VYPE Oklahoma Basketball Preview 2015-2016 by Austin Chadwick

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56 {6A Overview}

The defending state champion Mustang Broncos look to become back-to-back champions in 6A. VYPE Top 100 selections Jakolby Long and Curtis Haywood II will lead the way for Mustang. However, there is a plethora of talented teams, such as Norman North, Edmond Santa Fe, Union and Edmond Memorial that will be gunning for the Broncos. On the girls side, state runner-up Muskogee returns three VYPE Top 100 selections, and defending state champion Broken Arrow returns two VYPE Top 100 selections of their own. Sapulpa, Choctaw and others will challenge Muskogee and Broken Arrow for the crown.

Publisher Austin Chadwick Editorial Director Brad Heath Sales Director Roscoe Migliore Director of Operations Rod Coulter

61 {5A Overview}

Three Rivers Director Bill Huddleston Editor Kyle Kendrick Associate Editor Cal Ross Graphic Design Kerri Smith Contributing Writers Cal Ross, Kyle Kendrick, Brad Heath, Bill Huddleston, Rod Coulter Contributing Photographers Brad Heath, Jeff Jacobsen, Steve Toney, Patti Duran, Rip Stell, Bluncks Photography, Curtis Allen, Defining Moments Photography, Josh Clough, Von Castor, John Hasler, Kevin Bishop, Gsmith Studios. com, Wes Sharp, Kim Hough, Michael Mayberry, Brett Rojo, Ben JohnsonTahlequah Daily Press, Allison Aday-Eufaula Schools, Vicki Reece-Westville Schools, Ruby Dean-Captured Memories Photography, Craig Hall-LeFlore County Journal, Troy Littledeer, Bill Huddleston Contact Information Website: www.VYPEOK.com Phone: 918.495.1771 Fax: 918.495.1787 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.

Defending state champion Lawton Eisenhower sits atop the rankings on the boys side, led by VYPE Top 100 selection Darius Roy. Caleb Nero looks to get Memorial back on top. State runner-up Carl Albert aims to get over the hump this season. Don’t count out teams like Edison and Pryor as they try to shake things up. The girls side is wide open, as last year’s champion Deer Creek moved up to Class 6A. Collinsville, led by Mallory Vaughn, finds themselves at the top of the rankings, and is expected to compete for a title, along with Piedmont, East Central and Woodward.

68 {4A Overview} Locust Grove’s girls team loses a lot of talent from last year’s state championship team, opening the door for Anadarko and Newcastle, which both have VYPE Top 100 players. Harrah and Ft. Gibson will pose a serious threat in the title chase, and should not be taken lightly. Defending state champions Central finds themselves at the top of the boys preseason rankings, followed closely by Harrah and McLain. Expect Douglass to bounce back after missing the state tournament last season. The Class 4A title race will be close on both sides.

74 {3A Overview}

Heritage Hall took the crown last season, and finds themselves at the top of the rankings coming into this season. State runner-up Verdigris, led by VYPE Top 100 selections Laef Payne and Brewster Peacock, will aim to get revenge on the Chargers. Oklahoma Centennial will continue to be in the thick of the title race. Teams like Atoka and Sequoyah Tahlequah will try to shake things up. On the girls side, defending state champs Sequoyah Tahlequah sits atop the rankings, followed by state runner-up Chisholm and 3A newcomers Alva, who won Class 2A last season. The Class 3A title races should be some of the most exciting races in the state.

78 {2A Overview}

Preston sits atop both the girls and the boys rankings coming into the season. With Alva moving up to Class 3A, the girls side becomes wide open. Preston is the favorite, after finishing as state runner-up on both sides last season. VYPE Top 100 selections KiEssence Shields leads Preston’s girls team, and Koby Goodman leads Preston’s boys team. Dale, Fairview, Cashion and Howe will try to knock off Preston on the girls side. On the boys side, Preston has Wewoka, Kiefer and Talihina in the rearview. Expect the 2A title chase to be as exciting as it has ever been this season.

82 {A Overview}

Ty Lazenby has moved on from Glencoe, but the Panthers still find themselves sitting at No. 2 in the boys rankings, right behind Ft. Cobb-Broxton and VYPE Top 100 selection Cameron Hines. Okay, Pond Creek-Hunter and Hollis find themselves right behind the top two teams, and will aim to make a run for the title. Okarche sits atop the girls ranking, after coming up just short of the state title last season. Defending state champion ThomasFay-Custer, a team that is replacing a lot of talent, will try to repeat as champions. Pond Creek-Hunter, Seiling and Glencoe will challenge Okarche for the top spot.

88 {B Overview}

The girls race in Class B starts with the defending state champion Lomega, and state runner-up Coyle. Those two teams are No. 1 and No. 2 in the rankings to start the season. VYPE Top 100 selection Tyra Aska aims to lead Coyle to the title game again, and hopes to capture the crown this time around. Forgan and Red Oak will challenge Lomega and Coyle throughout the season. The boys race will be equally as interesting, as last year’s state champion Ft. Cobb moved up to Class A, leaving state runner-up Forgan and Red Oak as the favorites. Expect teams like Chattanooga and Leedey to challenge on the boys side

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November 2015 Mazzio’s Corporation and VYPE have teamed up to grant a $2,000 Scholarship for one boy and one girl to be presented in the June issue of VYPE. Here is how it will work: • Each month, VYPE will take nominations for an Athlete of the Month and a boy and girl will be elected the Mazzio’s Athlete of the Month. This will be a chance for boys and girls of all sports to be recognized for their performances. • Nominees can be mailed to scholarship. Oklahoma@VYPE.com. Give the nominee’s name, school, sport and reasons you believe the athlete should be awarded the scholarship. • The nominees will need to be seniors this season but keep in mind that their accomplishments as juniors will be taken into consideration as well. • Each monthly recipient will be a candidate for the scholarship that will be awarded in June. • All sports will be eligible to have a nomination. • The male and female athletes who are chosen each month will have a pictured bio, highlighting their accomplishments, placed on this page.

Logan Mullins Sperry Senior Logan Mullins from Sperry High School is a starting power forward the Pirates and is the Mazzios Athlete of the Month. Mullins was recently named to the VYPE Top 100 placing him in the running for the Shelter Insurance Mr. Basketball award. Mullins averaged 17.2 points per game last year to go with his 11.6 rebounds and 2.0 steals. On the basketball team Mullins is known for his leadership skills and being a team player. In the classroom Mullins carries a 3.6 grade point average in is involved in the Pre-Med club and has made the Principal’s Honor Roll. Mullins is looking forward to the challenge of a new season and expects his team to live up to the high standards they have placed on themselves. “We want to make it back to the state tournament and win it,” said Mullins. Having a true leader on and off the court coupled with his athletic talents will make Sperry a contender this season.

Alexis Gaulden Broken Arrow One of the top female players in the state, Alexis Gaulden of Broken Arrow High School has helped the team win back-to-back state titles. “Our goal is to three-peat this year. Our biggest rival is Muskogee because they have been our toughest competition for the past two years,” said Gaulden. Gaulden averaged 13.9 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.0 assists last season and was named the MVP of the state tournament and was 1st team All-Conference. Gaulden will take her talents to the next level as she recently committed to play her college ball at the University of Tulsa. Known as an unselfish player team player Gaulden represents her team and the sport of basketball in a positive manner. Her opponents never question her toughness as a competitor. Alexis Gaulden plays with passion and plays the game the right way, representing Broken Arrow High School and her teammates like a true champion and for that, Gaulden is named the Mazzios Athlete of the Month.

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IN OKLAHOMA BOYS HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL, WHO HAS SCORED THE MOST POINTS IN ONE GAME? On January 9, 1979, Grandfield’s boys basketball team traveled to Terral with one goal in mind, to set a record. Actually, two goals, win the game and set a record. The record the team had their eye on was not a team record, but an individual one. Grandfield’s 6-1 senior guard Kenneth Johnson was positioned to score a lot of points. Terral’s team was having a tough year and their court, was well known to be a shorter than normal high school sized court. Earlier in the year, Jay Armstrong, from Ryan had scored 82 points in a game to set the state’s single game mark. Grandfield’s coach Jim Mathews had had his eye on this game for a while to break the record. So with the coach and team all on board, they set out to accomplish the record breaking night. It almost ended early in the first quarter when Johnson got two quick fouls and coach Mathew’s told Johnson “Listen son, do you want to play defense or do you want to set the record?”. It had been decided that if Johnson didn’t have at least 20 points by the end of the first quarter, the plan would be called off. Johnson stopped fouling and started scoring. Johnson hit 15 of 22 shots and ended the first quarter with 31 points. Johnson had averaged over 30 points per game for three consecutive years including his

