18-9, 8-4 School phone: 248-7474 Player to watch: Aubrey Ritter Jan. 17 Jan. 24 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 18

Claude McLean Hedley Shamrock White Deer Claude McLean

Here Here Here There Here There There

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X X X X X X

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Two images associated with Groom are the Tiger mascot, left, and the Groom Cross, right. (Photos by Mike Haynes)

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McLean

Tigers and Rainer used to winning Brad Rainer, who has 20 years of head coaching experience, is the new Tigers’ basketball boss. But he’s already been on the scene at McLean. Rainer, a graduate of Floydada High School and Angelo State University, served as an assistant coach for McLean’s Class 1A state champion football team last fall. Previously, he coached basketball at Groom, Ben Crockett Meadow, Guthrie, Silverton, Meadow again and Follett. He owns a 186-158 overall boys coaching record. Rainer replaces Brittin East as the Tigers coach. East moved to Gruver to take the Greyhound job. In three years at McLean, East’s teams compiled 52-29 overall and 28-4 district records, winning conference championships the past two years. Last season, the Tigers went 11-1 in District 2-1A and 18-5 overall despite getting a late start (Dec. 21) because of McLean’s run to the Class 1A Division 1 six-man state football championship last fall. In the basketball playoffs, the Tigers defeated Happy 68-43 in the area round, White Deer 56-54 in the regional quarterfinals

Eric Bartley

Kade Reichman

Dalton Abshire

and Borden County 44-30 in the regional semifinals. Nazareth stopped McLean 51-39 in the regional finals, marking the second straight year Naz had eliminated the Tigers. Four star basketball players, who also were key cogs on the football title team, have moved on. Cayden Mann was the district basketball MVP. Chism Henderson, Bradley Hannon and Kater Tate all were all-district. Rainer inherits two returning starters and seven other letter winners from last year’s McLean team. Ben Crockett, a 6-1 senior forward, averaged 10 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists in earning all-district distinction. But Crockett is best known for his football prowess. He ran for nine (Continued on next page)

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touchdowns and passed for three more in the state championship game. He was the Amarillo Globe-News offensive football player of the year for all classifications. For the season, he rushed for 2,760 yards and 59 TDs. Eric Bartley, a 6-2 senior forward, is the other returning starter. Bartley (5 ppg, 8 rpg) also was an all-district pick. Rainer’s son, 5-9 senior guard Jackson Rainer, is one of five seniors on the Tigers’ roster Seniors Kade Reichman, a 6-4 post, and Dalton Abshire, a 6-1 forward, may provide some muscle underneath. Coach Rainer views that size and experience — with the five seniors and the playoff experience from the past two years — as the Tigers’ strengths. He is concerned about developing depth during the season and the possibility of another late start because of the success of the football team. “The kids will have to learn a new system really quickly,” he said. As for the keys to success this season, Coach Rainer said, “We have to use our size and athletic abilities to try and speed games up. We also want to play full-court games and use our speed.” The Tigers are scheduled to open their season Nov. 26 at Booker, pending football playoff conflicts. They may play in a mid-December tournament to be determined plus the Hale Center Tournament in late December. The Tigers will begin District 2-1A play Jan. 7. GIRLS The Lady Tigers soared in their first season under Coach TJ (Continued on next page)

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Caden Carter

Lily Reichman Dee Vasquez

Name Caden Carter Kinzie Cooper Shiana Hutchison Courtney Parsons Dee Vasquez Faith Moon Lily Reichman McKenzie Ellis Stormi Ketcherside Clare Long Ashlie Russell

McLean Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-7 G Sr. 5-3 G Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-11 P Jr. 5-3 G Soph. 5-8 P Soph. 5-7 G Soph. 5-4 G Soph.

Coach: TJ Fly Asst. Coach: Sheri Copenhaver 2018-2019 record: 28-6, 12-0 School phone: 997-2571 Players to watch: Caden Carter, Dee Vasquez, Faith Moon, Lily Reichman, Ashlie Russel

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Fly. With three starters and eight other letter winners back, expect more of the same this year. McLean was the runner-up in the West Texas High Tournament and third in the Gruver Holiday Tournament last season. The Lady Tigers raced through District 2-1A unbeaten at 12-0. The roll continued in the playoffs. McLean defeated Happy 58-47 in the area game, Groom 55-21 in the regional quarterfinals and New Home 42-33 in the regional semifinals. Nazareth finally stopped the Lady Tigers 42-33 in the regional finals, ending McLean’s season at 28-6. That marked the fifth straight season that Naz had eliminated McLean. “We had a great year last year,” Fly said. “We went undefeated in district for the second year in a row, culminating with a trip to the regional finals against the eventual state champions.” Three seniors — Hope Moon, Riley Patterson and Samantha Acuna — on that team have departed. Moon was the district MVP, TABC all-region and all-state, TSMCA first-team all-region and all-state, second team on the Amarillo Globe-News Girls Super Team and first team on the AGN Class 1A Golden Spread team. Patterson earned first-team all-district and TSMCA second-team all-region honors. Fly has four honored players on this year’s roster. The three returning starters, representing 27 points per game, are Caden Carter, Dee Vasquez and Lily Reichman. Carter, a 5-6 senior guard, averaged 12.6 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists last season and was named to the all-district and TSMCA all-region first teams. Carter is the stepsister of the

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departed Riley Patterson. Vasquez, a 5-3 senior guard, contributed 5.5 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2 apg and was first-team all-district last year. Reichman, a 5-11 junior post, scored 9 points, grabbed 8.2 rebounds and blocked 2.1 shots per game. She was honorable mention all-district. Fly rates Carter, Vasquez and Reichman as all-state candidates. The fourth honored player is 5-8 junior guard Faith Moon (3.3 ppg, 2.5 rpg). Faith Moon, honorable mention all-district last season, is the sister of Hope Moon. Faith Moon and 5-4 sophomore guard Ashlie Russell are players to watch, according to their coach. Fly describes the Lady Tigers’ strengths as “our quickness, basketball IQ, and most of our starters played a lot of minutes in big games, so they are battle-tested.” He’s concerned about the transfer of leadership. “We’re going to need our (five) seniors to step up and fill that leadership role last year’s seniors left behind, and developing our younger players,” Fly said. As for the keys for success this season, he said, “we will have to depend more on each other as a group than on one person.” Fly is a graduate of Lubbock Coronado High School and Wayland Baptist University. He is beginning his second year as a head coach with a 28-6 girls coaching record. The Lady Tigers will open at Perryton Nov. 12. Their home opener is Nov. 16 versus Spearman. They’ll play in the Memphis, West Texas High (Stinnett) and Hale Center tournaments. District play for the girls gets underway Jan.7.

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Jackson Rainer

Keaton Helton Jacob Watson

Cade Muniz Devin Holmes

Carson Carter

Ben Crockett of McLean brings the ball down in a playoff game against White Deer Feb. 26 in Pampa. Crockett is a senior in 2019-20 and in addition to basketball honors has been recognized multiple times. as one of the best football players in the state after the Tigers took the Class 1A Six-Man state championship in December 2018. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

Name Jackson Rainer Ben Crockett Eric Bartley Kade Reichman Dalton Abshire Jacob Watson Keaton Helton Devin Holmes Cade Muniz Carson Carter

McLean Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-9 G Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 6-2 F Sr. 6-4 P Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 5-11 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-8 F Jr. 5-7 G Soph.

Coach: Brad Rainer Asst. Coaches: Zach Kidd, Clinton Linman 2018-2019 record: 18-5, 11-1 School phone: 779-2301 Players to watch: Ben Crockett, Eric Bartley, Kade Reichman

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 19-21 Dec. 20 Dec. 27-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

McLean Schedule

Opponent Perryton Spearman Clarendon Valley Booker Amarillo Flames Memphis Tournament Fort Elliott Stinnett Tournament Claude Chillicothe Tournament Groom Hale Center Tournament Wheeler Lefors Hedley Shamrock White Deer Claude Groom Lefors Hedley Shamrock White Deer Claude Groom

Place B G There X Here X Here X Here X There X X There X There X There X X There X There X There X TBA X Here X There X X Here X There X X Here X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X Here X

Tiger Dalton Abshire rises to the basket against White Deer in February as McLean won a close game to advance in the playoffs. Abshire also is a standout on the Tiger six-man football team. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

McLean Super Boosters Good Luck Tigers & Lady Tigers! DJ’S TIRES, 308 S. Main Street, Derek Jones- Owner www.facebook.com/DJSTires, Store-806-208-4060 Cell-806-395-0168 Go Tigers and Lady Tigers!—McLean Ex-Student Association We are rooting for you Tigers and Lady Tigers!— Lady Tiger JV

Eric Bartley of McLean secures a rebound in a February playoff game against White Deer in Pampa. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

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Faith Moon

Courtney Parsons

Ashlie Russell

McLean’s Caden Carter maneuvers against Nazareth in a playoff game won by the eventual state champion Swiftettes. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

Lady Tiger Lily Reichman wrestles with a Nazareth opponent in one of McLean’s frequent playoff games against Nazareth. The Lady Tigers have run up against the Swiftette roadblock for the past five seasons. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

Dee Vasquez of McLean faces a lineup of Swiftettes and Lady Tigers during a playoff game against Nazareth. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

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Shamrock

DeBose debuts as Irish coach The Irish have a new coach. Jeff DeBose takes over from Mike Prescott, who coached the Irish for six years. Prescott has moved on to coach the girls team at Texline. DeBose is a graduate of Thomas B. Doherty High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. He served as an assistant at Channing (2012-2015) and Sunray (2016-2018), but this is his first head coaching job. The Irish, under Prescott, were runners-up in the Memphis Tournament last year. They were second in District 2-1A with a 10-2 record. In the playoffs, Shamrock whipped Follett 60-17 in bidistrict but lost to Nazareth 63-29 in the area round. That capped a 23-10 season. Wade Boyd was the major departure from that team. DeBose debuts with the luxury of four returning starters. Shea Jernigan, a 5-9 junior guard, averaged 20 points as a sophomore and earned TABC all-state and all-region honors. Sean Wright, a 5-10 sophomore guard (12 ppg), and Riley Owens, a 6-2 senior forward (10 ppg), both averaged in double digits. DeBose touts Jernigan, Wright and Owens as all-state candidates. Raj Patel, a 5-9 senior guard (6 ppg), also started last season.

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Shea Jernigan

Raj Patel

Sean Wright

Riley Owens

Cristian Mercado

Those four returning starters represent 48 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. A fifth returning letter winner, 6-3 junior forward/center (Continued on next page)

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Cristian Mercado, figures to see a lot of playing time. DeBose views the presence of the four returning starters, plus team speed and depth, as strengths for the Irish. More emphasis on defense will be the key for success this season, according to DeBose. The Irish will open their season Nov. 19 at Booker. The home opener is Nov. 26 when Boys Ranch visits Shamrock. The Irish will play in the Guthrie and Valley tournaments. The district opener is Jan. 3. GIRLS The Lady Irish may not have qualified for the playoffs but they took some steps forward last season under first-year Coach Todd Nichols. Shamrock took third in the Memphis Tournament and won the Channing Tournament. In District 2-1A, the Lady Irish won four of eight games, finishing fifth. Overall, they were 12-16 for the season. “We made a lot of progress within a new program with a very young team,” Nichols said. Alley Batenhorst, second-team all-district, was the key loss from last year’s team. The Lady Irish will be young again this season with only one senior on the roster. However, four starters and two other letter winners return, prompting Nichols to list age and experience as his team’s strengths. Leading the way will be 5-10 junior center Kynnan Shields, who averaged 12.2 points and 14 rebounds last season. She was a first-team all-district selection last year; Nichols sees her as an

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Kynnan Shields

Jocelyn Sanders

Micah Shortnacy

all-state candidate this season. The only senior on this year’s team — 5-6 guard Jocelyn Sanders — posted 6.8 points, 2.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists last season. The other returning starters are 5-6 sophomore guard Micah Shortnacy (6.7 ppg, 2.4 rpg) and 5-7 sophomore forward Abby O’Gorman (2.8 ppg, 3.8 rpg). Those four — all players to watch, in Nichols’ estimation — represent 28.5 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. He is concerned about the team’s depth. What are his keys for success this season? “Increasing basketball IQ and gaining more big-game experience,” he said. Nichols, a graduate of Lazbuddie High School and West Texas A&M University, is beginning his second season at Shamrock. He previously served as an assistant at Lazbuddie. The Lady Irish will open their season Nov. 9 at River Road. They’ll make their home debut Nov. 16 against Silverton. They’ll participate in the Guthrie and Valley tourneys. Their District 2-1A play begins Dec. 17.

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DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

Shamrock Schedule

Opponent River Road Follett Silverton Booker Higgins Boys Ranch Springlake-Earth Guthrie Tournament Wheeler Valley Tournament Hedley Wellington Sunray Fort Elliott White Deer Claude Groom McLean Lefors Hedley White Deer Claude Groom McLean Lefors Hedley

Place B G There X There X Here X There X X There X X Here X X Tulia X X There X X There X X There X X Here X TBD X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X

Shamrock Super Boosters Jason, Rachel, Braylee, Harper & Embry Adkins Go Irish!—Mike & Patty O’Gorman Go Lady Irish!—Jim Bob, Diana & Cole Nall Go Lady Irish!—John, Morgan, Tristan, Tatum & Allee

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Abby O’Gorman

Ashlyn Poole

Aubrey Dixon

Kylie Macina

Sydney Coole

Riley Sims

Go Irish!—Kenneth & Kay Martindale, Kit & Kylie Chad, Cari, Logan & Sydney Coole Have a great year Irish! Best of Luck Kit and Kylie!—Love, Dad, Mom & Colt Kenneth and Shona Shields Larry and Kay Dyess

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Name Jocelyn Sanders Kynnan Shields Ashlyn Poole Abby O’Gorman Micah Shortnacy Aubrey Dixon Kylie Macina Sydney Coole Riley Sims

Shamrock Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Sr. 5-10 P Jr. 5-8 P Jr. 5-7 F Soph. 5-6 G Soph. 5-6 G Soph. 5-4 G Fr. 5-6 F Fr. 5-7 F Fr.

Marshall Shortnacy

6-2

F

Jr.