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senior season averaging over 40 but he never had a second quarter like he had on that night. Johnson shot 28 more shots in the quarter and added 40 more points to his game total for a total of 71 at half. Heading into the locker room, his coach deliberately did not tell Johnson how many points he had but Johnson’s cousin caught him and “He told me I had 71 points.” No other Grandfield player scored in the second quarter and he ended the half with 32 of 50 shooting and six free throws. The score at half was Johnson 71 and Terral 29. In the third quarter, Johnson continued where he left off. With even the hometown Terral crowd cheering for him, Johnson made eight more field goals and a total of 91 points. With eight minutes to go in the game, having played with every player on his team and the record broken, another goal became very clear, 100 points! Johnson reached 100, in fact, he reached 105 and with 5:23 left in the game and the crowd cheering, Johnson exited the game and watched his teammates finish the game. In a little over 26 minutes of game action, he finished the game with 105 points on 45 of 82 shooting and 15 free throws, that’s more than 3 shots per minute and 1.7 makes per minute. Grandfield also accomplished their other goal of the night, by winning the game 120-65. On a night way before the three-

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

point-line, in a small gym a stone’s throw way from the Texas border, a young man scored, and he scored A LOT! Setting a record that has stood the test of time, Johnson went on to lead his team to the state semi-finals, score 3,191 career points (becoming the first player to score more than 3000 points in a career), played in allstar and all-state games, got his picture in Sports Illustrated and was presented an award in New York City by O.J. Simpson. Johnson didn’t play basketball after that season. Something he wanted to do but it didn’t work out. He graduated from Grandfield, headed to Oklahoma City University but came back a year later. He got a job with Sears in Oklahoma City, had a child and got married. Tiring from the drive to Oklahoma City, he returned to Grandfield and got a job and eventually had four kids. If you visit Grandfield today, no one has forgotten it. The original game ball, donated and signed by the opponents from Terral, the jersey and other memorabilia are on display in the trophy case. The game lives on in stories around Grandfield and though, as stories go, some grow and become bigger, one thing that is constant and never will change. 115.

Debate

I’ve seen a lot of basketball over the years and Jaden Hobbs is the best I’ve seen in Oklahoma. My coworkers and so-called experts think otherwise. You be the judge. By Kyle Kendrick: VYPE NWOK and SWOK Editor While we were putting this preview together we had a debate in the VYPE office and I stood alone when I said: “We should consider ourselves lucky because we are currently watching the greatest girls high school basketball player this state has ever seen, and that player is Alva superstar Jaden Hobbs.” My colleagues had some differing opinions but I’m standing tall because I know I’m right. Before I tell you why I am though I wanted to share their opinions with you. Brad Heath – VYPE Editorial Director No doubt Jaden Hobbs is a great player, but we can’t call her the “greatest player” just yet. What we can do however is call Atoka’s Crystal Robinson or “C-Rob” the greatest girls player in Oklahoma high school or college history. As a player at Atoka, Robinson played 6-on-6 ball from 1989-92; scoring 322 career state tournament points. In ’92 she scored 124 points in the state tournament to lead the Lady Wampus Cats to a state title. She was named to the WBCA All-American First Team and played in the inaugural game scoring a gamehigh 25 points and was voted MVP. Her college career was even more impressive. While at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Robinson set multiple records including points, rebounds, assists and steals. Robinson became a three-time NAIA All-American and is in several Hall of Fames, including Southeastern Oklahoma State, NAIA, and the Jim Thorpe Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. The Daily Oklahoman named her to the All-Century team for both high school and college and VYPE named Robinson to the Top 100 list of All-Time Athletes from Oklahoma. Enough said. Bill Huddleston – VYPE Three Rivers and SEOK Editor Not so fast my friend…

Best Ever discussions have to include Sequoyah Tahlequah’s Angel Goodrich, who was only seconds away from helping the Lady Indians win four consecutive state championships, prior to taking her talents to the college level and eventually to the WNBA.

It also has to include Kelli Litsch of Thomas who was a driving force in Oklahoma high school basketball during the transition from the 6-on-6 game of yesteryear to the 5-on-5 game enjoyed today. While leading the Lady Terriers to two state titles, Litsch scored 3,664 points in her high school career including a state tournament career average of 37.6 points per

game. Litsch, a four-time NAIA All-American led Southwestern State University to three national championships where Litsch gained MVP honors three times in the national tournament. She’s a member of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. Cal Ross – VYPE NEOK and North Editor

Jaden Hobbs is unquestionably one of the best girls basketball players to play on the hardwood in Oklahoma high school basketball history. With Alva moving back up to Class 3A this season, she has a chance to add to that legacy. Is she the best girls player of all-time? Debatable. Newkirk’s Kinzie Glover, who played for the Lady Tigers from 20012005, would like to enter that discussion. Glover set the state tournament record for points in a game, at the time, with 44 points in the semifinals against Bethel in 2005. That record stood until Hobbs herself scored 45 in a win against Washington in 2014. However, Hobbs needed overtime to surpass Glover’s record. The extra period allowed Hobbs to boost her numbers a little bit. Who knows how many points Glover could’ve added on with an overtime period? Glover also went on to play college basketball at Southern Nazarene University, where she continued to shine and was named as an NAIA AllAmerican.

Look, I respect Crystal Robinson and Kinzie Glover as players, the same way I respect players like Jenna Plumley, Lana Keith, Angel Goodrich, Stephanie McGee, Danielle Grant and Kevi Luper. Bottom line? Hobbs is just better than all of them. Hobbs already owns the record for most points in a single state tournament (5-on-5 that is) with 107, if she played 6-on-6 those numbers could easily match or best those of players like Robinson. And overtime or not she holds the record for most points in a 5-on-5 state tournament game, so that argument just doesn’t hold water to me, Cal. Add on to all of that Hobbs is second all-time in career state tournament points in the 5-on-5 era with 241 and will likely pass Goodrich who is number one with 268, this year. Looking past the numbers Hobbs is also a floor general who distributes the ball and can really frustrate you with her defense. She shines in the big moment, she doesn’t shrink away from it. And finally, she just wins. So far in Hobbs’ storied career Alva is 83-7, with two gold balls and a silver. She’s got a great chance to add to that total this year and if Alva wins a third title well let’s just say, point proven. Thanks to Cal, Bill and Brad though for weighing in. I guess we will have to wait until the season is over for you guys to admit I’m right.

LIFE

IS A PERFORMANCE

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Oologah 1965

Forty-Five Years Later…

A Look at the 1965 Class B State Champion Oologah Mustangs Then and Now

ball was mainly played in the post. Being tall was an advantage, and Thomason knew how to use his size.

Back in 1965, when a basketball team won a state title, they were not rewarded with a state ring, just a state trophy. The Oologah Mustangs won the state title in 1965, but it wasn’t until 45 years later some of the guys, led by Clifford Thomason, decided to get together and buy state rings together.

The story begins on Jan. 16, 1947, the day Clifford Thomason was born. Thomason was a premature baby, and he was so small that the doctors decided to not even weigh him. The doctors told Clifford’s parents to take him home, but he probably wouldn’t make it. Clifford’s father emphatically told those same doctors that he would. Thomason’s father fed him goat milk for a week and then took him back to the doctor, where he weighed four pounds. Clifford ended up growing to be six foot and four and a quarter inches tall, while weighing 200 pounds. Clifford was always fond of goats, and many speculate if it was because of the milk. “Clifford always made sure to include the quarter inch,” Gloria Thomason said.

Clifford used his size to his advantage in the game of basketball. Thomason was a big kid back in those days, when basket-

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

The 1965 Oologah team was a well-balanced team that had multiple playmakers. In those days, Oologah, which is in Class 4A today, was a Class B team. The Mustangs faced teams like Hominy and Binger. Oologah ended up facing Binger in the state finals that year. Binger, at the time, had a talented player by the name of Johnny Bench. As many folks know, Johnny Bench was an incredibly talented baseball player. Bench ended up spending 16 seasons in Major League Baseball, winning titles with the Cincinnati Reds. Bench went on to become a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. In 1965, however, the Clifford Thomason-led Mustangs were able to best the Johnny Bench-led Bobcats in the 1965 state finals. The state finals win is the only boys basketball championship in Oologah’s history. Clifford once said that the same agent that spoke with Johnny Bench spoke with him. Clifford always wanted to visit with Bench, and before he passed away, tried to get Bench to come visit him. They were unable to elicit a response. Clifford Thomason, his brother Leonard and their cousin Jim Lambert were talented horseshoe players to go along with their basketball talents. The story of the 1965 Oologah Mustangs comes to a close 45 years after they lifted the state trophy, when Clifford and a few other starters from the team got together and decided they wanted to get state rings. Now, the memory of the 1965 team and its win over Johnny Bench in the state finals lives on through those rings.

The members of the 1965 Oologah Mustangs are: George Lamberson, John Smith, Robert Garrett, Richard Dirickson, Tracy Carter, Joe Dillion, Dennis Sunday, Clifford Thomason, Danny Bennett, Dwayne Culmer, Randy Sunday, Vernon Lester, Jimmy Sweeney, Larry Bennett, Bill Curby and Coach Doc Bennett.

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The top 100 high school basketball players in the state will comp Basketball Oklahoma. Here are the top 100 players as they introduce @VYPEOK on twitter and keep up 18

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

100

pete for the 3rd time for the title of Shelter Insurance Mr. and Miss e themselves and represent their schools. Don't forget to follow them with their season at #VYPETop100. BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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NORTHEAST OKLAHOMA Brewster Peacock Verdigris Cardinals Jr. 6-4 Shooting Guard @money_teamceo Did you know: Brewster’s full name is Alfred Brewster Peacock V. College: Brewster is being recruited by multiple junior colleges. Quote: “One day when I’m older I will be getting buckets in an arena near you.”