Coach: Jeff DeBose Asst. Coaches: Clayton Garcia, Walter Bond 2018-2019 record: 23-10, 10-2 School phone: 256-3492 Players to watch: Shea Jernigan, Riley Owens, Sean Wright

Coach: Todd Nichols Asst. Coach: Jarrett Vickers 2018-2019 record: 12-16, 4-8 School phone: 256-3492 Players to watch: Jocelyn Sanders, Kynnan Shields, Abby O’Gorman, Micah Shortnacy

Name Cooper Bennett Shea Jernigan Riley Owens Sean Wright Christian Mercado Raj Patel Corbin Whitmire Kalen Carpenter Dalton Wright Justin Moon

Shamrock Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-2 F Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 6-2 F Sr. 5-10 G Soph. 6-3 F/P Jr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-10 G Sr. 6-2 F/P Soph. 5-9 G Jr. 6-0 G Soph.

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White Deer

Bucks have a new coach Tell Rutledge is the Bucks’ new coach. Rutledge, a graduate of Whitharral High School and Lubbock Christian University, has two years of head coaching experience — a year apiece at Zephyr and Leakey. He brings a 22-24 boys coaching record to White Deer. Rutledge succeeds Dylan Cox, who directed the Bucks to a 19-12 record in his Braedon Logue only season at the helm. White Deer wound up third in District 2-1A with a 9-3 loop mark. In the playoffs, White Deer defeated Fort Elliott 59-47 in bidistrict and Valley 52-39 in the area round before being nipped by McLean 56-54 in the regional quarterfinals. The only two seniors on that team — Kason Vigil and Gage Freeman — both won honors. Vigil was first-team all-region and first-team all-district. Freeman was the district defensive MVP. Three starters and two other letter winners return for the Bucks. Braeden Logue, a 6-0 senior guard, was first-team all-district. Rutledge recommends him as an all-state candidate this season. John Perriman, a 6-0 senior forward who was all-district honorable mention, and Drake Damron, a 6-4 senior center, also started.

John Perriman

Hunter Warminski

Drake Damron

Hunter Warminski, a 6-0 junior guard, lettered and earned all-district honorable mention coming off the bench. Jasper Chaney, a 6-3 senior forward, also lettered. Drake and Warminski are players to watch, according to Rutledge. Graysen Freeman, a 5-11 junior guard, is the younger brother of the departed Gage Freeman in a long line of Freemans who have played for the Bucks. Rutledge sees size and team chemistry as the Bucks’ strengths. He is concerned about the team’s shooting. He lists strong defense and good team chemistry as the keys for success this season. (Continued on page 308)

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That season will begin when the Bucks travel to Vega Nov. 26. The home opener is tentatively set for Dec. 10 against Wellington. The Bucks will play in their own tournament, plus the Lubbock Caprock event. The District opener is Jan. 3. GIRLS The Does had a young team last season, and it possibly showed in some close games. With only two seniors and one junior on the squad, the Does went 18-16 overall and 7-5 in District 2-1A, finishing fourth. “Last year was a learning experience as we missed the playoffs for the first time in four years,” Coach Rex Beck said. “We were playing our best basketball at the end of the season, beating third-place Groom and losing a close game to district champion McLean the last two games of the season. We should have learned how important free throws can be.” Hannah Grange, who was the district offensive player of the year as a junior and first-team all-district as a senior, is the major loss from that team. The outlook appears bright for the Does this season. “We have eight returning lettermen and four starters, so depth should be a strength for us,” Beck said. The four returning starters are Emily Bradley, Curstin Haiduk, Rebecca Tracy and Deborah Chesser. Bradley, a 5-8 senior guard, averaged 12.7 points and 7 rebounds in earning first-team all-district honors last season. Haiduk, a 5-6 junior guard, contributed 7.8 ppg, 4 rpg and 5 assists per game and was named all-district honorable mention. So was Tracy, a 6-0 junior post with 5.2 ppg, 9 rpg statistics.

Emily Bradley

Teagan Forney

Curstin Haiduk

Rebecca Tracy

Sydnee Hendrick

Chesser, a 5-5 junior guard, posted a 2.8 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg line. Those four starters represent 28.5 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Beck nominates Bradley, Haiduk and 5-7 junior guard Teagan Forney, a letter winner, as all-state candidates. Tracy and defensive standout Chesser are additional players to watch. “I feel like we made a lot of strides this summer that will carry over into the season,” Beck said. “Emily has the potential (Continued on next page)

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to dominate on both ends of the floor, and Rebecca has emerged as a very reliable rebounder. I feel Curstin has become a better shooter. Teagan really had a great summer, and I feel she will contribute tons.” Beck has several areas of concern. “We have to hit free throws. That is what ultimately cost us a trip to the playoffs last year,” he said. “We need a point guard to emerge. We need to limit turnovers.” Making those free throws is one of Beck’s keys to success this season. “As with any team, we must stay healthy and peak at the right time,” he said. “If we do what we can and should do, we will have a successful year.” Beck is a Lubbock Roosevelt High School and West Texas A&M University graduate. He is beginning his eighth season at White Deer. His Does have gone 108-57 the past five years. Beck previously coached at Bangs and sports a 229-152 overall girls coaching record as he enters his 14th season in the business. The Does will play host to Fort Elliott in the season opener Nov. 9. They’ll participate in the Spur, Roosevelt and White Deer tournaments. District 2-1A play for the girls begins Dec.17.

Shaylee Beck

Name Emily Bradley Shaylee Beck Curstin Haiduk Teagan Forney Deborah Chesser Rebecca Tracy Sydnee Hendrick Makenzie Crook Shaylin Weathers Jade Perriman Taysen Swires

Makenzie Crook

Shaylin Weathers

White Deer Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 P/G Sr. 5-7 P/G Sr. 5-6 G Jr. 5-7 P/G Jr. 5-5 P/G Jr. 6-0 P Jr. 5-7 P Jr. 5-7 P/G Jr. 5-4 G Soph. 5-6 P Soph. 5-5 G Fr.

Coach: Rex Beck Asst. Coach: Cassidy Bichsel 2018-2019 record: 18-16, 7-5 School phone: 883-2311 Players to watch: Emily Bradley, Curstin Haiduk, Teagan Forney, Rebecca Tracy, Deborah Chesser

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Name Karson Ketchum Braeden Logue Graysen Freeman Jasper Chaney Hunter Warminski John Perriman Drake Damron Preston Sons Austin Gollihugh

White Deer Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 G Soph. 6-0 G Sr. 5-11 G Jr. 6-3 F Sr. 6-0 G Jr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-4 P Sr. 6-0 G Sr. 5-10 G Sr.

Coach: Tell Rutledge Asst. Coaches: Kellen Kirkland, Justin Rucker 2018-2019 record: 19-12, 9-3 School phone: 883-2311 Players to watch: Braeden Logue, Drake Damron, Hunter Warminski

White Deer Super Boosters Go Bucks and Does!—Timmy, Lori, & Avery Bichsel

White Deer gets a rebound in a close playoff game with McLean at Pampa in February. The Bucks fell just short of advancing in a 56-54 loss. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

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DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 30 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

White Deer Schedule

Opponent Fort Elliott Clarendon Perryton West Texas Spur Tournament Vega Stratford Lubbock Roosevelt Tournament Wellington White Deer Tournament Lefors Panhandle Hedley West Texas Caprock Tournament Dalhart Shamrock Valley Claude Groom McLean Lefors Hedley Shamrock Claude Groom McLean Lefors Hedley

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Place B G Here X Here X Here X There X There X There X X There X X There X Here X Here X X Here X Here X There X There X Lubbock X There X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X Here X

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The Bucks enter a time-out after a positive play in the regional quarterfinals against McLean in February. The game was played at Pampa. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

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The White Deer cheerleaders keep the spirit flowing in a close boys playoff game with McLean in February at McNeely Fieldhouse in Pampa. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

Fans of the Bucks make their allegiance known as the White Deer and McLean boys and battle in the regional quarterfinals at Pampa in February. (Photo by Mike Haynes)

District 3-1A Lady Matadors will be young again

Adrian

The Lady Matadors will be young this season with only two seniors on the roster. But that’s two more than they had last year. Adrian finished 10-18 overall a year ago and placed sixth in District 3-1A with a 3-9 record. “Numbers were low, but we got better and our young players gained a lot of experience,” Coach Randy Yelverton said. “We had players playing out of position because of our lack of numbers. We didn’t have any seniors, so it will help this season.” Returning senior guard Biounce Ruiz earned first-team alldistrict distinction last season. Senior guard Haley Andrade, junior post Jada Green and junior forward Hhanna Acevedo are other outstanding players to watch, according to Yelverton. “We have good numbers, and our attitude has been positive. We have size inside, and our outside shooting should be better,” Yelverton said. “Fundamentally, we are getting to be where we need to be. We are quicker than last year, which should help us defensively. We should work better as a team because the kids are more familiar with what we want to do.” His main concerns are a young bench and injuries. Assessing the keys for success this season, Yelverton said,

Biounce Ruiz

Haley Andrade

Jada Green

“Staying healthy and keep working on getting better at what we want to do.” A big season could net Yelverton his 500th career girls coaching victory. He’s 21 shy with a 479-159 record for a .751 winning percentage. Those wins have been accumulated in a variety of schools in his 30-year coaching career. He’s coached in Groom, Fort Elliott, Caprock, Clarendon, Crane, Jacksonville, El Campo, Tyler and in Houston before coming to Adrian, where he’s in year 4. Yelverton is a graduate of Shepherd High School and the University of Nevada. The Lady Matadors will open at Silverton Nov. 9. Their (Continued on next page)

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home opener will be Nov. 15 against Lazbuddie. They’ll play in the Lazbuddie and Adrian tourneys. District 3-1A competition begins Dec.17. BOYS The Matadors are even younger. There are no seniors on this year’s roster, which features six juniors, four sophomores and one freshman. Adrian lost two honored seniors — first-team all-district post Coy Hammit and honorable mention all-district guard Johnny Coronado — off last year’s team, which wound up 9-13 overall. The Matadors were the consolation champions of the Miami Tournament and placed fifth in District 3-1A with a 4-8 record. Coach Josh Strickland saw some positives. “Last year was a huge step in the right direction to getting this program back to where it needs to be,” he said. The game experience gained by the seven returning letter winners is a strength. “Most of this year’s team has been on the varsity since they were freshmen and had to play,” Strickland said. “Also, (there’s) familiarity between the coach and players.” Three of those lettered juniors — 5-9 forward Jake Wells, 5-7 guard Jeffrey Garman and 6-1 post Tanner Read — are outstanding players to watch, according to their coach. The other returning letter winners are 5-9 junior guard Luis Acosta Travizo, 5-9 junior guard Reese Green, 6-9 sophomore forward Ethan Altman and 6-4 sophomore post Mason Owens. Strickland’s main concerns are athleticism and proven scoring.

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Name Luis Acosta Travizo Jeffery Garman Reese Green Tanner Read Gabriel Valle Jake Wells Ethan Altman Levi Frazier Mason Owens Cesar Reyes Santiago Acevedo

Adrian Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-9 G Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 6-1 P Jr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-9 F Jr. 6-0 F Soph. 5-5 G Soph. 6-4 P Soph. 5-8 G Soph. 5-11 G Fr.

Coach: Josh Strickland 2018-2019 record: 9-13, 4-8 School phone: 538-6203 Players to watch: Jeffery Garman, Tanner Read, Jake We He said the keys to success this season will be “continuing to build upon skill development and basketball intelligence.” Strickland is beginning his third season at Adrian. The SanfordFritch High School and West Texas A&M University graduate previously coached at Lockney and Sterling Center. He is the older brother of Tanner Strickland, the boys coach at Highland Park. The Matadors begin play Nov. 15 at home against Lazbuddie. They’ll participate in the Lazbuddie, their own Adrian and the Lefors tournaments. District 3-1A play gets under way Jan. 3 for the boys.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Hhanna Acevedo

Kiersen Green

Brenna Osborn

Adrian Girls Name Biounce Ruiz Kiersen Green Haley Andrade Madison Clark Jada Green Yovany Fernandez Brenna Osborn Janessa Salas Hhanna Acevedo Hanna Gruhlkey

Pos. Class G Sr. F Soph. G Sr. G Soph. P Jr. G Jr. P Jr. G Fr. F Jr. G Fr.

Coach: Randy Yelverton 2018-2019 record: 10-18, 3-9 School phone: 538-6203 Players to watch: Haley Andrade, Jada Green, Hhanna Acevedo

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DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 22-23 Nov. 25 Dec. 3 Dec. 6-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 13 Dec. 16 Dec. 17 Dec. 30 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 14

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Adrian Schedule

Opponent Silverton Groom Fort Elliott Lazbuddie Holy Cross Lazbuddie Hart Boys Ranch Adrian Tournament Friona Lefors Tournament Lefors Canyon Hartley Lefors Texline Nazareth Channing Happy Wildorado Hartley Nazareth Texline Happy Channing Hartley

Place B G There X There X Panhandle X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X There X Here X Here X There X There X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Adrian Super Boosters We wish Haley Andrade the Best for her Senior Year! Dream Big!—The Gaitan Family

We wish the Matadors and Lady Matadors a Great Season!—The Green Family Good Luck Matadors and Lady Matadors!—The Coaching Staff Nazarene Family Church, Hereford Welcomes You! First Baptist Church Adrian supports the Matadors and Lady Matadors! Ag Specialist wishes the Lady Matadors a great year!

Happy

Cowboys looking to rebuild Coach Travis Dawson may face his biggest challenge as he begins his fourth season at Happy. With only one starter returning, there’s some rebuilding to be done. The Cowboys finished second in the Vega Tournament and grabbed key nonconference wins over Dimmitt, Dumas and Sunray last season. Happy finished second in District 3-1A with a 9-3 record. In the playoffs, Happy dumped Hart 76-46 in bidistrict before bowing to McLean 68-43 in the area game. That ended a 19-11 season. “Good overall year in a tough district,” Dawson said. “Had a strong senior class, led by four seniors.” Those four seniors — Jackson Davis, Cy Middleton, Justin Bressler and Kai Moore — have departed. Davis was TABC all-region and the district offensive MVP; Middleton was TABC all-region; Bressler and Moore were all-district. Senior 5-10 guard Chance Stockett is the lone returning starter this year. Stockett averaged 6.1 points, 2.4 rebounds and 2 assists last season. Dawson tabs 6-0 junior post Arik Coile (5.3 ppg, 4.6 rpg) as another player to watch. Cole lettered last year. Three other letter winners — 5-8 senior guard Connor Sperry (2.3 ppg, 2 rpg), 6-0 junior guard Stetson Jameson (4.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg) and 5-10 sophomore guard Pace Bressler (3.3 ppg) — are back.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Chance Stockett

Arik Coile

Stetson Jameson

Connor Sperry

Pace Bressler

Dawson lists depth and the competition for playing time as Cowboy strengths. Conversely, replacing four starters, dealing with inexperience (Continued on next page)

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and establishing roles are his areas of concern. He said the keys for success will be defense, rebounding and taking care of the basketball. “Jelling as a team after lots of turnovers last year and the previous years,” he also said. Dawson is a graduate of Panther Creek High School and Howard Payne University. In his three seasons at Happy, his Cowboys have gone 61-28 and reached the playoffs every year. His first team went all the way to the state Class 1A semifinals. Before coming to Happy, Dawson coached at Robert Lee from 2013 to 2016. His overall boys coaching record is 88-58. Happy’s season opener is at Springlake-Earth Nov. 19. The home opener is set for Dec. 10 against Panhandle. The Cowboys will play in the Vega, Valley and Hale Center tournaments. District play begins Dec.20. GIRLS Rhyan Daugherty faces some challenges, too, as he takes over as the Cowgirls’ coach. First, Daugherty is the fourth Happy girls coach in as many years. That makes continuity a problem. Second, six seniors and two transfers have moved on from last year’s team. Only three letter winners return, so experience is sparse. Daugherty is a graduate of Des Moines, New Mexico, High School and Oklahoma Panhandle State University. He coached in Logan City, New Mexico, and Boise City, Oklahoma, before moving to Sunray, where he coached boys the past two years. Last year his Sunray team went 17-15 overall and 6-4 in district, then lost an overtime decision in bidistrict.