Breyden DiSpain Oologah Mustangs Sr. 6-3 Guard @b_dispain5 Did you know: Growing up Breyden’s favorite player was Allen Iverson. College: Breyden has multiple DI offers for both football and basketball. Quote: “One day when I’m older I will be with Lense Ramey IV fishing.”

Josh Turley Afton Eagles Sr. 6-3 Small Forward No Twitter Did you know: Before every game Josh shoots 100 free throws. College: Josh is undecided as to where he will attend school next year. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be Kevin Durant because he’s always working hard and helping kids.”

Keara Battenfield Verdigris Lady Cardinals Jr. 5-9 Point Guard @kbat_02 Did you know: Growing up Keara’s favorite player was Steph Curry. College: Keara is being recruited by Oklahoma State University, Kansas State University, and the University of TexasArlington. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me at church or with my family and friends.”

Keni Jo Lippe Adair Lady Warriors Jr. 5-9 Small Forward @kenilippe Did you know: Keni feels that she has been called into missions. College: Keni is being recruited by Oral Roberts University and the University of Tulsa. Quote: “Everything I do is for the glory of God and when I’m older I will go on mission trip and spread God’s word.”

Kyanne Beene Chelsea Lady Green Dragons Jr. 5-8 Point Guard @kyanne_beene Did you know: Kyanne likes to hunt. College: Kyanne is being recruited by Rogers State University. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me hanging out with my friends.”

Laef Payne Verdigris Cardinals Sr. 6-3 Point Guard @paynelaef Did you know: Laef’s favorite place to play is the Big House. College: Laef is being recruited by the University of Tulsa, Army, Missouri Southern, and the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. Quote: “In college I would like to study Environmental Engineering and become a biologist.

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Not Pictured Carsyn Spurgeon - Vinita

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Mikayla Shulanberger Skiatook Lady Bulldogs Sr. 5-9 Forward @Mikaylaa_s11 Did you know: Mikayla says she likes to eat…a lot. College: Mikayla is being recruited by Rice, Missouri State University, UCO and several others. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be coach Cantrell because I want to see what it’s like to put up with me everyday.”

Tylor Arnold Pryor Tigers Jr. 6-2 Shooting Guard @tarnold__ Did you know: Tylor is a 4.0 student and would like to study Engineering in college. College: Tylor is undecided as to where he will attend school. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me playing baseball or golf.”

NORTH OKLAHOMA Chelsea Lazenby Glencoe Lady Panthers Jr. 5-8 Forward @_chelsea_33 Did you know: Chelsea has 6 brothers and when she’s not on the court you can find her with her family. College: Chelsea is still undecided on where she will attend school. Quote: “I would like to study with Education or Physical Therapy in college.”

Maverick Ball Cleveland Tigers Sr. 6-2 Shooting Guard @maverick_ball9 Did you know: Maverick loves to buy shoes. College: Maverick is undecided on where he will attend school next year. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be a member of Dude Perfect because they have my dream job.”

Dylan Fix Stillwater Lady Pioneers Sr. 5-5 Guard @dylanfix Did you know: Dylan is a 4.0 student and would like to study Allied Health or Biology in college. College: Dylan is being recruited by Arkansas Tech and Southwestern Oklahoma State University. Quote: “One day when I’m older I will travel the world.”

Gideon Gardner Pawnee Black Bears Sr. 6-2 Combo Guard @gid32 Did you know: Gideon would like to study Physical Therapy in college. College: Gideon is still undecided on where he will attend school next year. Quote: “I am the hardest working kid in the state and I love the game.”

Mckenna Pulley Newkirk Lady Tigers Sr. 5-9 Guard @kennap12 Did you know: Mckenna is a cat lover. College: Mckenna is still undecided on where she will go to school next year. Quote: “My mother, Dana, is my biggest role model and influence in life.”

Trey Lazenby Glencoe Panthers So. 6-0 Point Guard @zebo35 Did you know: Trey loves to hunt. College: Trey is undecided on where he will go to college. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be my grandpa because I miss him.”

Tyra Aska Coyle Lady Bluejackets Sr. 5-7 Point Guard @_iiamtyra Did you know: Tyra loves to rodeo and when she’s not on the court you can find her riding horses. College: Tyra is being recruited by OCU, Langston, and Southwestern Oklahoma State University. Quote: “Growing up my favorite player was my big sister TiAra Aska.”

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NORTHWEST OKLAHOMA Vaughn Raney Cashion Wildcats Sr. 6-2 Point Guard @vaughnraney20 Did you know: Vaughn is the Student Council President at Cashion. College: Vaughn is being recruited by Rogers State and Southern Nazarene University. Quote: “When I’m older and out of school I would like to be a doctor.” Sarah Garvie Burlington Lady Elks Sr. 5-7 Point Guard @sarahgarvie22 Did you know: Sarah’s nickname is Bear. College: Several schools are beginning to show interest in Sarah but she is still undecided as to where she will attend. Quote: “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31 Hillary Hurst Woodward Lady Boomers Sr. 5-11 Guard @hillary__hurst Did you know: Hillary says her coach, Kinzie Didier, is the biggest influence in her life. College: Hillary is committed to Oral Roberts University. Quote: “My favorite place to play is Boomer Fieldhouse and before every game I pray and listen to Uptown Funk.” Tiarra Davis Pond Creek-Hunter Lady Panthers Sr. 5-6 Point Guard @tmddavis10 Did you know: Tiarra doesn’t like potato chips. College: Several schools are beginning to show interest in Tiarra but she is still undecided as to where she will attend. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me running marathons.”

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Cole Jones Pond Creek-Hunter Panthers So. 5-10 Point Guard @crisscrosscole2 Did you know: Cole’s favorite place to play is Frontier. College: Cole is only a sophomore and is looking forward to beginning his recruiting process. Quote: “My dad is my biggest role model because he taught me how to play the game.”

Jeremiah Bozeman Alva Goldbugs Sr. 6-2 Point Guard @jboze22 Did you know: Growing up Jeremiah’s favorite player was Rajon Rondo. College: Jeremiah is being recruited by NWOSU and Spring Hill College in Alabama. Quote: “My parents are my biggest role models because they always push me to be the best I can be.” Garrett Owen Woodward Boomers Sr. 5-10 Point Guard @garrett_owen Did you know: Although he isn’t even 6-foot tall, Garrett can dunk. College: Garrett is being recruited by NSU, Missouri Western, and West Texas A&M. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me in my deer stand or fishing.”

Bailey Vogt Okarche Lady Warriors Jr. 5-6 Guard @baileyannv Did you know: Bailey would like to study Special Education in college. College: Bailey’s recruitment is expected to ramp up this season as she begins her junior year. Quote: “My sister. Morgan, is the biggest influence in my life.”

Taylor Hedrick Seiling Lady Wildcats Sr. 5-9 Guard @taylorhedrick Did you know: Before every game Taylor eats beef jerky and drinks Dr. Pepper. College: Taylor is committed to Southwestern Oklahoma State University. Quote: “I want to become a coach one day when I’m older and out of school.” Jaden Hobbs Alva Lady Bugs Sr. 5-7 Point Guard @jadenann23 Did you know: Jaden can shoot a rifle better than she can a basketball. College: Jaden is committed to Oklahoma State University. Quote: “In college I would like to study something to do with the medical field.”

Destiny Alston Forgan Lady Bulldogs So. 5-11 Point Guard @destiny23alsto1 Did you know: Destiny says most people don’t know she likes turtles. College: Destiny is being recruited by OSU along with several other DI schools. Quote: “The biggest influence in my life has been Lonnie Bailey and my parents, they have pushed and supported me to become the person I am today.” Andi Pierce Garber Lady Wolverines Sr. 5-10 Guard @pierceandi Did you know: Growing up Andi’s favorite player was Chelsie Welch. College: Andi is being recruited by UCO, Southern Arkansas, Western Illinois and others. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me with my family and friends.”

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OKLAHOMA CITY AREA Ana Llanusa Choctaw Lady Yellowjackets Jr. 5-11 Guard @ana_llanusa Did you know: Ana was once a gymnast. And before every game she paints her nails and puts here hair in a bun. College: Ana is committed to the University of Oklahoma. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day, I would be Beyoncé because she is flawless.”

Brady Manek Harrah Panthers Jr. 6-9 Small Forward @bradymanek Did you know: Brady is a great student and carries a 4.0 GPA. College: Brady is being recruited by Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Tulsa, Creighton, and more. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me in front of a TV.”

Carlos Coppage II Harding Charter Prep Eagles Jr. 5-10 Point Guard @lostheshooow Did you know: Carlos wants to coach college basketball after he’s out of school. College: Carlos is being recruited by SMU, Colgate, Tulsa, and UNC Charlotte. Quote: “One thing people don’t know about me is that I have to eat cereal before I go to sleep.” Deshawn McDowell Southeast Spartans Sr. 6-5 Point Guard @yoboysmooth Did you know: Deshawn said the toughest place to play is “nowhere, it’s all easy”. College: Deshawn is committed to Southern Methodist University. Quote: “Growing up my favorite player was LeBron James and one day when I’m older I will be playing in the NBA.”