Kenli Johnson

Aimee McCarley

Emily Berry

Kinley Gibson

Jessica Smith

He owns a 121-48 career coaching record. Daugherty succeeds Sarah Allen, who directed the Cowgirls to a 26-8 record last season. Happy was 10-2 in District 3-1A, finishing second to Nazareth, which later won its third straight 1A state championship. Allen has joined Betsy Baughman’s staff at Class 6A Tascosa. The Cowgirls whipped Hart 93-28 in bidistrict before losing to McLean 58-47 in the area round. (Continued on page 320)

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Hannah Drake

Ashlyn White

Sydni Middleton

Name Kinley Gibson Kenli Johnson Aimee McCarley Emily Berry Jessica Smith Ashlyn White Hannah Drake Sydni Middleton Bailee Baggerman

Happy Girls Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 P Sr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-5 G Soph. 5-2 G Soph. 5-6 P Soph. 5-8 P Soph. 5-7 P Soph. 5-9 P Soph. 5-5 G Soph.

Coach: Rhyan Daugherty Asst. Coach: Charles Byrd 2018-2019 record: 26-8 School phone: 558-5311 Players to watch: Kenli Johnson, Aimee McCarley, Kinley Gibson

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This year’s three returning letter winners are 5-9 junior guard Kenli Johnson, 5-5 sophomore guard Aimee McCarley and 6-0 senior post Kinley Gibson. Johnson is the only one who saw considerable varsity action, averaging 9 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists last year. “Kenli Johnson should be able to score and play defense. She has every move in her bag. It will be a matter of getting her space and having her use her skills,” Daugherty said. “Aimee McCarley will be great on defense and scoring as well. She is a hard-nosed kid that will outwork everyone in the gym. “Kinley Gibson will add size and experience in the post. We expect her to be a presence at the rim. I believe her rebounding and size will really help get us started on transition offense.” Daugherty describes his team’s strength as its youth. Gibson is the Cowgirls’ only senior and Johnson the only junior, to go along with seven sophomores. “The great thing about this year’s team is all but one will be returning for another season,” Daugherty said. “We are really young, but it will help us build the culture that we want to establish.” However, the team’s youth and inexperience rank as his chief

Name Chance Stockett Connor Sperry Arik Coile Stetson Jameson Kristian Wilhite Jordan Wilhite Pace Bressler Gus Fields

Happy Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 6-0 P Jr. 6-0 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr. 5-11 P Jr. 5-10 G Soph. 5-5 G Soph.

Coach: Travis Dawson Asst. Coaches: Stacy Perryman, Jimmy Moore 2018-2019 record: 19-11, 9-3 School phone: 558-5311 Players to watch: Chance Stockett, Arik Coile

(Continued on page 322)

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Happy Super Boosters Good Luck This Season Cowboys!—The Sperry Family Go Bresslers! Go Caleb!—The Garza Family Go Cowboys!—The Jesse Reyes Family Go Cowboys and Cowgirls!—The Flowers Family Go Cowboys and Cowgirls!—Jill White Good Luck Cowboys and Cowgirls!—Lloyd & Ann Rahlfs

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concerns. What are Daugherty’s keys for success this season? “Staying together as a unit and winning each day,” he said. “Being in the same district as the state champs (23 times) brings a lot of light to that matchup. If we just focus on ourself and win each day, that will turn into winning the week, month, season, etc.” The Cowgirls will open the season at home, entertaining Valley on Nov. 12. They’ll take part in the Vega, White Deer and Littlefield tourneys. District competition begins Dec. 20.

Max, Brandi, Brayden & Bryson White Good Luck!—The Odom Family Good Luck!—Robby, Laura, T.S. & Sadie Bow Go Cowboys and Cowgirls!—Clint, Christi, Teagen & Kyton Johnson Go Cowboys! Have a great season!—Jack & Gayle Rhoades Have an outstanding season Cowgirls!—Jalane & Macee Johnson Go Cowboys and Cowgirls!—Eddie Joe & Lynn Pearson Good Luck!—The Odom Family Go Chance and Sydni!—Nana Go Cowboys and Cowgirls!—Ronnie Middleton Good Luck Cowgirls!—Bill & Terri Pearson Go Cowgirls!—Johnson Family

DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 23 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

Happy Schedule

Opponent Valley Farwell Springlake-Earth Stratford Vega Vega Tournament Wellington Panhandle White Deer Tournament Valley Tournament Sunray Texline Littlefield Invitational Tourney Hale Center Tournament Whitharral Wildorado Channing Hartley Adrian Nazareth Texline Channing Wildorado Adrian Hartley Nazareth Lubbock Titans

Place B G Here X Here X There X X There X There X X There X X Here X Here X There X There X There X Here X X There X There X There X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X Here X X Here X

Hartley

New coach has experience available John Williams is the new Tigers’ coach. Williams is a graduate of Houston Sharpstown High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and his master’s at the University of Texas-Permian Basin. He’s has four years of head basketball coaching experience — at Sterling Center and Balmorhea. Ethan Vincent Williams succeeds Larry Franks, who is still on the Hartley ISD staff. Franks’ Tigers went 11-14 overall and 4-8 in District 3-1A, finishing fifth. Three seniors graduated off that team, but Williams has nine letter winners on hand. Four of those nine are seniors, three are juniors and two are sophomores. The seniors are 6-2 forward Ethan Vincent, 6-3 forward Kyler Sullivan, 5-10 forward Marshall Johnson and 5-10 forward Michael Green. The juniors are 5-11 guard Jorge Chavira, 6-2 forward Kholten Ellis and 6-2 forward Jacob Drew. The sophomores are 5-10 guard Luke Smulders and 5-6 guard 322

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Kyler Sullivan

Marshall Johnson

Michael Green

Zane Thompson. Williams views the nine returning veterans, along with their maturity and increased athleticism, as the Tigers’ strengths. He listed the keys for success this season as: • Finding the best rotations for offense and defense; • Improving team defense and overall athleticism the entire season; • Practicing and playing at top potential every practice and every game. The Tigers will open their season at home Nov. 15 against the home-schooled Amarillo Flames. They’ll play in the Tascosa JV, Memphis and Fort Elliott tournaments. District 3-1A play begins Dec. 19. (Continued on page 324) 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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GIRLS The Lady Tigers struggled last season, finishing 8-19 overall and 5-7 in District 3-1A. Their fourth-place finish didn’t get them into the playoffs. “We had a very young, inexperienced team last year,” Coach Dedra Hill said. “It was a rebuilding period.” The rebuilding may pay off in a finished project this season. The Lady Tigers have four starters and two other letter winners returning. Three of the returning starters earned district honors last year. Senior guard Khodee Gomez averaged 7 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists and was an all-district pick. So was junior guard Sandra Mota (8 ppg, 3 rpg). Junior post Elva Soto (5 ppg, 5 rpg) was an all-district honorable mention. But the fourth returning starter, senior post Mariana Mendoza (10 ppg, 5 rpg), may be the best of the lot. “Marianna Mendoza was an important part of our team last year,” Hill said. “She had a knee injury at the beginning of district play, so we had to play most of our district games without her. She will be a difference-maker.” The four returning starters represent 30 points per game, based on last season’s scoring statistics. The other two returning letter winners are junior guard Casey Miller (3 ppg, 3 rpg) and senior post Jazmin Romero. Sophomore guard Mallory Sandivol has caught Hill’s eye.

(Continued from page 322)

Name Ethan Vincent Kyler Sullivan Marshall Johnson Michael Green Jorge Chavira Kholten Ellis Jacob Drew Luke Smulders Zane Thompson

Hartley Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-2 F Sr. 6-3 F Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-10 F Sr. 5-11 G Jr. 6-2 F Jr. 6-2 F Jr. 5-10 G Soph. 5-6 G Soph.

Coach: John Williams Asst. Coach: Hayden Smith 2018-2019 record: 4-8 School phone: 365-4458

Jorge Chavira

Luke Smulders

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Kholten Ellis

Jacob Drew

Khodee Gomez

Mariana Mendoza

Sandra Mota

Elva Soto

Casey Miller

“Mallory Sandivol will help us as a strong guard during district play,” Hill said. “She transferred last year and will be able to play varsity when we begin district play.” And she expects the freshmen to step up and help. “We are more experienced this year and know what to expect,” Hill said. “We will be able to fight through adversity better. I think our team chemistry and communication will be better as well.” She is concerned about the Lady Tigers playing a tough schedule; consequently, they’ll have to be very prepared game to game. “We will just need some scorers to step up and be productive,” she said. ‘They are working hard to compete in this tough district.” Hill is a graduate of Mountain View, Oklahoma, High School and the University of Oklahoma. She’s beginning her 13th season at Hartley, having previously coached in the Dalhart ISD system. Esther VanDijk, a former Hartley player, is Hill’s assistant. The Lady Tigers will debut in the Lefors girls tourney Nov. 8-9. Their home opener will be Nov. 12 against Friona. They’ll also participate in the Fort Elliott tournament. District 3-1A competition for the girls begins Dec. 17. Hartley Girls Name Pos. Class Khodee Gomez G Sr. Mariana Mendoza P Sr. Sandra Mota G Jr. Elva Soto P Jr. Casey Miller G Jr. Jazmin Romero P Sr. Sayler Sullivan G Soph. Mallory Sandivol G Soph. Coach: Dedra Hill Asst. Coach: Esther VanDijk 2018-2019 record: 8-19, 5-7 School phone: 365-4458 Players to watch: Mariana Mendoza, Mallory Sandivol

Zane Thompson 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Good luck, Tigers & Lady Tigers! DATE Nov. 8-9 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17

Hartley Schedule

Opponent Lefors Tournament Friona Amarillo Flames Amarillo San Jacinto Ascension Academy Boise City Ascension Academy Memphis Tournament Amarillo Flames Fort Elliott Tournament Adrian

Place B G There X Here X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X There X X Briscoe X X Here X

Dec. 19 Dec. 30 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 14

Wildorado Jayton Hart Nazareth Happy Texline Channing Adrian Wildorado Nazareth Texline Happy Adrian

There There There Here Here Here Here There Here Here There There Here

X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X X X X X X X X X X X

Nazareth

Swiftettes seek fourth straight state title State championships are expected in Nazareth. So naturally, the Swiftettes filled the bill again. The Naz girls won their third straight Class 1A state championship last spring and fifth in the past six years. What’s more, it was the Swiftettes’ 23rd state title. The reign began in 1977. When Nazareth downed Dodd City (for the second straight year in the finals) 54-33 in San Antonio’s Alamodome, it was the Swiftettes’ 17th win in a row and put the finishing touches on a 32-6 season. Earlier, the Swiftettes had absorbed tough losses to higher classification teams such as Amarillo High, Canyon, Panhandle and Tascosa. But they knocked off Jim Ned in the semifinals of the Fort Worth Whataburger Tournament before losing to Wall in the title game. Moving to a new district (3-1A) didn’t faze the Swiftettes a bit. In winning the district crown at 12-0, they were perfect in league play for the sixth straight season. No district foe came closer than 24 points. In the playoffs, Naz rolled over Claude 58-21 in the area round, Follett 69-21 in the regional quarterfinals, Ropes 66-35 in the regional semifinals, McLean 42-33 in the regional finals and Hermleigh 48-17 in the state semis. The nine-point win over McLean was the only close call. “Last year’s team endured a tough schedule and high expectations to reach their goal of winning a state championship,” Coach 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Cambrie Heiman

April Schmucker

Emma Kleman

Eric Schilling said. “They had great team chemistry on and off the court, and that played a huge part in their overall success. They had a lot of big-game experience that really helped them down the stretch in big playoff games.” Nazareth lost four talented players, led by all-everything Blakely Gerber, off that team. Gerber was the district offensive MVP, the state tourney MVP, second-team on the Amarillo Globe-News Girls Super Team, an AGN Golden Spread 1A team member, TSMCA all-region and all-state, TGCA all-state, TABC all-region, all-state and the TABC 1A player of the year. Gerber, who averaged 18 points and 5 rebounds, signed to play with Wayland Baptist University. Hallie Kleman was all-district, on the state all-tourney team, TSMCA second-team all-region, TGCA all-state and TABC all-region and all-state. (Continued on next page) 1A

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All-district Lexis Nieves and all-district honorable mention Emily Dyer also departed. But the beat goes on in Nazareth. Three starters and three other letter winners are back as the Swiftettes seek to match their fourth consecutive state crown, a feat accomplished twice already in their rich tradition. Cambrie Heiman, a 6-0 senior forward, averaged 19 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists last season. She was on the all-state tourney team, the district MVP, a member of the AGN Girls Super Team, the Golden Spread 1A player of the year, TSMCA first-team all region and player of the year, TGCA all-state and TABC all-region and all-state. April Schmucker, a 5-8 senior guard, contributed 6 ppg, 5 rpg, 4 apg in earning all-district, TGCA all-state and TABC all-region honors. Emma Kleman, younger sister of the departed Hallie Kleman, is the third returning starter. The 5-7 junior guard (8 ppg, 4 rpg, 4 apg) was the district newcomer of the year and TGCA all-state. Schilling recommends Heiman, Schmucker and Emma Kleman as all-state candidates. Those three returning starters represent 33 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics, The list of returning honorees doesn’t stop there. Letter winners Amy Schilderink and Merry Gerber were honorable mention all-district. Schilderink, a 6-0 senior post, logged 4ppg, 5 rpg stats. Gerber, a 6-0 junior forward (6 ppg, 4 rpg, 2 apg) is the sister of departed Blakely Gerber. Schilderink and Merry Gerber are additional players to watch, according to Schilling.