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Not Pictured Jakolby Long - Mustang

Areanna Combs Putnam City West Lady Patriots Sr. 5-11 Guard @areannacombs Did you know: Areanna is a great artist and can draw extremely well. College: Areanna is committed to Oklahoma State University. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me at home.” Brooklyn Judkins Bethany Lady Bronchos Sr. 5-9 Guard @brooklynjudkins Did you know: Before every game Brooklyn dances and sings. College: Brooklyn is being recruited by DI schools such as Cal State Bakersfield and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Quote: “One day when I’m older and out of school I will be on The Bachelor.” Chinna Fair Midwest City Lady Bombers Sr. 5-10 Combo Guard @_therealchin Did you know: Chinna loves pasta and her favorite thing to eat is spaghetti. College: Chinna is committed to the University of TexasArlington. Quote: “When I’m older and out of school, I will be teaching and coaching.”

Elyjah Clark Deer Creek Antlers Sr. 6-2 Combo Guard @elyjah15 Did you know: Before every game Elyjah drinks Gatorade and eats candy. College: Elyjah is being recruited by Missouri Southern, UCO, OBU, and others. Quote: “One thing people don’t know about me is I’m from Miami Florida.”

Asia Davis Midwest City Lady Bombers Sr. 5-7 Combo Guard @yungAswizzle Did you know: Asia would like to study Sports Medicine in college. College: Asia is drawing interest from several schools but is undecided as to where she will attend next year. Quote: “One thing people don’t know about me is that I hate not being around my parents.”

Cameron Martin Norman North Timberwolves Jr. 6-9 Forward @bigcam30 Did you know: Cameron’s favorite place to play are the courts by his house. College: Cameron is being recruited by Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Houston, Mercer, and more. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me in the weight room.”

Curtis Haywood II Mustang Broncos Sr. 6-5 Shooting Guard @sonofadragon Did you know: Curtis would like to study Criminology in college. College: Curtis is being recruited by Houston, Fresno State, Wichita State, Tulsa, UTEP, and others. Quote: “My role model is my father and the biggest influence on me is LeBron James.” Jo’Nah Johnson Edmond Santa Fe Lady Wolves Jr. 5-7 Combo Guard @jonahjohnson14 Did you know: Growing up Jo’Nah’s favorite player was Allen Iverson. College: Jo’Nah is already being recruited by Duke, Texas A&M, Kansas, Kentucky, and more. Quote: “One day when I’m older and out of school I plan to become a physical therapist.”

Katie Mayo Newcastle Lady Racers Jr. 6-0 Center @katelyn_ann25 Did you know: Growing up Katie’s favorite player was Whitney Hand. College: Katie is being recruited by Oklahoma Baptist University, Southwestern Oklahoma State University, and University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma. Quote: “I love the game and I’ll do anything to be able to play.”

Marquis Johnson Putnam City West Patriots Sr. 5-9 Point Guard @marquiss10 Did you know: Before every game Marquis shoots around in the gym. College: Marquis is being recruited by UTEP, Sam Houston State, Nebraska, and others. Quote: “My parents and my coach are my role models and one day when I’m older I want to be a good role model like them.” Taylor Roberts Classen SAS Lady Comets Jr. 5-11 Combo Guard @tayhoops_0 Did you know: Growing up Taylor’s favorite player was Candace Parker. College: Taylor is being recruited by Arkansas, Toledo, Tulsa, and UMKC. Quote: “My father Malcolm Roberts is my biggest role model and influence in my life.”

Kellen Manek Harrah Panthers Sr. 6-7 Power Forward @kellenmanek Did you know: Kellen would like to study Physical Therapy in college. College: Kellen is committed to Oral Roberts University. Quote: “One thing people don’t know about me is that I like soccer and when I’m not on the floor you can find me on the Xbox.”

Morgan Meacham Heritage Hall Lady Chargers Sr. 5-10 Shooting Guard @m_meach143 Did you know: Morgan would like to study Journalism and Psychology in college while minoring in Photo Journalism. College: Morgan is committed to Florida Gulf Coast University Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me watching Netflix.”

Trae Young Norman North Timberwolves Jr. 6-2 Point Guard @thetraeyoung Did you know: Before every game Trae splashed water in his face to wake up. College: Trae is being recruited by Kentucky, Duke, Kansas, Arizona, Michigan State, and many more. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me at the mall.”

Kristian Doolittle Edmomd Memorial Bulldogs Sr. 6-7 Small Foward @kristiandoolittle Did you know: Kristian can play the piano. And he says his brother is his biggest role model. College: Kristian is committed to the University of Oklahoma. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me chilling with my friends.” Sydney Manning Deer Creek Lady Antlers So. 5-8 Guard @sydneymanning34 Did you know: Sydney plays competitive golf. College: Sydney is being recruited by several local colleges. Quote: “Before every game I eat skittles and when I’m not on the court you can find me eating popsicles and on the golf course.” Tre Evans Edmond North Huskies Sr. 6-2 Point Guard @trecarlton5 Did you know: Before every game Tre has to eat candy. College: Tre is being recruited by Old Dominion, Missouri, Ole Miss, OU, OSU, and others. Quote: “One day when I’m older I want to be a sports analyst on ESPN.

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SOUTHEAST OKLAHOMA Bishop Coulter Atoka Wampus Cats Sr. 6-6 Center @bishopcoulter Did you know: Before every game Bishop listens to motivational speeches. College: Bishop is being recruited by Georgia State, North Carolina A&T, and multiple junior colleges. Quote: “I’d like to study Business in college and then when I’m older own my own business.”

Brad Davis Red Oak Eagles Sr. 5-10 Point Guard @braddlee_3 Did you know: Brad says that he is extremely hard on himself. College: Brad is still undecided on where he will attend next year. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me out running somewhere.”

Genna Robinson Bethel Lady Wildcats Sr. 5-4- Point Guard @G_leeann21 Did you know: Genna hopes to one day become a Pediatric Oncologist. College: Genna is still undecided on where she will attend next year. Quote: “My biggest role model is my mom; she pushes me to do the right thing and to always give God the glory.”

Michaela Richbourg Broken Bow Lady Savages Jr. 508 Forward No Twitter Did you know: Michaela says one thing people don’t know about her is she is really shy. College: Michaela is being recruited by Rice and Oklahoma Baptist University. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be Ronda Rousey because she’s a competitor.”

Todd Dawkins McAlester Buffalos Sr. 6-5 Shooting Guard @tad2313 Did you know: Growing up Todd’s favorite player was Tracy McGrady. College: Todd has an offer from Southeastern Oklahoma State University and he is being recruited by several other schools. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me hunting or fishing.”

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Claire Chastain Dale Lady Pirates So. 6-0 Power Forward @clairechassy Did you know: Claire would like to study Business in college. College: Claire is being recruited by Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and the University of TexasArlington. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me studying or in the the gym.”

Rainey Mauzey Red Oak Lady Eagles Sr. 5-10 Forward @raineymauzey Did you know: Rainey is very crafty. College: Rainey is still undecided where she will attend school next year. Quote: “My biggest role model is my sister, Sarah, she was an amazing athlete in high school and I always have wanted to be better than her in every sport.”

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SOUTHWEST OKLAHOMA Aliyah White Anadarko Lady Warriors Sr. 5-11 Center @aliyahsuzannahw Did you know: Aliyah is “freaked out” by the sight of blood. College: After a great summer season Aliyah is beginning to draw interest from several DI schools. Quote: “My favorite place to play is the Anadarko Fieldhouse and before every game I pray and listen to music.”

Bryson Lierle Lookeba-Sickles Panthers Sr. 6-2 Point Guard @brysonlierle Did you know: Bryson says the toughest place to play is the Big House because of the atmosphere. College: Bryson is drawing interest from several school but is undecided. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me in the batting cage.”

Darius Roy Eisenhower Eagles Sr. 6-1 Combo Guard @ohthats_dare Did you know: Darius would like to study Business in college. College: Darius is verbally committed to Mercer. Quote: “My favorite place to play is Putnam City West and before every game I just listen to music and stretch.” Makenzie Janz Erick Lady Bearcats Sr. 5-8 Forward @makenziejustine Did you know: Makenzie is scared of heights. College: Makenzie is being recruited by USAO and SCU. Quote: “If I could be anyone for day I would be Stephen Curry because he’s an awesome player and shows his Christian beliefs.”

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Amanda Hart Hydro-Eakly Lady Bobcats Sr. 5-10 Guard @amandahart22 Did you know: Amanda is an avid reader and growing up Amanda’s favorite player was Larry Bird. College: Amanda has offers from several DII schools. Quote: “One day when I’m older and out of school I want to travel the world.”

Braden O’Dell Marlow Outlaws Sr. 6-0 Small Forward @bodell06 Did you know: Braden would like to study mechanical engineering in college. College: Braden is a threesport star at Marlow and is receiving interest from several schools. Quote: “Before every game I read out of the Bible.”