Merry Gerber

Name Amy Schilderink April Schmucker Cambrie Heiman Emma Kleman Merry Gerber Addie Dyer Maggie Nelson Kyanne Dunn

Addie Dyer

Makenzy Corrales

Nazareth Girls Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 P Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 5-7 G Jr. 6-0 F Jr. 5-8 F Soph. 5-6 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr.

Coach: Eric Schilling Asst. Coach: Kelsi Pittillo 2018-2019 record: 32-6, 12-0 School phone: 945-2231 Players to watch: Amy Schilderink, April Schmucker, Cambrie Heiman, Emma Kleman, Merry Gerber Naz keeps it all in the family. Another letter winner, 5-8 sophomore forward Addie Dyer (3 ppg, 2 rpg), is the sister of (Continued on next page)

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Emily Dyer, a senior on last year’s team. Schilling lists size, experience and leadership as the Swiftettes’ strengths. He is concerned about the team’s depth. “Players are going to have to step up to fill the voids left by ones that graduated,” Schilling said. “We have a tough regular season schedule, so it’s going to be very important that we stay focused on the process and work to improve every day. We also have a lot of experience, so there are several girls that understand what it takes to make a good run.” Schilling played on the 2002 and 2003 boys state championship teams at Nazareth. After three years as an assistant coach at Panhandle, the West Texas A&M University graduate returned to his high school alma mater to coach the Swiftettes. He’s beginning his ninth season at Naz with a 252-43 girls coaching mark. The Swiftettes will open Nov. 12 at two-time Class 5A state champion Amarillo High. The home opener is Nov. 15 against Vega. The Swiftettes will play in the Abernathy tournament, their own tourney and the Fort Worth Whataburger event. They’ll begin District 3-1A play Dec. 17. BOYS The Swifts came so close ... again. Coming on the heels of reaching the state Class 1A championship game the previous season, Naz made it to the state semifinals last spring. The Swifts won their own tournament for the first time and raced through a perfect 8-0 District 3-1A campaign. In the playoffs, Naz rolled over Shamrock 63-29 in the area game, Texline 63-37 in the regional quarterfinals and SpringlakeEarth 61-24 in the regional semifinals. The Swifts held off McLean

Nathaneal Van Dijk

Brayden Dyer Kaden Cleavinger

Name Nathaneal VanDijk Brayden Dyer Eric Hill Kaden Cleavinger Aidan Moore Luke Betzen Derek Dyer Chance Hochstein Jayden High Trent Gerber

Nazareth Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-3 G/F Sr. 5-11 G Sr. 6-4 P Sr. 6-5 G/F Jr. 6-3 P Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 6-1 P Jr. 6-0 G Jr. 5-11 G Jr. 5-11 G Soph.

Coach: Taylor Schulte Asst. Coaches: Scout Teal, Steven Moore 2018-2019 record: 25-10, 8-0 School phone: 945-2231 Players to watch: Nathaneal VanDijk, Brayden Dyer, Kaden Cleavinger, Aidan Moore, Luke Betzen

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51-39 to win the regional championship. But in San Antonio, Jayton’s Tye Scogin went coast-to-coast and made a short jumper with one second left to nip Naz 38-37 in the state semifinals. That ended the Swifts’ season at 25-10. “It was a great year to be a part of,” Coach Taylor Schulte said. “It didn’t end the way we wanted it to, but it was great to make another run at it. I was proud of the way we kept improving throughout the year.” Three key Swifts have moved on from that team. The key departure is Jake Gerber, who will shoot his future baskets at West Texas A&M University. Gerber averaged 23.6 points and 8 rebounds and was the district MVP, a member of the Amarillo Globe-News Boys Super Team, the AGN Class 1A Golden Spread player of the year, TABC and TSMCA all-region and all-state and TSMCA player of the year. He is one of a long line of Nazareth’s Gerbers. Brady Robb and Tristan Nelson, both all-district, are gone, too. However, Schulte welcomed back three returning starters and three other letter winners this fall. Nathaneal VanDijk, a 6-3 senior guard/forward, averaged 10.3 points and 4.3 rebounds last season. He was TSMCA all-region and all-state, TABC all-region and all-state and a member of the AGN Class 1A Golden Spread team. VanDijk’s older sisters were standouts for past Swiftette teams. Kaden Cleavinger, a 6-5 junior guard/forward, was an alldistrict selection last year. Schulte nominates Cleavinger and Van Dijk as all-state candidates. Brayden Dyer, a 5-11 senior guard, rounds out the trio of

Nazareth’s Nathaneal VanDijk prepares to shoot outside the three-point line against McLean last season. (Photo by Mackenzie Teal)

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returning starters. Dyer, 6-3 junior post Aidan Moore and 5-10 junior guard Luke Betzen are additional outstanding players to watch, according to Schulte. Another returning letter winner, 6-4 senior post Eric Hill, provides size and depth up front. That returning experience provides a strength for the Swifts, according to Schulte. He is concerned about his team’s shooting. “We did lose three starters off of last year’s team, but we also had a group of younger guys play meaningful minutes,” Schulte said. “I think that experience will help us out. We will have to handle the ball and give us opportunities to score.” Schulte is beginning his third year coaching at his alma mater, where he played on two state championship teams in 2006 and 2007. His two Swift squads have won 56 and lost 16, reaching the state tourney both years. He is a graduate of Texas Tech University. The Swifts’ first game will be Nov. 22 when they entertain Childress. They’ll try to repeat their title in the Nazareth Tournament and also take part in the Martin’s Mill and Littlefield tourneys. District play for the boys gets underway Dec. 20.

All the way, Naz!

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Nazareth Super Boosters Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Heath & Nicole Schulte Go Naz!—Stanley & Cindy Gerber Good Luck Swifts and Swiftettes!—Kirk & Sandy Farris Good Luck Swifts and Swiftettes!—The Betzen Family Go Swifts and Swiftettes! Fight Hard!—Emily & Cameron Betzen Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Randy & Monette Schilling Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Marcus, Celina, Bryson, Ethan, Emery & Hadley Brockman Good Luck Swifts and Swiftettes! Go Emma and Aidan!—Ralph & Sharon Brockman Go Naz!—Nathan, Elaine, Presley, Townli, Quinlee & Hallie Wheeler Go Naz!—Monty, Kristin, Aidan, Emerson & McKinley Moore Good Luck Swifts and Swiftettees! Go Emma!— Mark, Missy, Cole & Hallie Kleman

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Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Tyson, Kim, Trace, Morgan & Brock Schylte Go Naz!—Mitchell, Lindsey, Madison, Kate, Barrett, Drew & Owen Brockman Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Hubert & Joan Backus Go Naz! Once a Swiftette, always a Swiftette!— Mark, Heather Dawn, Jett, Kambyl, Crew & Boston McLarty Good Luck for another successful season!— Darrin & Jennifer Heiman Best of Luck Swifts and Swiftettes!—Greg, Cynthia & Harley Gerber Go Swifts and Swiftetes!—Gabby, Izzy & Austin Heck Best of Luck to the Swifts and Swiftettes!—Rodney & Mona Schulte Good Luck Swifts and Swiftettes!—Denny & Pill Heiman Good Luck Swifts and Swiftettes!—Keith & Karleen Hoelting Go Naz!—Stan & Shelley Schulte Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Toby Gerber Go Naz!—Kim & Kathy Rundell

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Aidan Moore

Derek Dyer

Luke Betzen

Eric Hill

Trent Gerber

Have a great season Swifts and Swiftettes!— Marty, Tisha, Blakely, Merry & Kattey Gerber Good Luck Swifts and Swiftettes!—Jordy, Maegan, Aubree, Ace, Harper & Tag Rowland Go Naz!—Norman & Stac Gerber Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Evan, Macee, Leo & Finley Huseman

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Go Naz!—Stanley & Rhonda Dyer Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Mickey, Meredith, Chance, Creed, Callen & Cash Hochstein Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Dustin & Latrice Dyer Best of Luck Swifts and Swiftetees!—John, Julie & Jolee Pigg Go Naz! Daryl, Marsha, Lincoln, Cameron & Gemma Pohlmeier Go Swifts and Swiftettes!—Dan & Ethel Schmucker Go Naz!—Bobbie Schmucker We Love #3! Excited for your Senior Year!— John, Lynsey, Kamre, Charly & Braeli Fuller Go Naz!—Joe & Dana Kleman Best of Luck Swifts and Swiftettes!—Tom & Rita Hoelting Go Naz! Have a great Senior year April!—Marvin, Gwen & Abby Schmucker Good Luck Swifts and Swiftettes! Go Kaden!— Codi, Cassie, Kinzi & Kambri Cleavinger Go Naz!—Eric, Mandy, Brynli, Jaxton, Kaylie & Konli Schilling

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

April Schmucker, left, and Amy Schilderink work out front at the regional tournament in Levelland on the way to the 2019 Class 1A state championship. (Photo by Mackenzie Teal) DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Nov. 25 Nov. 26 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 13 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 27-28 Dec. 30 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

Nazareth Schedule

Opponent Amarillo High Vega Stratford Abernathy Tournament Childress Panhandle Vega Canyon Dimmitt Tulia Nazareth Tournament Tascosa Martins Mill Tournament Lipan Wildorado Lubbock Titans Channing Littlefield Tournament Whataburger Tournament Dalhart Hartley Adrian Texline Lubbock Christian Happy Wildorado Channing Adrian Hartley Lubbock Trinity Texline Happy Wildorado

Place B G There X Here X TBA X There X Here X There X There X Here X TBA X Here X Here X X Here X There X Hermleigh X Here X Here X There X X There X Fort Worth X Here X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X

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Swiftette Emma Kleman brings the ball down the court in Nazareth’s 2019 state semifinal win over Hermleigh in San Antonio. (Photo by Cindy Huseman)

April Schmucker of Nazareth plays defense against Hermleigh in the Swiftettes’ 2019 state semifinal win over the Lady Cardinals at the Alamodome. (Photo by Cindy Huseman)

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Cambrie Heiman eyes the basket against Jayton. Heiman, a senior this year, is shooting for her - and the Swiftettes’ - fourth straight state title. (Photo by Mackenzie Teal)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Texline

Tornadoes plan to do better Veteran Coach Coby Beckner had a simple reply when asked to evaluate last year’s Tornadoes’ season. “We can do better!” he said. Not that the Tornadoes were bad last season. They scored wins over Shamrock and Sunray in the Texline Tournament. They tied for second in District 3-1A with a 9-3 mark. In the playoffs, Texline defeated Anton William Luther 75-41 in bidistrict and Booker 57-56 in the area round. Nazareth ended the Tornadoes’ season with a 63-37 decision in the regional quarterfinals. Naz went on to reach the Class 1A state semifinals; Texline concluded its season at 24-10. Two key players from that team have departed. Sean Grimes was a two-time all-district selection and a three-year starter. Adolfo Espino also was a two-time all-district pick and a two-year starter. Beckner has three returning starters, including the Luther brothers, and four other letter winners. William Luther, a 6-2 junior guard, averaged 18 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists last season. He was the district newcomer of the year and six-man all-region and all-state. Colton Luther, a 5-8 junior guard, contributed 10 ppg, 4 rpg, 4 apg and was the 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Colton Luther

Cash Poole

Noel Lozano

district defensive player of the year and TABC all-region. Beckner recommends both Luthers as all-state candidates. Cash Poole, a 5-10 forward (2 ppg, 4 rpg), is the other returning starter and one of only two seniors on this year’s roster. Combined, those three returning starters represent 30 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Poole, 6-3 sophomore forward Noel Lozano (9 ppg, 4 rpg), 6-2 sophomore forward Marcos Moncada (3 ppg, 2 rpg) and 5-11 freshman guard Stratton Potter. Beckner notes that the Tornadoes’ strengths are to be determined. (Continued on next page)

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He is concerned about the team’s youth. The keys for success this season are attitude and effort, according to the coach. Beckner played on a state championship team for Clayton, New Mexico, High School in 1980 and on a top-five Amarillo College team in 1983. The Lubbock Christian University graduate later coached three New Mexico high schools for nine years. His 21-year coaching career began in Texline in 1987. He also coached in Glen Rose, Houston Westfield and Spring in Texas. He’s beginning his fourth year in his second stint at Texline, and his Tornadoes have posted a 67-31 record in three years. For his entire career, his boys teams have won 334 games and lost 205 for a .620 winning percentage. DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 13 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21

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Texline Schedule

Opponent Dalhart JV San Jacinto Felt, Okla. Miami Boise City Spearman Vega Tournament Boys Ranch Hart Channing Happy Caprock Tournament Adrian Wildorado Nazareth Hartley Amarillo Flames Channing

Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

Happy Wildorado Adrian Hartley Nazareth Felt, Okla. Channing

Here Here There Here There There Here

X X X X X X X

X X X X X X

Place B G There X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X There X X Lubbock X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Marcos Moncada

Name Cash Poole Colton Luther William Luther

Stratton Potter

Angel Herrera

Texline Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-10 F Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 6-2 G Soph.

Charles Deason 5-9 G Sr. Noel Lozano 6-3 F Soph. Marcos Moncada 6-2 F Soph. Samuel Montes 5-11 F Jr. Stratton Potter 5-11 G Fr. Angel Herrera 5-6 G Fr. Coach: Coby Beckner Asst. Coaches: Mike Prescott, Chance Helms 2018-2019 record: 24-10, 9-3 School phone: 362-4284 Players to watch: William Luther, Colton Luther, Noel Lozano, Marcos Moncada, Cash Poole, Stratten Potter

Texline Super Boosters “Run as One”

District 4-1A Bulldogs bullish on learning quickly

Anton

he Bulldogs had a sub-.500 overall season in Coach Jason Josselet’s first year on the job, but they qualified for the playoffs. Anton won eight of 10 District 4-1A games to finish second in the conference. The Bulldogs lost their bidistrict game to Texline 75-41. “We had to learn a lot last year quickly. We made it to the second round of the playoffs in Joseph Servantes football, and we had to learn a new system,” Josselet said. “It took a while, but we found our stride over Christmas break. We were senior-heavy last year and relied on their experience.” Those seniors — Tristan Hodges, Elijah Alafa, Josh Amalla, Ryan Flores and Ayden Garcia — are gone. Hodges was the

Name Edmundo Avalos Soph. Sergio Champion Rayden Cooper Anthony Crouch Liam Fleming Dylan Gaitan Gage Garcia Slade Hodges Adam Lopez Ashton Martinez Noah Salsman Joseph Servantes Quinton Sherrod Lane Vellinga

Anton Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 P 6-0 5-7 6-0 5-8 5-7 5-6 5-7 5-6 5-7 5-5 5-9 5-8 6-0

G G P P G G P F G G G F F

Soph. Soph. Soph. Soph. Fr. Fr. Fr. Soph. Soph. Fr. Jr. Jr. Soph.

Coach: Jason Josselet Asst. Coach: Josh Hinojosa 2018-2019 record: 8-2 School phone: 997-2221 Players to watch: Joseph Servamtes. Sergio Champion, Ashton Martinez 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Sergio Champion

Ashton Martinez

Quinton Sherrod

district offensive MVP; Alafa and Amalla were all-district; and Flores was AD honorable mention. One honored player returns this season. Joseph Servantes, a 5-9 junior guard, was the district newcomer of the year as a sophomore. Josselet nominates Servantes as an all-state candidate this season. Josselet tabs two others as other outstanding players to watch: 6-0 sophomore guard Sergio Champion and 5-7 sophomore guard Ashton Martinez. The Bulldogs have only three letter winners from last season: Servantes, Champion and 5-8 junior forward Quinton Sherrod. Sophomores Martinez and 6-0 post Edmundo Avalos figure to see plenty of action this season. “We have a group of guys that love to be in the gym,” Josselet said in assessing his team’s strengths. “They enjoy playing with each other, and they play unselfishly.” The team’s youth concerns him. “We have three returners from last year,” he said. “As a whole, we don’t have a lot of varsity experience.” What are the keys for the Bulldogs’ success this season? “We will have to figure out our roles and play them well,” Josselet said.”We will have to play solid defense every night. We just have to grow each day to become the best we can be.” Josselet is a graduate of Munday High School and Texas Tech University. He was the head coach at Rule, Knox City (girls), Sudan, Tahoka and Roby before coming to Anton. (Continued on next page)

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The Bulldogs will open their season Nov. 15 at Southland. The home opener is set for Nov. 22 against Meadow. They’ll play in their own Anton Tournament, plus the Smyer event. District 4-1A play begins Jan. 10. GIRLS The outlook may brighten for the Lady Bulldogs. After all, things can’t get much worse than last season when Anton suffered some early season injuries and struggled to a 3-22 overall season. The Lady Bulldogs wound up 3-7 in district play, finishing fourth. “We lost four starters (for the season) at the beginning of November, which put us in a tough situation. We didn’t have many kids out in the first place, so to lose those starting four kids was tough,” Coach Brittany Huddleston said. “Our first win for the season was our first district game against Cotton Center.” Starting point guard Ally Lopez, along with Teighlor Rhone and Shi Rodriguez, moved on from that team. Last year’s misfortunes created this year’s experience. The Lady Bulldogs have seven letter winners, including five players who started, returning. Leading the way is 5-6 junior post Marisa Alvarado, who was all-district last season. Huddleston recommends Alvarado as an all-state candidate this season. Madison Fleming, a 5-6 senior guard, is another player to watch. “Madison Fleming will be a great senior leader and is an excellent defensive player,” Huddleston said. Joining Alvarado and Fleming as returning starters are seniors Emerie Campos, a 5-3 guard; Kiarra Green, a 5-6 post; and Bianca Champion. Green has a younger sister, freshman Takyra Goree, in the Lady Bulldog program. Huddleston said this year’s Lady Bulldogs are eager to land a spot in the playoffs. “After battling injuries the past two years, it’s made it difficult to compete into the postseason,” she said. “This group has a great bond among each other, and I am hopeful that will allow us to have a great season. We have some strong ball handlers and taller post players to work with this year. I am looking forward to us pushing the ball and being a great rebounding team.” Her players staying healthy and continuing to learn how to compete are her main concerns. “Also, continuing to become better scorers,” Huddleston said. “That’s been a main focus since my first year.” Again, staying healthy is the main key to success this season. “We are a small school, so losing one player can be tough,”

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Name Emerie Campos Kodi-Rayn Harvey Madison Fleming Kiarra Green Marisa Alvarado Adaena Aguirre

Anton Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-3 G Sr. 5-6 P Sr. 5-6 G Sr. 5-6 P Sr. 5-6 P Jr. 5-4 G Soph.

Coach: Brittany Huddleston Asst. Coach: Reed Myers 2018-2019 record: 3-22, 3-7 School phone: 997-5211 Players to watch: Marisa Alvarado, Madison Fleming she said. “We must score the ball and play solid defense night in and out.” Huddleston was district newcomer of the year, all-district for four years, district MVP and part of Slaton High School’s 17 straight district championships. She played two seasons at New Mexico Junior College, where she led the nation in free-throw shooting percentage in 2001-02. She finished her career at Lubbock Christian University and was on an LCU team that made it to the national tournament. She is beginning her third year at Anton. Previously, she was an assistant coach at Amarillo High and Lubbock Coronado. The Lady Bulldogs will begin play at home Nov. 9 against Amherst. They’ll also participate in the Anton and Smyer tourneys. District 4-1A action begins Jan.10.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Marisa Alvarado

Kiarra Green

Madison Fleming

Bianca Champion

Kodi Harvey

Anton Super Boosters Go Lady Bulldogs!—The Alonzo Family Go Lady Dawgs!—The Herrera Family Go Lady Dawgs!—Sherills Family Salon Go Cienna!—The Castillo Family Have a great senior year Kodi-Ryan! Play hard and never give up! We love you!—Dad, Mom, Chianci, Autumn & the Riedel Family Texas Steak Express, Char-Broiled Delivery, Natasha Goree, General Manager, Lubbock North. 606 W. Loop 289, Lubbock, Tx 79416(806) 791-1000, natasha@ steakexpress,com, www.steakexpress.com Good Luck Bulldogs!—Judy Davis Family

DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Anton Schedule

Opponent Amherst Tahoka Southland Ralls Meadow Petersburg Anton Tournament Wilson Smyer Tournament Whiteface Whitharral Petersburg Cotton Center Ropes Valley Silverton Kress Hart Cotton Center Valley Silverton Kress Hart Cotton Center Valley

Place B G Here X Here X There X X There X X Here X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X Here X There X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X There X

Go Bulldogs!—The Thomas, Mandy, Shaylyn, Bridgett, Damien & Brandon Thomas & Mariah Miller Good Luck Bulldogs!—Shayne, Becky, Tristan, Slade & Tripp Hodges Good Luck Jackie and Lane! Go Bulldogs!—The Haston’s Good Luck Jackie and Lady Dawgs!—Bryan & Linda Reed

District 5-1A Lady Wolverines on the way back

Springlake-Earth

The Lady Wolverines were seeking a turnaround season last year, and that’s what happened. Springlake-Earth finished 14-17 overall but had a winning conference record (6-5) and took third in District 5-1A. That qualified the Lady Wolves for the playoffs, where they lost to Lorenzo 50-38 in bidistrict. Much better than the 6-20 overall and 4-6 in district the previous year. “We turned around a team that had won won only six games the year before,” Coach Jeri Been Goodman said. “Ten total players in the program, and six of them were freshmen.” Leading scorer Angel Darden, who was the district offensive MVP, and third-leading scorer Bryttn Nutt, all-district, have moved on from that team. “It will be hard to replace those two on and off the floor,” Goodman said. “They were both tremendous leaders.” 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

The Lady Wolverines still are young with only one senior and one junior on the roster. Three starters return. Sayler Beerwinkle, a 5-9 sophomore post/forward, averaged 12.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists last season. She was the team’s second-leading scorer and the district’s newcomer of the year as a freshman. Lyndsi Mendoza, a 5-6 senior post/forward, contributed 3.9 ppg and 2.7 rpg and was first-team all-district. Mahalia Delgado, a 5-7 sophomore forward (3.5 ppg), is the third returning starter. She was second-team all-district last year. Three other letter winners also are back. They are 5-3 junior guard Ariana Manzales, 5-6 sophomore forward Micaela Fuentes and 5-5 sophomore Jacksiry Figueroa. Goodman sees last year’s freshmen as this year’s strength. (Continued on next page)

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Sayler Beerwinkle

Lyndsi Mendoza

Mahalia Delgado

(Continued from previous page)

“Five sophomores that had to step up as freshmen have a year under their belts. They got the taste of success,” she said. “Let’s hope they build from that. We have a great nucleus to build from and some pretty tough incoming freshmen that have a chance to step into major playing roles.” Her main concern is numbers with fewer than 10 players in the program. As for the keys for success, she said, “Keeping that team unity they learned last year. No one is better than the team is together. People stepping up to fill big shoes left from last year’s seniors. We are young, so they can’t get discouraged, just keep on keeping on.” Goodman is beginning her third season in her second stint as the Lady Wolverines coach. Previously, she coached S-E for nine years and guided the Lady Wolves to the Class 1A Division 2 state finals in 2006. She continued to teach at the school but didn’t resume coaching until the 2017-18 season. So this will be her 12th season as a coach at S-E, her high school alma mater.

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Ariana Manzales

Micky Fuentes

Jacksiry Figueroa

The Texas Tech grad previously coached at Bovina and Hale Center. Her overall girls coaching record is 249-189. BOYS C.J. Castillo made quite a successful debut as the Wolverines’ coach last year. Taking over from Daniel Gutierrez, Castillo guided SpringlakeEarth to the Anton Tournament title and a perfect 10-0 for the District 5-1A championship. In the playoffs, the Wolverines edged Grady 55-54 in the area game and downed Petersburg 73-55 in the regional quarterfinals. In the regional semis, Nazareth eliminated S-E 61-24. That ended the Wolverines’ season at 23-8. Naz went on to reach the state 1A semifinals. “We had a great year, to say the least!” Castillo said. “Making it all the way to Levelland for the regional tournament — that was a huge accomplishment. “We were young, and those guys really stepped it up. I feel we really peaked at the right time after buying into my philosophy. (Continued on next page)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Diego Sanchez

Evan DeLeon

Keyshawn Holmes

(Continued from previous page)

It took the pre-season for everyone to figure out their roles, but when it all came together, it sure was fun.” Post players Rolando Arenas and Brandon Caseras have moved on from that team. However, the Wolverines have four starters and two other letter winners returning. The four returning starters: • Diego Sanchez, a 6-0 senior forward, averaged 18.8 points, 8.4 rebounds and 5 assists and was the district MVP last season. He’s an all-state candidate this year in Castillo’s estimation. • Evan DeLeon, a 5-8 sophomore guard, scored 12.1 points a game as a freshman and earned first-team all-district recognition. • Keyshawn Holmes, a 6-0 sophomore post, was equally impressive as a freshman. His 13.8 ppg, 10 rpg statistics merited district offensive MVP distinction. • Another sophomore, 5-11 forward Kaden Castillo (5.1 ppg), was second-team all-district. Kaden is the coach’s son. “Evan is a fantastic ball handler, while Kaden is our 3-point

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Kaden Castillo

Lucas Heath

Trace Goodman

threat,” Coach Castillo said. “Keyshawn is our big man in the middle.” Those four starters represent 50 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Letter winners Lucas Heath, a 6-0 senior post, and Trace Goodman, a 6-0 sophomore forward, also return. That experience (six returners) is a strength for Coach Castillo, who also said, “Trace and Lucas got quality playing time, stepping in when needed.” The coach said his main concerns are numbers (of players) and “having that target on our backs for having such a successful season last year.” So what are his keys for a successful season? “Building off of where we left off last year. Keeping that team confidence and running with it,” he said. “Experience is going to be key. We had a lot of young kids step up at the end of the season and will help coming into a new season.” Castillo is a graduate of Sudan High School. He graduated from both South Plains College and Eastern New Mexico University.

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DATE Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

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Springlake-Earth Schedule

Opponent Lockney Petersburg Smyer Happy Lockney Cotton Center Shamrock Anton Tournament Hart Whitharral Tournament Friona Plains Littlefield Tournament Olton Whitharral Smyer Morton Lazbuddie Whiteface Amherst Whitharral Morton Lazbuddie Whiteface Amherst Whitharral Morton

Place B G Here X There X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X Tulia X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X There X There X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X Here X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Diego Sanchez Lucas Heath Evan DeLeon Keshawn Holmes Kaden Castillo Trace Goodman

Springlake-Earth Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-0 F Sr. 6-0 P Sr. 5-8 G Soph. 6-0 P Soph. 5-11 F Soph. 6-0 F Soph.