Cameron Hines Fort Cobb-Broxton Mustangs Jr. 5-10 Point Guard @hines1302 Did you know: Before every game Cameron and his teams sing Jesus Loves me. College: Cameron is being recruited by the University of South Dakota, Cornell, and several others. Quote: “My dad is my biggest role model.”

Connor Karpe Lindsay Leopards Sr. 6-5 Guard/Forward @ckarpe23 Did you know: Connor would like to study Health and Physical Education in college. College: Connor is drawing interest from several school but is undecided. Quote: “One day when I’m older I will be living on a farm and coaching.”

Dominique Golightly Chickasha Lady Chicks Sr. 5-11 Guard/Forward @dominiqueee_23 Did you know: Before every game Dominique eats a banana. College: Dominique is committed to Abilene Christian University. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day Skylar Diggins because she’s a beast on the court and she’s beautiful (plus I want that Nike contract!).” Marvin Johnson Ardmore Tigers Jr. 6-5 Shooting Guard @bucketteamceo Did you know: Marvin loves to ride horses and does so frequently. College: Marvin is being recruited by Texas, Creighton, Houston, the University of Tulsa, and Oral Roberts University. Quote: “My biggest role model is my stepfather, Virgil Harmon.”

Kelsey Johnson Washington Lady Warriors Sr. 6-3 Center @kelslynn33 Did you know: Kelsey would like to study Nursing in college. College: Kelsey is committed to the University of TexasArlington. Quote: “Growing up my favorite players were Oklahoma Lady Sooners stars Ashley and Courtney Paris.”

Ryan Ross Velma-Alma Comets Sr. 6-2 Point Guard @ross33_va Did you know: Ryan has never seen the movie Space Jam. College: Ryan is drawing interest from several schools but is undecided as to where he will attend. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me hanging out with my girlfriend.”

THREE RIVERS OKLAHOMA Aaliyah Wilson Muskogee Lady Roughers Sr. 5-10 Guard @iown_therock Did you know: Aaliyah likes to ride horses. College: Aaliyah is being recruited by Rutgers, LSU, Kansas, Arkansas, Baylor, and Missouri. Quote: “I’m never comfortable or satisfied with where I’m at and when I’m not on the court you can find me dreaming about the future.” Erin Gray Eufaula Lady Ironheads Jr. 5-6 Combo Guard @erintayloregray Did you know: Erin used to be a gymnast. College: Erin is being recruited by Drake, Princeton, and Arkansas State. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be Carrie Underwood because she can sing.”

Jada Ford Muskogee Lady Roughers Sr. 5-10 Shooting Guard @_jford Did you know: Jada likes to dance but says she has no rhythm. College: Jada is committed to Arkansas State University. Quote: “In college I want to study Sports Medicine and when I’m older become a coach or athletic trainer.”

Coby Goodman Preston Pirates Jr. 6-5 Center @tootallgoodman Did you know: Coby would like to study Civil Engineering in college. College: Coby is being recruited by the University of Dallas. Quote: “Before every game I look at all the banners on the wall.” Tavian Davis Muskogee Roughers Sr. 6-1 Shooting Guard @amazingslash Did you know: Tavian was also in the VYPE Top 100 for football. College: Tavian is committed to Rogers State University. Quote: “When I’m not in the court you can find me in the weight room.”

Cenia Hayes Sequoyah Tahlequah Lady Eagles Jr. 5-10 Combo Guard @ceniahayes Did you know: Cenia would like to study Medical Technology in college. College: Cenia is being recruited by UMKC, Wichita State, the Naval Academy, and more. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me reading a book.”

Darius Riggs Okay Mustangs Jr. 6-0 Small Forward No Twitter Did you know: Darius loves to fish. College: Darius is undecided as to where he will go to school next year. Quote: “My coach is my biggest role model because he pushes me to become a stronger person every day.”

Gavin Brown Howe Lions Sr. 6-2 Shooting Guard @laker_fanatic12 Did you know: Growing up Gavin’s favorite player was Kobe Bryant. College: Gavin is undecided as to where he will go to school next year. Quote: “In college I would like to study Occupational Safety.”

Jace Welch Keota Lions Sr. 6-1 Combo Guard @j5welch Did you know: Before every game Jace sleeps and listens to music. College: Jace is undecided as to where he will go to school next year. Quote: “When I’m older I will probably be coaching basketball or football.”

Katie Kirkhart Hilldale Lady Hornets Sr. 5-9 Point Guard @_kakirkhart27 Did you know: Katie is obsessed with shoes. College: Katie will be attending Oral Roberts University next year to play golf. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me on the golf course or at church.”

KiEssence Shields Preston Lady Pirates Jr. 6-0 Power Forward @kiki_shields Did you know: KiEssence loves to read and does so often. College: KiEssence is being recruited the University of New Mexico and the University of ArkansasLittle Rock. Quote: “One day when I’m older I will give back and help children.”

Mason Fielden Hulbert Riders Sr. 6-1 Point Guard @masonfielden5 Did you know: Growing up Mason’s favorite player was Dwyane Wade. College: Mason is being recruited by several small colleges. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be Steph Curry because he gets buckets.” Trena Mims Muskogee Lady Roughers So. 5-6 Point Guard No Twitter Did you know: Before every game Trena eats Xtremes. College: Trena is being recruited by North Texas, Tulsa, Wichita State, Kansas, Kansas State, and more. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be Beyonce because she is amazing.”

Mikiah McDonald Roland Lady Rangers Sr. 5-8 Forward @mikiahfaith22 Did you know: Mikiah says that she is “a big teddy bear”. College: Mikiah is undecided as to where she would like to go next year. Quote: “My grandma Shevonda Clardy has been the biggest role model in my life.”

TULSA AREA Addison Richards Bixby Lady Spartans Sr. 6-1 Shooting Guard @Addy_Richards Did you know: Addison likes to sing but admits she is “terrible” at it. College: Addison has committed to play at the University of Tulsa. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be Beyonce because she is amazing.”

Adrian RodriguezEstrada Union Redskins Jr. 6-7 Power Forward @_are30 Did you know: Along with being a standout on the hardwood, Adrian is also a very talented soccer player. College: Adrian is being recruited by the likes of Air Force, Penn and ORU. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me playing 2K.”

Alex Ogunseye Sapulpa Chieftains Sr. 6-5 Forward @AOgunseye Guard Did you know: Alex’s favorite player growing up was Blake Griffin. College: Alex is being recruited by UCO, St. Gregory’s, Rogers State and Southwestern College. Quote: “When I’m older and out of school I will be coaching a sport.”

Alexis Gaulden Broken Arrow Lady Tigers Sr. 5-7 Guard @alexisgaulden Did you know: Along with being a great athlete Gaulden is a great student and carries a 3.6 GPA. College: Alexis is committed to play at the University of Tulsa. Quote: “One thing people don’t know about me is that I can dance.”

Aysia Evans Broken Arrow Lady Tigers Sr. 5-6 Combo Guard @Aysh_E Did you know: Aysia writes with her right hand but plays left-handed. College: Aysia is committed to play at the University of TexasArlington. Quote: “When I’m older and out of school I will work with kids that are less fortunate than I am.”

Brice Calip Sapulpa Lady Chieftains Sr. 5-8 Guard @briceycalip3 Did you know: Soccer was actually Brice’s first love, not basketball. College: Brice is being recruited by Kansas, University of ArkansasLittle Rock and Missouri State University. Quote: “One day when I am older I will be in a big city working as a physical therapist.”

Chelsea Dungee Sapulpa Lady Chieftains Sr. 5-10 Guard @chelseadungee22 Did you know: Before every game Chelsea eats Skittles. College: Chelsea is committed to play at Oklahoma University following her high school career. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be Kobe Bryant because I admire him.” Kara Speer Metro Christian Lady Patriots Jr. 5-9 Small Forward/ Shooting Guard @speerkara Did you know: Kara would like to study Education in college. College: Kara is starting to draw some interest from schools and is expecting her recruitment to ramp up this season. Quote: “When I’m not on the court you can find me spending time with my friends.” 30

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Eva Lewis Will Rogers Lady Ropers Sr. 6-1 Forward @__evaaa Did you know: Eva likes to sing and before every game she listens to music. College: Eva is currently being recruited by the University of Tulsa, Arkansas State and others. Quote: “Coach Tia is my biggest influence and role model.” Lense Ramey IV Kiefer Trojans Sr. 6-4 Shooting Guard @L_Ramey10 Did you know: Lense doesn’t limit himself to just basketball. He also plays three other sports at Kiefer. College: Currently being recruited by Florida Gulf Coast and the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. Quote: “When I’m older I will be with fellow VYPE Top 100 player Breyden DeSpain fishing.”

Kairee Cooks Daniel Webster Warriors Sr. 6-2 Shooting Guard @Kcooks_21 Did you know: Growing up Kairee’s favorite player was Allen Iverson. College: Kairee already has an offer from Rogers State University but is also receiving interest from other schools like ORU and UCO. Quote: “When I’m older and out of school I will be playing basketball overseas.” Logan Mullins Sperry Pirates Sr. 6-1 Power Forward @loganmullins22 Did you know: Before every game Logan eats cookies and candy. College: Logan is drawing interest from several different schools and is excited to have the chance to impress more schools this season. Quote: “One thing people don’t know about me is that I own 33 different pairs of shoes.”