Coach: CJ Castillo Asst. Coach: Scott Royal 2018-2019 record: 23-8, 10-0 School phone: 257-3310 Players to watch: Diego Sanchez, Evan DeLeon, Keshan Holmes, Kaden Castillo Springlake-Earth Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Lyndsi Mendoza 5-6 P/F Sr. Ariana Manzales 5-3 G Jr. Sayler Beerwinkle 5-9 P/F Soph. Mahalia Delgado 5-7 F Soph. Micaela Fuentes 5-6 F Soph. Jacksiry Figueroa 5-5 F Soph. Halee Toscano 5-6 P/F Fr. 5-6 G Fr. Kani Holmes Coach: Jeri Been Goodman Asst. Coach: Sara Weldon 2018-2019 record: 14-17, 6-5 School phone: 257-3310 Player to watch: Sayler Beerwinkle

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Springlake-Earth Super Boosters Good luck Micky!—Love, Tia Weda, Tio Frank, Micha & Matthew Go Trace #23!—Love, Nana & Papa Go #15, Have an Awesome Season!—Love Always Your #1 Fans, Dad, Mom, Daddy Boy & Pops Have a Great Season Wolverines and Lady Wolverines!—Denver, Elisa, Callie, Caleb & Cuyler Crum We support the Lady Wolverines and Wolverines!—HORSE FEATHERS Good Luck This Season Micky!—Love, Mema, Brinley & Aubrey Go Springlake-Earth!—Mark & Gwen Parish Go Lady Wolverines!—Donald & Susan Templeton. We love you #23 Have a Great Sr. Year Lyndsi!—Luis, Norma & Lauren Casares Go Wolverines!—The McIvers Good Luck this Season Micky!—Love, Tio Gilbert & Tia Adela Have a great season Lady Wolverines!—Steve & Connie Edwards Go Micky!—Love You Lots XOXO The Tovar Family Good Luck Micky and Alex!—Carlos, Melissa, Marissa, Kamryn & Hannah Play hard Micky!—Naomi & Johnny Sanchez

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Go Lady Wolverines and Wolverines!—Del & Rosie Davis Go Lady Wolverines!—Libby Geissler Go Lady Wolverines and Wolverines!—Linda Thompson, our favorite Librarian Good Luck this Season to the Wolverines and Lady Wolverines!—Mike & Kathy West Go Lady Wolverines and Wolverines! Have a GREAT season!—Jim & Jeanne Furr Good Luck to the Lady Wolverines this Basketball Season!—The Garza Family Best of Luck Ariana Manzanales and the 20192020 Lady Wolverine Basketball team. The Manzanales Family, Eva, Jesse, Kayla & Joe

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Go Lady Wolverines and Wolverines!—Alex, Jerry, Ralph, Danielle, & Family Good Luck #21! We hope you have an awesome season!—The Medrano Family Best of luck this 2019-2020 season!—Joe, Jessica & Chris Good Luck this season Arianna! Deuteronomy 3:16—The Vargas Family Loves You Olivas Welding wishes the Lady Wolverines a great season! Green & Gold, Big & Bold! Go Wolverines!—The Bryant Family Good Luck Micky!--Love, Tia Weda, Tio Frank, Micha & Matthew

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Whiteface

Lady Lopes looking to continue success The Lady Lopes had a special season last year — until the end. Whiteface won the Wellman Tournament and went undefeated in the Borden County Tournament. In District 5-1A, the Lady Lopes were perfect, taking the title with a 10-0 mark. That earned Whiteface a bye in the first round of the playoffs, which it entered with Holli Scoggins only two losses on the season. But it all came to an end with a 46-37 defeat to Sands in the area game. That terminated a 29-3 season for the Lady Lopes. Macie Buxkemper, all-district as a junior and senior, and Kristen Olguin, a three-year starter, have moved on from that team. However, Coach Gary Simmons welcomed back three returning starters and three other letter winners this fall. Holli Scoggins, a 5-7 junior guard/post, averaged 16 points, 12 rebounds and 8 steals last season and was rewarded as the district’s MVP and first-team all-region. Audrey Ayers, a 5-6 senior guard, contributed 11.3 ppg, 5 rpg and 6 assists per game. She was first-team all-district, secondteam all-region and all-state as a point guard. The third returning starter is 5-5 senior guard Nayeli Herrera

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Audrey Ayers

Nayeli Herrera

Dayley Mosley

(7 ppg, 4 rpg, 2 apg) who was also first-team all-district. Those three returning starters represent 34 points per game, based on last year’s scoring statistics. Letter winner Dayley Mosley, a 5-7 senior post, came off the bench last season to grab 8 rebounds per game and earn secondteam all-district recognition. The other two letter winners are 5-4 senior guard Zoe Barron (2 rpg) and 5-8 sophomore post Joey Alvarez (3 ppg, 4 rpg). “We lost some very productive players from last year’s team and will have to find some people to fill those roles,” Simmons said. “Depending on how quickly we figure that out will determine our success.” (Continued on next page)

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Steven Soliz

Brandel Brown

Sam Hodge

Justin Alvarez

Clay Cleavinger

Clayton Timmons

(Continued from previous page)

His concerns center on the team’s depth, bench experience and the fact the Lady Lopes will be young in some key positions. “We have holes to fill and voids to overcome, but the kids are excited to take that challenge,” Simmons said. “We are looking forward to a solid season, but our schedule will not be kind to us as we have added some very good teams and really tough tournaments.” That schedule begins Nov. 12 at New Home. The Lady Lopes will play in their own Whiteface Tournament, plus the Borden County and Lubbock Caprock events. District competition begins Jan. 10. “The district will be extremely competitive . . . I just hope we can improve enough to be in the conversation for the playoffs at the end of the year,” Simmons said. Simmons is a graduate of Jal, New Mexico, High School and Eastern New Mexico University. Most of his 34-year coaching career has been centered on football and golf with stints at Portales, New Mexico, and Big Spring, Frenship, Midland Lee and Lubbock Cooper. He is beginning his third season as the Lady Lopes’ coach.

Sam Hodge, a 5-10 senior post, is the third returning starter. The other letter winners are 6-0 senior post Justin Alvarez, 6-1 senior post Clay Cleavinger, 5-8 junior guard Clayton Timmons and 5-4 junior guard Jose Borunda. The Antelopes have five posts listed on their roster, and Coach Todd Sessums considers that position a strength for his team. He is concerned about depth at guard. The development of guards and early season success will be the keys for a successful season, according to Sessums. A graduate of Lubbock Cooper High School and Wayland Baptist University, Sessums is beginning his second season at Whiteface. He has coached both boys (16-40) and girls (109-64) in his 10-year coaching career for a combined record of 125-104. The Lopes will open their season Nov. 16 at Meadow. The home opener will be Nov. 22 against Wellman. The Whiteface boys will take part in their own tournament, plus the Plains event and another tournament to be determined in late December. Their district opener is Jan.17.

BOYS The Antelopes have three starters and four other letter winners returning as they try to improve on last year’s 10-18 record. Whiteface finished fifth in District 5-1A with a 2-8 conference mark. Two of the returning starters earned honors last season. Steven Soliz, a 5-8 senior guard, was first-team all-district. Brandel Brown, a 5-9 senior forward, was second-team all-district.

Name Sophia Mendez Kaylah Deavours Zoe Barron Allison Martha Kylie Corbin Madison Kerby Joey Alvarez Audrey Ayers Whitney Whitehead Nayeli Herrera Holli Scoggins Dayley Mosley

Whiteface Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-6 G Soph. 5-7 P/G Jr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-9 G Fr. 5-4 G Sr. 5-5 G/P Soph. 5-8 P Soph. 5-6 G Sr. 5-7 P Sr. 5-5 G Sr. 5-7 G/P Jr. 5-7 P Sr.

Coach: Gary Simmons Asst. Coach: Cami Dacus 2018-2019 record: 29-3, 10-0 School phone: 287-1154 Players to watch: Audrey Ayers, Nayeli Herrera, Holli Scoggins, Dayley Mosley 344

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2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Jose Borunda

Name Steven Soliz Brandel Brown Sam Hodge Justin Alvarez Clay Cleavinger Matthew Silhan Jeffrey Fortner Clayton Timmons Jose Borunda Rylee Davidson

Matthew Silhan

Jeffrey Fortner

Whiteface Boys Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 G Sr. 5-9 F Sr. 5-10 P Sr. 6-0 P Sr. 6-1 P Sr. 6-3 P Sr. 5-9 P Sr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-4 G Jr. 6-0 F Soph.

Coach: Todd Sessums Asst. Coaches: Jason Fortner, Adam Cline 2018-2019 record: 10-18, 2-8 School phone: 287-1104

DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 26-28 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

Whiteface Schedule

Opponent New Home Meadow Cotton Center Wellman Ralls Whiteface Varsity Tournament Plains Tournament Borden County Tournament Anton Smyer Caprock Tournament Boys Tournament Motley County Smyer Floydada Klondike Plains Morton Seagraves Amherst Whitharral Springlake-Earth Lazbuddie Morton Amherst Whitharral Springlake-Earth Lazbuddie Morton Amherst

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Place B G There X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X There X There X There X Here X X Lubbock X TBD X Here X X Here X There X Here X X There X Here X Here X Here X There X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X Here X

Whiteface Super Boosters Go Holli! Proud of you! Lopes all the way!—The Scoggins #31 Has By Hear!—Love, Dad, Mom, Damian & Abdiel Love my #4!—Zoe Barron

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District 6-1A Chiefs seek a bounce-back campaign

Crosbyton

Last season was a downer for the Chiefs. Despite dropping to Class 1A after a couple years at the 2A level, Crosbyton wound up 13-12 overall but 4-6 for fourth place in District 6-1A. Three district losses at the end of the season cost the Chiefs a shot at the playoffs, so they were absent from postseason play for the third straight year. “It was a disappointing season,” Coach Todd Bass said. “I felt like we didn’t defend and value the ball like we have to do to be successful.” Four seniors were on last year’s Crosbyton roster. The most notable departure was Chrystian Coppage, who was honorable mention all-district. Bass has two returning all-district players in seniors Maurice Carr and Landon Clark. Carr, a 6-3 guard/forward, is a three-year starter who has averaged 17 points per game in each of the past two seasons. Last year he also averaged 11 rebounds and 2 assists. Bass recommends Carr as an all-state candidate. Clark, a 5-10 guard, posted 12 ppg, 4 rpg, 4 apg statistics last season. “They have lots of varsity experience and form a very good inside/outside combo,” Bass said of Carr and Clark. Two other letter winners – 5-8 junior guard Anthony Rodriguez (3 ppg) and 5-10 sophomore guard/forward A.J. Pesina (2 ppg,

Maurice Carr

Anthony Rodriguez

Landon Clark

A.J. Pesina

Michael Savell

3 rpg) – also return, but Bass is searching for depth. “We have to find pieces that will defend and value the ball to (Continued on next page)

Crosbyton Boys Name

Ht. Pos. Class

Maurice Carr

6-3

G/F

Sr.

Landon Clark

5-10

G

Sr.

Anthony Rodriguez

5-8

G

Jr.

A.J. Pesina

5-10

G/F

Soph.

Michael Savell

6-0

F

Sr.

Coach: Todd Bass Asst. Coach: Max Hefner 2018-2019 record: 13-12, 4-6 School phone: 675-7331 Players to watch: Maurice Carr, Landon Clark 346

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(Continued from previous page)

build around Maurice and Landon,” he said. Those concerns tie directly to Bass’ keys for success this season. “We have to get back to what has made us successful in the past – defending and valuing the basketball,” he said. “We have to be able to play disruptive defensively on the ball and have great team defense to go with it. We also have to take care of the ball. If we get back to doing those things, our chances for success increase dramatically.” Bass is beginning his 16th season at Crosbyton. The veteran coach, with 26 years in the business, owns a 330-310 boys coaching record. He previously coached at Olton, Stratford and Vega. Bass is a graduate of Sanford-Fritch High School and West Texas State University. The Chiefs open their season Nov. 19 at Lockney. Their home opener is Dec. 3 against Smyer. Crosbyton will participate in the Guthrie and Jayton tournaments. The Chiefs won the Guthrie event last season. The Chiefs begin district play Jan. 17. GIRLS Kimberly Russell, a former Olton basketball and track star, is the new coach of the Chiefettes. Russell was a four-year starter, team captain and all-district selection in basketball at Olton and received a basketball and track scholarship to the University of the Southwest in Hobbs, New Mexico. At USW, she was all-conference in both sports. Her first girls head basketball coaching assignment was at Bovina last year. Previously, she had held various assistant jobs at Olton and Lamesa.

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Thalia Guerrero

Marissa Marquez

Crosbyton Girls Name Bianca Garcia Marissa Marquez Thalia Guerrero Hannah Haynes Mercedez Vega Bayleigh Callaway Rebekah Haynes Emilee Callaway Amber Sanchez

Bianca Garcia

Pos. Class G Sr. G Sr. G Jr. F Jr. F Jr. F Soph. G Soph. P Fr. F Jr.

Coach: Kimberly Russell Asst. Coaches: Britney Huseman, Lynn Turner School phone: 675-7331 Players to watch: Thalia Guerrero, Marissa Marquez, Bianca Garcia, Bayleigh Callaway, Hannah Haynes She replaces Mario Luna, who coached the Chiefettes for two years. Luna’s Chiefettes finished third in District 6-1A last (Continued on page 349)

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(Continued from page 347)

season but lost their bidistrict playoff game to Morton 56-33. There were seven seniors listed on last year’s roster, so Russell has some rebuilding to do. However, a splendid starting spot is 5-6 junior guard Thalia Guerrero, who was the district MVP last season. Russell views her as an all-stater this season. Guerrero started last season. So did 5-6 senior guard Marissa Marquez and 5-4 senior guard Bianca Garcia. Junior forward Hannah Haynes is the fourth returning letter winner. Guerrero, Marquez, Garcia, Haynes and sophomore forward Bayleigh Callaway are outstanding players to watch, according to Russell. The Chiefettes have two sets of sisters — Hannah Haynes and sophomore guard Rebekah Haynes plus Bayleigh Callaway and freshman post Emilee Callaway. “This team is very scrappy and communicates extremely well,” Russell said. “We will be strong on the defensive side with a lot of quickness.” She is concerned about the lack of height and smart ball movement. What are Russell’s keys for her team’s success this season? “Playing to our strengths and sticking to our team identity,” she said. “We will have to continue to communicate on the court and be smart in all aspects of the game.” The Chiefettes will debut at home Nov. 12 against Motley County. They’ll take part in the Guthrie, Smyer and Jayton tourneys. District 6-1A play begins Jan. 19 for the girls.

Hannah Haynes

Ester Davis

Bayleigh Callaway

Katie Dunn

N’Kyra Coleman

Crosbyton Super Boosters Always do your Best Chief and Chiefettes, Braves and Bravettes!—Todd & Mary Bass Chieftains and Chiefettes…Together Forever!— Stacy and Shawn Mason We’re supporting the Chiefs and Chiefettes, Braves and Bravettes!—Ruben & Elva Munoz Run Faster; Jump Higher!—Megan & Roderick Garcia and family Go Get’em Braves and Bravettes, Chiefs and Chiefettes!—Ashley & Aaron Cantu

Maurice Carr

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Bianca Garcia

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 25 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 19-21 Dec. 20 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18

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Crosbyton Schedule

Opponent Motley County Lockney Amherst Jayton Smyer Guthrie Tournament Guthrie Smyer Tournament Tahoka Jayton Tournament Floydada Hale Center Seagraves Post New Home Spur Southland Wilson Petersburg Lorenzo New Home Southland Wilson Petersburg Lorenzo New Home Southland

Place B G Here X Here X There X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X There X Here X X There X Here X There X X Here X There X X There X Here X Here X There X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X Here X

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

We support the Chiefs and Chiefettes, Braves and Bravettes!—Margot & Gary Hardin Cheering you on Chiefettes and Chieftans!—Kittie & Gary Hammersley Rooting you on Chiefs and Chiefettes!—Steve, Kay & Stephanie Alley Behind you, rooting for you Chiefs and Chiefettes, Braves and Bravettes!—Bob Hardin Rooting you on Chiefs and Chiefettes, Braves and Bravettes!—Grace & Richard Munoz Family Go Chiefs and Chiefettes! Have a great season Emilee and Bayleigh!—Love, Mom Go CHS!—Alfonso & Anna Rodriguez Get after’em Chiefs and Chiefettes!—Robby & L’Rae Karr Behind you all the way!—Clifford Trull Go Braves and Bravettes, Chiefs and Chiefettes!—John, Becky & Leila Palacios Good Luck Chiefs and Chiefettes!—Don Ferree Good Luck Chiefs and Chiefettes!—Dusty, Heather, Ty & Kynzee Cornelius Have a great year!—Lance & Jane Morris Aim High Chiefs!—Phil & Bessie Morris Work for it…Earn it…Deserve it!-Brittany, Colby, Brilynn & Blakely Huseman

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Give it your all and never give up!—James, Anabell, Kevon, Keana & Keson Go get’em Chiefs and Chiefettes!—Larry Murillo Go get’em Chiefs and Chiefettes!—Jesse, Tammy, Kaleb & Kyla Salinas It’s a Great Year to be a Chieftain!—Hector Dominguez Good Luck Chiefs and Chiefettes, Braves and Bravettes!—Mary Jo & Bran Huseman

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District 7-1A Lady Eagles have another winning coach

Ropes

The Lady Eagles have gone from a 400-win coach to a 700win coach. Veteran Leland Bearden, whose girls teams have won 702 games in his 29-year coaching career, takes over at Ropes this season. Bearden, a graduate of Sands High School and Texas Tech University, began his coaching career at his high school alma mater. He coached Sands’ girls from 1990 to 1998, then moved to Smyer from 1998 to 2013. His 2010 and 2011 Smyer teams won state championships. His next stop was at Seminole from 2013 to 2019. Overall, his girls teams have won 702 and lost 215 for a .766 winning percentage. Bearden replaces Mike McCann, who has a career girls coaching record of 423-234. He coached the Lady Eagles for the past 10 years, and his past two teams posted a spectacular 64-4 record. McCann had reportedly been unanimously approved to continue as Ropes’ girls coach but decided to move over to the boys side and become the junior high boys coach under Lane Jackson. Last year’s Lady Eagles, under McCann, soared to a 33-3 season following a 31-1 campaign the year before. Ropes went unbeaten (8-0) for its second straight undefeated district championship. But for the second year in a row, Ropes was eliminated in the playoffs by a Nazareth team en route to another Class 1A state

Maggie Anderson

Megan Moore

Chloe Trull

championship. Before losing to Naz in the regional semifinals last spring, the Lady Eagles had defeated Lorenzo 85-27 in the area round and Sands 42-38 in the regional quarterfinals. Posts Payton Medlock and Sara Luning were the only two seniors on last year’s roster, so Bearden inherits a lot of talent. And he brings some with him in 5-8 junior guard Bethani Bearden, his daughter. Among the six returning letter winners are two highly decorated players. Maggie Anderson, a 5-10 junior guard, averaged 13.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists last season. She was all-state by the TABC, TGCA and Texas Six-Man. (Continued on page 354)

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Megan Moore, a 5-8 senior guard, averaged 12 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.8 apg in earning TGCA and Texas Six-Man all-state honors. Moore is a cousin of the departed Medlock. Coach Bearden considers Anderson, Moore and 5-8 senior guard Chloe Trull (8.2 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 3.2 apg) as all-state candidates this season. The Lady Eagles’ other returning letter winners are 6-0 senior post Daley Moore (4.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg), 5-8 junior guard Brooklyn Belyeu (7.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg) and 5-8 junior guard Korie Lehnen (2 ppg). All that experience rates as a strength, according to Coach Bearden. However, he is concerned about the team’s depth. “Rebounding the basketball” will be a key for the Lady Eagles’ success this season, he said. Ropes opens Nov. 12 at Littlefield. The home opener in Ropesville will be Nov. 16 against Abernathy. The Lady Eagles will play in the Whiteface, Floydada and Lubbock Caprock tournaments. District 7-1A play begins Jan.14. BOYS The Eagles won 18 games last season for the second year in a row. They won the District 7-1A championship with an 8-1 record and earned a playoff bye. But they fell to Petersburg 5950 in the area game, capping an 18-11 campaign. “We lost three seniors who played a lot of minutes and did the bulk of our scoring, and we will need to reload and find new leaders for next year,” veteran Coach Lane Jackson said. Those three seniors were Jackson Hisel, Evan Flores and Kolton Boyd.

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Daley Moore

Rylan Garcia

Brooklyn Belyeu

Korie Lehnen

Bethani Bearden

Looking to this season, Jackson said, “We will have six returning varsity players, so we will have some experience coming back.” The six are: • Pake Partington, a 6-3 senior forward, averaged 7.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.5 steals; • Ryan Terry, a 6-0 senior forward, 5.1 ppg, 5.2 rpg; • RJ Medrano, a 5-6 sophomore point guard, 6.6 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 2.7 stls pg; (Continued on next page)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

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• Calin Peden, a 6-0 senior forward, 3 rpg; • Jaden Clabaugh, a 5-8 senior forward; • Rhyan Sexton, a 6-0 senior forward. In addition, Slade Airhart, a 6-1 senior forward, moved into Ropes. “He should help us,” Jackson said. “He’s a good athlete.” Jackson is coaching at his high school alma mater. The Texas Tech grad is beginning his 24th season at Ropes. He previously coached at Merkel and Savoy. He owns a 434-288 overall boys coaching record for a .601 winning percentage. Jackson is optimistic about the upcoming season. “I expect us to be a real contender for the district championship again,” he said. “I hope our tough preseason schedule will prepare us to win the district/get to the playoffs. I assume we will continue Ropes basketball tradition and get to the playoffs.” The Eagles will launch that preseason Nov. 19 at Sudan. The home opener is Nov. 26 against Sundown. The Eagles will take part in the Whiteface, Floydada and Lubbock Caprock tourneys. The District 7-1A opener for the boys is also Jan. 14.

Ropes Super Boosters Wishing the Eagles and Lady Eagles a successful season!—Shane, Tanya & Payton Medlock Go Megan and the Lady Eagles Let’s make this a great season! Go Lady Eagles! Good Luck Bethani!—Love, Mom, Dad & Brennan

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Pake Partington

Jaden Clabaugh

Ryan Terry

Calin Peden

Rhyan Sexton

Best of luck to the Lady Eagles! Go Bethani!— Love, Granny & Papa Go Lady Eagles! Good Luck Bethani!—Love, Mimi & Paw Paw We love our Eagles and Lady Eagles! Go get’em Ryan and Kinley!—Mom & Dad Play hard Ryan and Kinley! We support our EAGLES!—Love, Bo & Papa

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DATE Nov. 12 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 26 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14 Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Dec. 26-28 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 7 Feb. 11

Go Ryan and Kinley! We love our Eagles!—Love, Nana & Pappy Go Lady Eagles!—The Garcia Family Have a great season Lady Eagles!—The Coleman Family

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Ropes Schedule

Opponent Littlefield Abernathy Sudan All Saints Sundown Lubbock Roosevelt Whiteface Varsity Tournament New Home Floydada Tournament Smyer Lorenzo Caprock Tournament Klondike New Deal All Saints Anton Meadow Loop O’Donnell Wellman Meadow Loop O’Donnell Wellman

Place B G There X Here X There X X Lubbock X X Here X X Here X X There X X There X X There X X There X X Here X X Lubbock X X Here X X There X X Here X There X Here X X There X X Here X X There X X There X X Here X X There X X Here X X

Go Lady Eagles! We love you Maggie!—Love, Nanny & Bob Have a great season Maggie! We love #52!— Love, Mom, Dad & Drew Go Mags! Reign those 3’s on ‘em!

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Name Megan Moore Chloe Trull Daley Moore Maggie Anderson Brooklyn Belgeu Korie Lehnen Rylan Garcia Bethani Bearden

Ropes Girls Ht. Pos. Class 5-8 G Sr. 5-8 G Sr. 6-0 P Sr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr. 5-5 G Jr. 5-8 G Jr.

Coach: Lane Jackson 2018-2019 record: 18-11, 8-1 School phone: 562-4031 Players to watch: Pake Partington, Ryan Terry, RJ Medrano, Jaden Clabaugh, Calin Peden, Slade Airhart

Coach: Leland Bearden Asst. Coach: Rustin Keith 2018-2019 record: 33-3, 8-0 School phone: 562-4031 Players to watch: Maggie Anderson, Megan Moore, Chloe Trull Name Pake Partington Ryan Terry RJ Medrano Jaden Clabaugh Calin Peden Slade Airhart Rhyan Sexton Jarren Turpin Louis Herrera Caden Woody

Ropes Boys Ht. Pos. Class 6-3 F Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 5-7 G Soph. 5-9 G Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-1 F Sr. 6-0 F Sr. 6-2 F Jr. 5-7 G Jr. 5-9 G Jr.

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P

PRIVATE SCHOOLS AT A GLANCE PRESEASON PICKS District 1-4A TAPPS Boys 1. Trinity Christian 2. Lubbock Christian 3. Midland Trinity

District 1-4A TAPPS Girls 1. Trinity Christian 2. Lubbock Christian 3. Midland Trinity

P

HONOR ROLL Private School Boys Tru Buchanan, Trinity Christian, Sr.; Ethan Duncan, Trinity Christian, Jr.; Bryce Hiner, Trinity Christian, Sr.; Marcus RamonEdwards, Trinity Christian, Fr.; Parker Sutton, Trinity Christian, Soph.

Private School Girls Lauren Catherman, Trinity Christian, 5-8, Sr.; Payton Dove, Trinity Christian, 5-8, Sr.; Adlee Blacklock, Trinity Christian, 6-0, Soph.; Bonne Busby, Trinity Christian, 5-5, Soph.

TAPPS District 1-4A Lady Lions look loaded

Trinity Christian

The Lady Lions won their ninth TAPPS state championship last spring, possibly a year ahead of schedule. That’s because two of their brightest stars are primed for a big 2019-20 season. Don’t bet against a repeat state crown. Trinity Christian won the Fort Worth Western Hills Tournament and took third in the Frenship and Lubbock Caprock events. The Lady Lions won District 1-4A with a 4-1 mark. They rolled to the 4A TAPPS state title by beating Lubbock Christian 69-60 in the semifinals and Houston Lutheran North 72-34 in the finals. “A magical season with great leadership, great parents and great support from the community,” Coach Nick Catherman said. Graduation cost Trinity Christian the services of Abigail Boehning, first-team all-district, second-team all-state and state all-tournament team, and Brooke Rinehart, first-team all-district. Senior valedictorian Caroline Bradley, who missed all season because of a knee injury, also graduated. However, as Catherman began his third season as head coach, he welcomed four returning starters — featuring the two gems — and three other letter winners. The gems are Lauren Catherman and Adlee Blacklock. Lauren Catherman, the coach’s daughter, is a 5-8 senior point guard who averaged 16.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 5 steals last season. She was the district MVP, first-team all-district, first-team all-state, state all-tournament team, Lubbock AvalanceJournal Lonestar basketball player of the year, Lonestar female athlete of the year and NCSA All-American. Blacklock, a 6-0 sophomore guard, scored 17.5 points, grabbed 6.2 rebounds and distributed 2.5 assists per game last year. She was the district offensive player of the year, first-team all-district, first-team all-state and NCSA All-American. If they match their statistics from last season, Lauren Catherman 358

Private Schools

Lauren Catherman

Jasmine Wadsworth

Adlee Blacklock

Payton Dove

Harleigh Brewer

and Blacklock would contribute roughly 34 points, 13 rebounds and 8 assists a game this season. Both are all-state candidates this season, according to their coach. Two other Lady Lion starters are back. Payton Dove, a 5-8 senior post (5.6 ppg, 3.6 rpg), was first-team all-district. Jasmine Wadsworth, a 5-7 senior guard, contributed 2.6 ppg, 2 rpg. Letter winner Addison Boehning, a 5-9 sophomore guard (4.1 ppg, 2.1 rpg), came off the bench last season and was a second-team all-district pick. Addison Boehning is the sister of the departed Abigail Boehning. Coach Catherman tabs Dove and 5-5 sophomore guard Bonne

(Continued on page 360)

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(Continued from page 358)

Busby as additional players to watch. The other letter winners are 5-8 senior post Harleigh Brewer and 5-7 sophomore post Grace Bonner. Coach Catherman described his team’s strengths as “four returning starters (and a) very athletic team that can shoot the ball very well.” He is concerned about the addition of several new players and how they can adapt to Trinity’s style of basketball. That concern also is a key for success this season. There are others. “We have a very heavy nondistrict schedule this year,” he said. “We have 13 of our 21 girls playing volleyball.” Catherman was all-state in football and basketball at First Baptist Academy in Dallas. He played on an Eastfield Junior College basketball team that went to the NJCCA Final Four in 1990. He later graduated from Wayland Baptist University. He coached at Lubbock’s Christ the King from 2003 to 2010 before moving to Trinity Christian. He has served TC in many coaching capacities, including football and boys and girls basketball. As a head coach, his boys teams have a 79-35 record and his girls teams are 65-37. The Lady Lions open the season Nov.12 at home against Plainview. They’ll play in six tournaments: in Merkel, Frenship, Fort Worth, Canyon, Lubbock (Caprock) and Edmond, Oklahoma. BOYS The Runnin’ Lions also reached the state TAPPS 4A tourney last spring, losing in the semifinals to No.1-ranked Arlington Grace Prep 79-57. That’s the same team that had eliminated Trinity Christian in the playoffs the previous season. Trinity Christian won the Heart of Texas Tournament and scored regular season wins over Frisco Legacy, Canyon and Levelland last year. The Runnin’ Lions were District 1-4A champions with a 4-0 record. They finished the season 26-15 overall. “Last year was a successful year as we advanced back to the state tournament for the second time in three years,” Coach Brandon Gilbert said. “We had great success in district and

Payton Dove, right, was a big part of Trinity Christian’s run to the TAPPS Class 4A state championship in 2019. (Photo courtesy of Trinity Christian School)