TTCU

Academic

ATHLETE of the MONTH

KellenSimmons Stauder Union High School Dylan Holland Hall Kellen Stauder is the starting left tackle on the football team at Union High School and was named captain for his

Olorepro torio te maio que pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto senior season. On the football field Stauder has shown the ability to help lead the Redskins and play at the high level volesequi doluptas disciendic te estrum exand excearum eumbyliquiat expected ofquam a Union football molorrunti player. Stauder excels in the classroom has beenquatus nominated Unionesti High School as an Academic All-State candidate. Kellen also is a contributing member of the Union basketball team and the Union sus, secuptaquo venisqui dem quatia verita volupta tempore pliquunt eos. Olorepro torio te track team. Stauder recently scored a 34 on the ACT. His GPA is 3.92 unweighted and 4.711 weighted. His class rank maio que pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto volesequi quam dolupis 60 out of approximately 1200 students placing him in the top five percent of his class. He is a member of National tas molorrunti disciendic te estrum excearum quatus Honor Society, FCA and TeePee Crew. Stauder will receive theeum. Community Service Award (200 Service Hours) and Distinguished Graduate Award (100 Service Hours; no grade below a “C”; with at least 12 units of PreAp/AP classes) upon graduation. Not only is Stauder a leader on the football field, but he is a leader in the classroom and for that commitment to his education, Kellen Stauder is the TTCU Athlete of the Month.

Serena RejoiceKelley Christian KendraNicholls Poarch Bishop HighSchool School Senior Serena Nicholls is leaving her mark at Rejoice Christian School on and off the volleyball court. As a Olorepro torio te maio queteam pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitasover eostisto member of the varsity volleyball Nicholls has recorded more than 440 kills, 60 blocks and 160 aces. The middle hitter hasdoluptas been dominant at her position andte head coachex Wally Poplin has enjoyed having her on volesequi quam molorrunti disciendic estrum excearum quatus eum liquiat esti the team. “Nicholls is our all-star. She is a three-year starter and has been a part of two state tournament teams. sus, venisqui dem quatia verita pliquunt eos.Nicholls Olorepro toriothe te She ledsecuptaquo us in kills, blocks and was second in aces last volupta year,” saidtempore Poplin. In the classroom applies maio que pro et hit quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto quam dolupsame passion she has forautendis volleyball.eosant Her schedule is full of AP classes including Calculus,volesequi Psychology, Literature and honors Physics. She’s also a member of the National Honor Society and plans to play tennis this spring. “AP tas molorrunti disciendic te estrum excearum quatus eum liquiat esti sus. Calculus is my favorite class. I really like my teacher, Mrs. Poplin, and I love the way that the class challenges me,” said Nicholls. After high school she plans to attend the University of Oklahoma or Oklahoma State to pursue a degree in engineering.

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Mallory Vaughn Collinsville Lady Cardinals Jr. 6-4 Forward/Center @MalloryLVaughn Did you know: Mallory loves to read. College: Mallory is currently being recruited by Tulsa, Colorado, Nebraska, Texas Tech and more. Quote: “When I’m not on the floor you can find me watching Grey’s Anatomy.”

Mya Bhinhar Owasso Lady Rams So. 5-9 Combo Guard @myabhinhar Did you know: Mya says she is “horrible at golf.” College: Mya has already signed with the University of Arkansas. Quote: “Growing up my favorite player was Maya Moore, but if I could be anyone for a day I would be Michael Jordan because there was nobody better.”

Richard “RJ” Fuqua II Booker T. Washington Hornets Jr. 6-0 Point Guard @rjfuqua Did you know: Before every game RJ prays and speaks to his dad. College: RJ is being recruited by ORU and the University of Tulsa. Quote: “When I’m older and out of school I will own my own business.”

Sydney Stout Bixby Lady Spartans Sr. 6-0 Guard/Forward @Sydney_lynn12 Did you know: Sydney likes to dance even though she says she is no good at it. College: Sydney will be attending the University of Arkansas as a preferred walk-on. Quote: “If I could be anyone for a day I would be Beyonce because she’s awesome and can sing.”

Ethan Chargois Union Redskins Jr. 6-8 Power Forward @Ethan_Chargo1s Did you know: Ethan is a very good bowler along with being a force on the basketball floor. College: Ethan already has offers from Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Tulsa but is also being recruited by schools like, Texas Tech and TCU. Quote: “Growing up my favorite player was Melo.”

Rachel Skalnik Owasso Lady Rams Sr. 5-7 Combo Guard @raunch_skally Did you know: Rachel said one thing people don’t know about her is that she loves socks. College: Rachel is being recruited by West Texas A&M, Austin College and Southern Arkansas University. Quote: “When I’m not on the floor you can find me hammocking and playing guitar.”

TJ Washington Jenks Trojans Sr. 6-0 Point Guard @Tjwashington3 Did you know: TJ’s sister Jessica plays for the University of Kansas and TJ lists his mother as the biggest influence and role model in his life. College: TJ has already signed with Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. Quote: “Growing up my favorite player was LeBron James.”

Caleb Nero Memorial Chargers Jr. 6-2 Point Guard @calebdn10 Did you know: Caleb is a bit of an outdoorsman and likes to fish. College: Caleb is being recruited by Nebraska, UNC Greensboro, Wake Forest and ORU. Quote: “When I’m not on the floor you can find me watching basketball videos and studying the game.”

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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IT’S HERE......

What High School Fans Have Been Waiting Decades For

INTRODUCING

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

CASADY CYCLONES Boys Coach: Demarcco Owens 14-15 Record: 13-13

Outlook: After going 13-13 last year and qualifying for the Southwest Prepatory Conference Tournament, and then winning a game in the tournament, the Casady boys and head coach Demarcco Owens are expecting some big things this season. “These guys have been my starters ever since they have been freshmen. They have grown together, and now that they have the experience I believe we are willing to do well,” Owens said. Junior point guard Omar Boone will be the floor general for the Cyclones this year and an extension of coach Owens on the court.

Fellow juniors Jaylan Williams, Isaiah Livingston and Ryan Callahan will all also play major roles this season. Williams and Livingston will both anchor the frontcourt while Callahan joins Boone in the backcourt as the team’s shooting guard. Other key players that Owens will count on this year are seniors Will Harlow, Jack Trachtenberg and Gray Katigan along with sophomore Chandler Coleman. Girls Coach: Marion Tolon 14-15 Record: 6-15

Outlook: With a senior-laden roster the Casady Lady Cyclones and head coach Marion Tolon think that they could be on

the verge of a special year. “I’m excited for another year of basketball. Looking for a harvest from the seeds that we planted two years ago,” Tolon said. At the point guard spot look for senior Tek Kreidler to have a big season for the Lady Cyclones. Joining Kreidler in the backcourt will be seniors Allison Tien and Mackenzie Blalock. In the frontcourt the Lady Cyclones will be led by seniors Camille Jackson and Grace Huff. Other players expected to make big contributions to the team are senior Danielle Griffiths, juniors Grace Patton and Mi’Angila Graham along with sophomores Caroline Silver and Lauren Uhland.

GREEN COUNTRY DEFENDERS

The Defenders finished their season last year ranked 13th in the NCHBC (National Varsity Boy’s) rankings. This year should be even better with the addition of threetime NCHBC All-American LaRon Stokes (Sr.), Noah Banks (Sr.), and Javon Qualls (Sr.).

The Green Country Defenders are blessed to have the three-time NCHBC All-American candidate, Tulsa World “Mr. Inside” Nominee and three-year starter for the NOAH Jaguars, Stokes join us this year. He averaged 11.7 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks as a junior. Stokes can dominate both ends of the floor and has the potential to be as good as any big man in the state. He was selected to the All-Tournament team at the Jenks/Union invitational and was Oklahoma All-State honorable mention in 2014-15. At 6-foot-6, Banks is one of the more versatile players the Green Country Defenders have had. He averaged 14.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks per game last season, while shooting 65% from the field. Coming off the NCHBC Most Improved Player Award and Tulsa World’s All-Metro Honorable Mention last year as a junior, Peyton Francisco is a point guard in the truest sense. His ability to get his teammates the ball at the right time and spot are invaluable to the team. He has averaged 9.1 points, 7.7 assists, 2.5 assist/ turnover ratio and 3.0 steals as a junior. He was named to the National Homeschool All Region team and to the All-Tournament teams at the Dewey and Green Country tournaments in 2014-2015. 36

Qualls comes from the fantastic basketball VYPEOK.COM

tradition at Tulsa Union. He is a tremendous shooter with good touch, solid rebounder and passer. He is a vocal leader, encourager and has a team first attitude. His versatility will allow the team to do multiple things on both ends of the court this year Green Country Lady Defenders are a young squad coming off of last season’s historic finish ranked NCHBC No. 7. That marked their first time in the top 10 in homeschool basketball. The current season’s outlook is very bright for this

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young team, which possesses depth with ability. Returning starter for the Lady Defenders is sophomore power forward Melanie Williams (5-10) who led her team last year with 10.6 ppg and was Tulsa World All-Metro Honorable Mention as well as NCHBC South Central All-Region as a freshman. Joining her are a very quick duo of sisters, Avery (Jr.) and Abbey Phibbs (Fr.) as well as sophomores Annie Hogle and Ashley Duncan, and junior Allie Johnson.