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Ethan Duncan

Parker Sutton

Tru Buchanan

Bryce Hiner

Caleb McDonald

Trinity Christian Boys Name Ht. Class Drew Ashworth 5-10 Jr. Tru Buchanan 6-5 Sr. Ethan Duncan 6-0 Jr. Bryce Hiner 5-10 Sr. Cameron Kral 6-4 Sr. Xiaoqi Lou 5-8 Sr. Caleb McDonald 5-10 Sr. Marcus Ramon-Edwards 6-1 Fr. Davis Reeves 6-1 Jr. Pierce Stell 6-0 Jr. Parker Sutton 6-3 Soph. Breck Thomas 6-0 Jr. Coach: Brandon Gilbert Asst. Coaches: Spencer Sutton, Aaron Gaskins, Stan Newman 2018-2019 record: 26-15, 4-0 School phone: 792-3363 Players to watch: Ethan Duncan, Tru Buchanan, Bryce Hiner, Parker Sutton, Marcus Ramon-Edwards throughout the playoffs, advancing to the state tournament and falling to the eventual state champions, Arlington Grace Prep.” Three seniors from that Trinity team graduated. Colby Curry and Sam Davis were first-team all-district; Noah Fornari was second-team AD. Gilbert, however, has four honored players returning. They are: • Ethan Duncan, a 6-0 junior, was the district MVP and second-team all-state. • Tru Buchanan, a 6-5 senior, was the district defensive player of the year and second-team all-state. • Bryce Hiner, a 5-10 senior, was first-team all-district. • Parker Sutton, a 6-3 sophomore, was second-team all-district. Duncan, Buchanan and Hiner are all-state candidates in Gilbert’s estimation. Sutton and 6-1 freshman Marcus RamonEdwards are other outstanding players to watch. Duncan is the son of Lubbock Christian University men’s coach Todd Duncan. Coincidentally, Gilbert, an LCU grad, played (Continued on next page)

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(Continued from previous page)

for Todd Duncan when the latter coached Trinity Christian High School to a state championship in 1999. Gilbert was a secondteam all-district selection that year. “This year there is a tenacity and intensity to this team,” Gilbert said. “They are scrappy and have a get-after-it mentality. They are a good-shooting team and move the ball well on offense.” Those are his evaluations of the Runnin’ Lions’ strengths. Here are his areas of concerns: “We are going to look like a typical Trinity team, with little height, and going to rely on the fundamental of blocking out and securing the ball,” Gilbert said. He outlined several keys for success this season. “We will need to shoot the ball well, move the ball and use our knowledge of the game to beat more athletic teams,” he said. “Our defense will rely on limiting our opponents to one shot and securing the basketball, while pushing the pace.” Gilbert is beginning his third season as the head coach at his high school alma mater. He was an assistant coach at Trinity for 10 years. When the Runnin’ Lions won their last Class 4A TAPPS state championship in 2017 under Coach Jeremy McFerrin, Gilbert was his assistant. The Runnin’ Lions are scheduled to open their season Nov. 8 at Grapevine Faith. Four tournaments — in San Antonio, Decatur, Lubbock (Caprock) and Edmond, Oklahoma — are on the docket. DATE Nov. 8 Nov. 9 Nov. 12 Nov. 12 Nov. 14-16 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 21-23 Nov. 25 Nov. 25-26 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 5-7 Dec. 10 Dec. 12-14

Trinity Christian Schedule

Opponent Grapevine Faith Legacy Christian Midland Christian Plainview Merkel Tournament Odessa Permian Seminole Frenship Tournament SACS/Antonian Tournament Shallowater Lake Country Tournament Randall Tascosa Canyon Festival Gene Messer Shootout Canyon Decatur Tournament

Place B G There X Grapevine X There X Here X There X There X Here X There X San Antonio X Here X Fort Worth X Here X Here X There X Frenship X Here X There X

Adlee Blacklock, right, watches her shot as her hand follows through. Blacklock, a sophomore in 2018-19, averaged 17.5 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists as the Trinity Christian Lady Lions won their ninth state title. (Photo courtesy of Trinity Christian School) Dec. 16 Dec. 28-30 Jan. 3 Jan. 7 Jan. 7 Jan. 10 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Jan. 17 Jan. 18 Jan. 21 Jan. 23-26 Jan. 31 Feb. 4 Feb. 11

Hobbs Caprock Tournament Lovington Lubbock Titans Tascosa Clovis Portales Midland Trinity Hobbs Hobbs Lubbock Christian Deer Creek Tournament Lubbock Christian Nazareth Midland Trinity

Here X Lubbock X Here X There Here X There Here X There X There There X Here X Edmond, OK X There X Here X Here X

X X X X X X X X X X X

Trinity Christian Girls Name Ht. Pos. Class Lauren Catherman 5-8 G Sr. Payton Dove 5-8 P Sr. Jasmine Wadsworth 5-7 G Sr. Harleigh Brewer 5-8 P Sr. Kiley Irlbeck 5-5 G Jr. Adlee Blacklock 6-0 G Soph. Addison Boehning 5-9 G Soph. Bonne Busby 5-5 G Soph. Claire Simpson 5-6 G Soph. Grace Bonner 5-7 P Soph. Annisa Moreno 6-0 P Soph. Coach: Nick Catherman Asst. Coaches: Paige Buchanan, Tabitha Martinez 2018-2019 record: 30-11, 4-1 School phone: 791-6583 Players to watch: Lauren Catherman, Adlee Blacklock, Payton Dove, Bonne Busby 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Lauren Catherman (14) returns after averaging 16.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 5 steals in Trinity Christian’s TAPPS state championship season in 2018-19. Brooke Rinehart (23) was an all-district senior on that team. (Photo courtesy of Trinity Christian School)

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Current KU coach

Brandon Schneider gets Harley Redin award By Wayland Baptist Sports Information third-fastest among women’s basketball coaches. Former Wayland Baptist Pioneer basketball In his 12 seasons at Emporia State, Schneider player and current University of Kansas women’s guided the Lady Hornets to 11 NCAA Tournahead basketball coach Brandon Schneider, son of ment appearances, forging a 21-10 (.677) record. retired West Texas A&M and Canyon women’s During that stretch, his teams recorded two 30coach Bob Schneider, was chosen as the 2019 win seasons and nine 20-win campaigns. Along recipient of the Harley Redin Coach’s Award. with the 2010 national championship, Schneider The award is presented to a Wayland alumnus coached ESU to four NCAA Division II South who has demonstrated outstanding success as Central Regional titles, two Final Four appeara head coach at the university or public/private ances, six regular-season conference crowns and school level. The recipient also is recognized for three league tournament titles. outstanding contributions to community, school Defending Home Court and church. The Lady Hornets were almost unbeatable The award is named in honor of Wayland’s most at home, forging a 143-14 (.917) record under successful coach, Harley Redin, who coached 27 Schneider. His teams posted a 39-26 (.600) reyears at Wayland. He led the Pioneers to a 171-97 cord against nationally ranked opponents, which Brandon Schneider record from 1948-57, then as coach of the Flying included four wins over No. 1 ranked teams. Queens from 1955-73 went 431-66, winning more games than any other women’s program in collegiate history. The In 2006, the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association of four-year Flying Queens won the first 76 games Redin coached, completcolleges voted Schneider as its coach of the year. He also was ing a streak that set a still-standing collegiate-record 131 straight a three-time Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association victories. During his 18 years with the Queens, Wayland won six Coach of the Year. AAU national championships, was runner-up seven times and The 2010 Bulletin Women’s Basketball National Coach of the took third three times. Year and the WBCA South Central Region Coach of the Year, Redin was an inaugural member of the national Women’s BasSchneider coached two NCAA Division II Player of the Year ketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Tennessee, and last year was selections, eight conference MVPs and seven players went on presented the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award by the to play professionally, including one in the WNBA. Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. Schneider next went to Stephen F. Austin in Nacogdoches Schneider was honored during Wayland’s homecoming activifrom 2010 to 2015, returning the Ladyjacks to the top of the ties on Nov. 2. As part of that event, the 1948-82 Flying Queens Southland Conference. SFA won back-to-back league titles in will be inducted into the WBU Athletics Hall of Honor on the 2013-14 and 2014-15, when Schneider was named Southland heels of being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Coach of the Year, and the Ladyjacks made three postseason Hall of Fame. appearances. Schneider’s Ladyjack teams were 95-66 overall Native of Canyon and 57-29 in Southland Conference play. A native of Canyon, Schneider was a four-year basketball Schneider now is in his fifth season at the helm of the Kansas letterman at Wayland from 1991 to 1995, his first two seasons women’s basketball program. The Jayhawks have increased their under current WBU athletic director Rick Cooper. Schneider win total every season under Schneider, and last season Kansas helped the Pioneers to a 28-6 record and a district championship received votes in both the AP and USA Today Coaches polls. as a freshman, to a 21-12 mark and the district semifinals as a Schneider coached the 2016-17 Big 12 Newcomer of the Year, sophomore, and to a 19-13 record and the regional finals as a and seven of his players have been recognized for their efforts junior. His senior year in 1995 was Wayland’s first season in the in the classroom. Sooner Athletic Conference. Son of WT and Canyon Legend He graduated with honors and was Wayland’s first-ever AllSchneider’s father, Bob, was one of the most successful American Scholar-Athlete and NAIA Scholar-Athlete, capturing women’s coaches at the NCAA Division II level, having served that honor three times. as the head coach at West Texas A&M from 1981 to 2006. They Schneider’s first coaching stop was at Emporia State University became the first father/son combination to take teams to the in Kansas from 1995 to 2010, first as an assistant, then the last Elite Eight. Bob Schneider’s Canyon High teams won several dozen years as head coach. Schneider established himself as the state championships as he set the standard for the Lady Eagles. second all-time winningest head coach at the NCAA Division Bob’s wife is Barbara Schneider. II level, guiding the Lady Hornets to a 306-72 (.810) record and Brandon Schneider and his wife Ali, have two sons, Cash the 2010 NCAA Division II national championship. The school’s and Cole. all-time leader in wins and winning percentage, Schneider ranks among the all-time top 10 in fastest coaches to 100 victories and 362

Special Features

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Parting Shots Some WT images

Clockwise from top left, an official holds the ball at First United Bank Center. A plaque under the statue outside reads, “Maurice Cheeks, West Texas State University, 1974-1978, NBA Player and Coach 1978-, Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2018.” Boys play in the gym while the Lady Buffs host ENMU, and a dedicated fan watches the game. Magazine contributors Lance Lahnert and Dave Wohlfarth cover the Lady Buffs. WT’s Lexy Hightower shoots a free throw in a close game. (Photos by Mike Haynes)

2019-2020 2012-2013Panhandle-Plains Panhandle-PlainsBasketball Basketball

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Parting Change Shots Section

Emotion in basketball runs the gamut from happy to sad, but it tends to be extreme, from gratified winners on the right below to dejected fans and players on the left. (Clockwise from right, photos by Texas Tech Athletics, LCU Athletic Media, Wayland Sports Information and Mike Haynes)

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Panhandle-Plains Basketball Basketball 2012-2013

One of Nazareth’s state championship banners is draped over gold basketball trophies in the Naz coaches’ office. The banner has been properly displayed now, but space is at a premium at the school that has won 23 girls and seven boys state titles.

This cardboard schedule for the 1984-85 Amarillo College basketball teams was found in an Amarillo antique store. The AC basketball program was discontinued not long after that season.

Texas Tech’s 2019 run to the NCAA championship game drew scores of fans from the Panhandle-Plains region to sites across the country. Attending the West Regional in Anaheim, California, at the end of March were Kenneth and Tarrie Sue Pirtle of Amarillo, their son, Jeff, of Los Angeles and their grandson, Robert.

For those who have lost pets: Stormy

“If there are no dogs in heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” –Will Rogers Abbey 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

Three members of the West Texas A&M golf team posed this summer with the tee box sign sponsored by Panhandle-Plains Basketball at the West Texas Buffalo Club Golf Classic in Canyon. They are Alyssa Campbell, left, from Lancaster, South Carolina; Briss Graham from Bushland; and Jordan Grasis from Yuma, Arizona. (Photo courtesy of Meredith Jameson, WTAMU women’s golf coach)

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Parting Shots

A magazine photo shoot

Each year in September, outstanding players from the Panhandle and South Plains gather in Amarillo and Plainview to have their pictures taken for the cover of Panhandle-Plains Basketball Magazine. These photos from the Amarillo photo session at Cenveo Printing show the organization that goes into the event. The Plainview session takes place at Wayland Baptist University. (Photos by Mike Haynes)

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2012-2013 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Panhandle-Plains Basketball Basketball

sU CCES S IS A TEAM EFFORT Team Cenveo Amarillo 109 South Fillmore St Amarillo, TX 79101 806.376.4347 www.cenveo.com

2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball

to be prin�ng Parting Shot

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PANHANDLE-PLAINS BASKETBALL INDEX

-AAbernathy.....................................................................140 Adrian .......................................................................313 Amarillo College............................................................24 Amarillo ISD Amarillo High.............................................6, 82 Caprock...........................................................86 Palo Duro........................................................94 Tascosa............................................................79 Anton .......................................................................335 -B- Boys Ranch..................................................................172 Brownfield....................................................................142 Bushland......................................................................123 -CCanadian......................................................................126 Canyon .......................................................................105 Childress......................................................................168 Clarendon.....................................................................196 Clarendon College Men.................................................69 Clarendon College Women............................................70 Crosbyton.....................................................................346 -DDalhart .......................................................................114 Denver City..................................................................165 Dumas .......................................................................117 -FFollett .......................................................................271 Fort Elliott....................................................................276 Frenship .........................................................................76 Friona .......................................................................129 -GGroom .......................................................................289 Gruver .........................................................72, 174, 367 -HHappy .......................................................................317 Hartley .......................................................................322 Hereford .......................................................................109 Higgins .......................................................................284 Highland Park..............................................................199 -IIdalou .......................................................................145 -LLevelland......................................................................119 Littlefield......................................................................151

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Index

Lubbock ISD...................................................................... Coronado.........................................................89 Monterey.........................................................91 Lubbock Christian University Men................................54 Lubbock Christian University Women.....................15, 56 -MMcLean .......................................................................295 Memphis......................................................................201 -NNazareth ...................................................................9, 325 New Deal.....................................................................254 -OOlton

.......................................................................230

-PPanhandle.....................................................................204 Plainview........................................................................97 -RRandall .......................................................................100 Ropes .......................................................................352 -SShallowater...................................................................154 Shamrock.....................................................................302 Slaton .......................................................................159 Smyer .......................................................................256 South Plains College Men..............................................65 South Plains College Women.........................................67 Spearman......................................................................132 Springlake-Earth..........................................................337 Stratford .......................................................................193 Sudan .......................................................................237 Sundown......................................................................258 -TTexas Tech Men.............................................................41 Texas Tech Women........................................................44 Texline .......................................................................333 Trinity Christian.....................................................12, 358 -VVega .......................................................................246 -WWayland Baptist Men.............................................59, 362 Wayland Baptist Women....................................21, 61, 63 Wellington....................................................................216 West Texas A&M Men.............................................18, 47 West Texas A&M Women......................................51, 363 Wheeler .......................................................................225 White Deer...................................................................306 Whiteface.....................................................................343 2019-2020 Panhandle-Plains Basketball