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Tulsa Area Notes

What You Need To Know LINCOLN CHRISTIAN LADY BULLDOGS Led by senior Shaelyn Ward (5-9) the Lady Bulldogs and head coach Melody Stewart welcome the start of the new season as they look to build off the success of last season. Ward comes in averaging 12.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game and is one of the top track stars at Lincoln in the shot and discus. Guard play is crucial for Lincoln as Krysten Williams (5-6, Sr.) and Becca Gleason (5-7, Sr.) bring senior leadership to the court. Williams also averaged 5.6 points per game. Post player Makenzi Taylor (5-9, Sr.) and guard Cora Duininck (5-7, Jr.) look to contribute more on both ends of the floor this season. Emma Young, Jenna Vogt, Allie Helland and Anna Autaubo give coach Stewart quality depth on the bench. OWASSO RAMS

Kinzer Lambert BIXBY SPARTANS After only winning five games in a tough 2014-15 campaign, the Bixby Spartans and head coach Scott Padek are ready to get the season started and erase the memories of last season. Parker Jennings (5-10, Sr.) returns for the Spartans after averaging 16.1 points and 3.3 assists per game last year. Will Fiser (6-1, Jr.) will start at forward where he averaged 9.3 points and 3.8 rebounds a year ago. Joining Fiser at forward is Payton Sullivan (6-4, Sr.) who contributed 5.3 points and 4.4 rebounds per contest. Also look for Joey Homan (6-0, Jr.), Staton King (6-1, So.) and new addition to the squad, Cade Cavalli (6-4, Jr.). “We return a solid corps of guys from last year and the addition of Cade Cavalli will help tremendously,” said Padek. LADY HORNETS OF BOOKER T.

Annette Kennedy returns a ton of experience to the court this season as seniors Taylor Sells, Aiya El Hassan and Janay Hamilton. The trio will start at guard, center and forward respectively. Sells averaged 9.0 points and 2.3 assists last year, while El Hassan scored 6.3 points per game and grabbed 2.7 rebounds. Hamilton returns as the teams best rebounder going for 3.7 a game to go with her 5.7 points. Juniors Megan Jackson, Kambri Davison and Savannah Ellis are solid players and will shore up the backcourt.

The Rams have become accustom to winning and head coach Mark Vancuren is hopeful this young team can lean on that experience and make another successful run to the state tournament. Leading the way is senior guard Kinzer Lambert (6-4). Last season Lambert averaged 16 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. Lambert’s production with DeShawn Lowe’s ability to score nearly eight points a game give the Rams two legit scoring threats. Lowe (6-1, Sr.) will start at guard then a trio of sophomores round out the starting lineup. Josh Proctor (6-2), Jake Thompson (6-2) and Courtre’ Alexander (6-3) will all play major roles on the team this year. “This group has been exposed to winning at a high level. Hopefully they’ll have a burning desire to continue our tradition of success here,” said Vancuren. WILL ROGERS LADY ROPERS

Senior power forward Eva Lewis (6-0) returns for her final campaign in high school after averaging 23 points and 11 rebounds a game last year. A Top 100 player, Lewis is joined in the backcourt by Teriyon Thomas (5-4, Sr.) at point guard and shooting guard Mariah Walker (5-8, Sr.). This trio brings some dangerous offense to the court. The list of seniors on the roster continues with Kennedy Payne (5-8), Delainia Ford (5-4), Corey Black (5-9) and Kristen Peters (5-10). Juniors Desiree Cowans and Dierra Westbrook add more depth with sophomore Maleah Mumford backing up the power forward position.

COLLINSVILLE LADY CARDINALS

Head coach Susie Vaughn has a familiar name to lean on this season in junior Top 100 player Mallory Vaughn. The 6-foot-4 Vaughn averaged an amazing 19.2 points per game and dominated the boards averaging 7.0 rebounds. She also shot a 67% field goal percentage. With offers from Tulsa, Nebraska, Texas Tech and Missouri, Vaughn is only focused on getting her team to the state tournament. Brittany Kickapoo (5-9, Jr.) and Madison O’Dell (5-8, So.) will play key roles in the teams overall success this season. Kickapoo is a quick forward and should see an increase in production this season. Other players expected to contribute include Darci Chester (5-7, Jr.), Rylee Delozier (5-8, Jr.) and Makayla Bowman (5-8, Jr.).

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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Enid Area Basketball Players

Getting to Know Them

VYPE Editor Kyle Kendrick talked with four players from the Enid Area to give you an inside look at their lives on and off the court. Austin Whitehead – Enid Izzy Plunkett – Enid Tommy Grebe – Chisholm Kaylee Petersen - Chisholm VYPE: You guys are still trying to build to where you want to be as a basketball program. What’s one thing you hope to accomplish in your high school career? Grebe: Our goal this year is to go to the state tournament. We are working hard to get to the best of our ability this year to give us the best chance to win. Plunkett: I want to make it to the state tournament.

Petersen: We want to win state this year. We’re going to work harder in the preseason and expect it to pay off in the playoffs.

Whitehead: I want to win a state championship and lay a foundation for the younger kids coming up behind me. VYPE: You play multiple sports and don’t just focus on basketball. Is that something you think helps you throughout the season?

Grebe: Yes, for sure, because I compete in cross country and track, it puts me in much better shape during the season. It’s an advantage that when the opponent gets tired I am not. Plunkett: Yes, I like playing different sports so I’m not always doing the same thing.

Petersen: Yes, I feel like it helps me in the long run by showing me several different types of teams and how to work together to produce the best outcome we possibly can.

Tommy Grebe 40

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Whitehead: Yes. Competing in basketball, baseball and football has given me many experiences that have taught me how to handle high pressure situations. I’ve also had to learn to communicate with a lot of different coaches. Each coach

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

has helped me further my athletic career. Football has helped me become physically stronger and baseball has made me mentally tough. Both are critical to competing in 6A basketball. VYPE: Your dream vacation is?

Grebe: I was actually able to take my dream vacation this summer to Hawaii.

Izzy Plunkett

Plunkett: Somewhere with a beach.

Petersen: Zermatt, Switzerland to ski with my Dad Whitehead: To go Elk Hunting in Colorado.

VYPE: One thing fans need to know about your team is? Grebe: We play with our hearts, there is never a game where we don’t give it our all. Plunkett: We are working on being a defensive team and setting our goals on the state tournament.

Austin Whitehead

Petersen: We aren’t done yet. Sure, last year was a great run. This year will be even better. Whitehead: Every time we take the court, nobody will outwork us. Coach Hilterbran will make sure that we are better prepared than any team we face.

Kaylee Petersen

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Edmond Area Notes

What You Need To Know renewed excitement for the upcoming season.

Leading the way is point guard Paige Serup (5-6). Last season Serup averaged 13 points per game with 3.8 assists and 2.0 steals.

“We have a great senior class that will lead the Lady Bulldogs to success. This years team has really worked hard in the preseason. Paige Serup is an outstanding leader and a four year starter,” said coach Peeler. Senior guards Sydney Webb, Maddie Huelskamp, Elyse Wyatt and Jazmyne Laskey bring leadership to floor, while senior forward Avery Ogle (5-11) will add height down low. Junior Rebecca Foster (5-7) and sophomore Kendra Levings (5-11) are interchangeable at guard and forward. Freshmen guards Taylor Norman and Erin Erdoes add depth to the roster. TOP SCORERS RETURN FOR LADY HUSKIES

James Bagwell NO TITLE DEFENSE FOR DEER CREEK The Lady Antlers are the three time defending state champions in Class 5A, but making it four in a row will not happen. Deer Creek and head coach Totsy Manning make the jump to Class 6A this season and coach Manning understand what it takes to win in a larger class. “We have a young team that will be taking the court this season. Our players are committed to each other and developing into a complete product with one goal,” said Manning.

Sophomore Sydney Manning was named MVP of the state tournament and newcomer of the year last season thanks to her 12 points per game and her play on both ends of the court. Junior point guard Maddie Rehl and senior guard MK Brinska are valuable assets coach Manning will depend on this season. A few underclassmen could dot the starting lineup, but also look for senior Kelcee Bennett (5-10) to contribute some quality minutes at the post position. Can the Lady Antlers make the jump and still be state champions? Anything is possible when you have one of the top players in the state and a program with a winning pedigree.

DANDY PEELER & LADY BULLDOGS LOOK TO SENIORS

Edmond Memorial head coach Dandy Peeler enters the 2015/16 season with six seniors on the roster and a 42

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

The schedule never gets any easier in Class 6A, but for the Lady Huskies and head coach Pete Papahronis returning the teams two leading scorers may take some of the pressure off. “We are looking to continue to build and improve. The team has worked hard in the offseason to prepare for a brutal conference. We have three and a half starters returning including our top two scorers from last year. We should be much a improved team from a season ago,” said Papahronis.

Senior Hayli Hoffman averaged 10.3 points per game, while junior Abby Olsen averaged 11.4 points. The combo will get assistance from Kendall Burdge and fellow senior Elise Dilks at forward. Emma Ledbetter and Veronica Harjo add depth to the guard and forward positions. BAGWELL MAKING RETURN FOR SANTA FE

Senior James Bagwell will make his return to the court for Santa Fe and head coach Lenny Hatchett this season. Bagwell suffered a knee injury that ended his season a year ago, but after months of rehab, Bagwell is ready to get back on the floor. “It means everything to be back on the court with such a great group of guys. We’re all excited to build off the momentum we had going last year and make another run at the gold ball,” said Bagwell. Fully healed from the tibial plateau fracture, Bagwell is ready to help Wolves write a new chapter in Santa Fe history.

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Triple Threat

Muskogee Lady Roughers

Aaliyah Wilson, Jada Ford and Trena Mims Create Endless Challenges on the Hardwood to prove it and keep pushing to be better every game.

Mims: It’s everything to me. We’re like sisters and we expect to be the best and expect the best of each other, no excuses. VYPE: What is the best part of your individual game of basketball?

Wilson: I play with a very high motor and I do my best to keep the same intensity on both ends of the court.

It’s a rare opportunity to have two Division-I level players on the high school same team, but when the talent pool includes three such as the Lady Roughers trio of Aaliyah Wilson, Jada Ford and Trena Mims, the opportunity for a state championship gold ball is well within reach. After a Class 6A state semi-final exit in 2014 and taking home the silver ball as state runner-up last year, Muskogee’s dynamic threesome are focused on completing their dream in 2016. VYPE went one-on-one with questions to uncover their game plan for success. VYPE: At what age did you first start playing basketball?

Wilson: Ever since I can remember, getting on the court at half time when I was three. My first team was a boys team at the YMCA. Ford: I was only five years old, playing Upward basketball with Aaliyah and we played Ft. Gibson.

Mims: My mom coached Jada and me on a team called the WCC Angels.

VYPE: What does it mean to you to know that Muskogee is considered one of the best teams and that the three of you are the best 1-2-3 combination in Oklahoma? Wilson: It’s a blessing. We’ve grown up playing ball with each other and it’s exciting to know where we are and where we expect to finish. 44

Ford: We can’t think we’re the best, we’ve got VYPEOK.COM

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Ford: The dribbledrive and taking my opponent to the hole, drawing a foul and going to the free throw line.

Mims: My court vision. I can see the whole floor and that allows me to make an assist as well as go score. VYPE: How much does having two other D-I players on the floor with you strengthen your self-confidence? Wilson: We know each other as well as we know ourselves and it’s a boost to realize we can do so many things others teams can’t.

Ford: We know our strengths and our weakness but when you put it all together it looks like strength on the court.

Mims: We have no doubts in each other and together with the rest of our team too we can go get this championship. VYPE: There’s only one ball and three players capable of doing great things every time you touch the ball. How do you maintain balance between the three of you?

Wilson: We trust each other and mix our talents in unity and do whatever I can to make our team better. Ford: Aaliyah and I are big enough we can play anywhere and with Trena taking the ball on the bounce, there’s plenty of chances for all three of us. We’re also confident enough with each other to challenge one another to be better. Mims: I’m the point guard so I really like sharing the points with Aaliyah and Jada. When

I make the pass, I’m 100% positive they’re going to make their shot and help our team win. VYPE: Where does recruiting and college basketball scholarship offers figure into this season’s game plan?

Wilson: I’ve had 30-plus offers and have narrowed my choices to Rutgers, LSU, Kansas, Arkansas, Baylor or Missouri. Making a decision is getting harder the longer it goes. I’m praying I can make my choice by early signing date, I just don’t know right now. Ford: I’m glad to have the stress in the rear view mirror. I made my verbal commitment to Arkansas State this summer.

Mims: At first it was kind of nerve wrecking but now I realize that I’ve got to keep working toward the goal of playing in college so more offers will come. But first things first, we want to win a ring this year.

VYPE: After finishing in the semi-finals two years ago and then walking off the floor as runner-up last season, how does that change your approach to 2015? Wilson: I refuse to graduate without a state championship and our team has been increasing our discipline and focus on the little things to make sure we get the job done. Ford: The memory of watching another team carry off our trophy last year is something I’ve never forgot and it’s made us all work harder to be sure we get the gold ball this time.

Mims: When I walk in the gym everyday it’s like a flash back in time. We deserve the gold ball this year and whatever it takes we’re going to do it to make sure we bring home the trophy that says state champions. VYPE: Muskogee returns all but one starter with a roster of additional experience and talent on the bench again this year. That said, what is the single most important thing necessary in order for the Lady Roughers to win the Class 6A state championship?

Wilson: It’s a combination of things but discipline and knowing we have each other’s back. Every player on the floor is keyed in 100% in order to have the chemistry needed to change last year’s silver into gold this time around. Ford: To focus on the game plan, trust each other on both ends of the court, rebound and make free throws.

Mims: We know what we’ve got to do to win. We were there before now we’ve got to go get what’s ours. Play like we know how to play and leave no doubt.

2016

ALL-NEW YXZ1000R

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Tradition and Champions Sequoyah Tahlequah

Tyon, a proven shot blocker with added speed. One of seven juniors returning to the court in 2015 with a gold medal hanging around their neck, Tyon averaged 5.4 points and 4.8 rebounds per contest. The leader of this year’s squad will be 5-7 senior guard Jakkie Wright, whose hard nose style of play creates never ending energy to Callison’s up-tempo styled game plan. Wright recorded 3.8 assists and two steals while adding 5-plus points per game in the Lady Indians run to the Class 3A championship.

Tradition and Champions…two words that go hand in hand when it comes to sports and especially when spoken in reference to Sequoyah Tahlequah Indians basketball. Since the start of the 21st century, fans of the Indians have been making reservations in Oklahoma City a year in advance in order to be courtside whenever the Indians and Lady Indians play at the Big House and the Class 3A state basketball tournaments. The girls’ program owns four state champion gold ball trophies during the past 15 years including the Class 3A title in 2015 plus one state runner-up finish. The boys’ team won its only championship in 2003 but also have three additional state finals finishes as well as reaching the semifinals six times. And in the true spirit of the Cherokee nation, the expectations for continued success remain loud and proud with plans for the rally cry just before tipoff on Saturday at the State Fairgrounds

Cenia Hayes 46

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Arena in March.

The Lady Indians of coach Larry Callison finished last year in championship fashion and return a strong group of talented players giving cause for expecting a backto-back state champion results similar to Sequoyah’s three-peat state title effort in 2005-2006-2007. Leading the way this year will be state tournament MVP and VYPE Top 100 choice Cenia Hayes, who totaled 14 points per game while averaging four steals and three assists during her sophomore campaign. “I feel like we can be as good as last year but in a different way,” said Callison. “This year’s lineup will be much quicker and we have better shooters and more depth on the roster.” Hayes, a 5-9 junior, is just as productive with her passing talents as she is a scorer. Posing an intimidating presence in the paint will be 5-9 junior center Kymber

Jakkie Wright

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Coach Jay Herrin’s roster will once again push the pace of play by combining quickness and speed plus overall more size to add to the depth of the lineup. Three-year veterans including 6-2 junior forward Elan Eagle and 5-9 senior guard Kyle Sanders return to hardwood along with Tyeus Daugherty, Hunter Soap, Jack Ragsdale and Tahj Davis forming a group that are determined to once again play on Saturday at the Big House.

“Elan and Tyeus can really score and Kyle is our do-it-all team leader,” said Herrin. “We’ve got a good mix of veteran players and talented newcomers that will enable us to get out and pressure defensively in the full court. We still haven’t forgot that one point loss in the first round last year and the kids are determined to erase that memory with something special this season.” The polls in Class 3A will no doubt once again include both teams from Sequoyah Tahlequah. And, when history repeats itself in March, the Lady Indians and Indians will be poised for their own “shining moment” of success.

Kyle Sanders

Tyeus Daugherty

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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Dreams of Gold

Preston Pirates Preston’s Girls and Boys Ready to Make the Exchange lineup led by VYPE Top 100 choice Ki-Essence Shields, a 6-0 junior forward, joining 5-11 senior forward Armahni Shields and 6-0 sophomore Marian Lewis on the front line. Preston’s guard play will again feature the cat-quick skills of three 5-7 seniors Audriona Fonteno, Jordan Ivey and Madisyn McFalls.

Shields averaged a double-double effort last year totaling 22.6 points and 11.6 rebounds while Fonteno chipped in double digits with 10.7 points per game.

Jordan Ivey When the Preston school buses returned home from the Class 2A state basketball tournament last March, the Pirates walked into the gymnasium and placed a pair of silver ball trophies on the counter. In the months that have followed, the girls and boys basketball teams have set their sights of returning to the Big House with expectations to exchange silver for gold. At today’s market prices, silver sells for $20 per ounce while an ounce of gold trades for $1,320. With that in mind, the Pirates appear ready to sail their ships to the destination where they can make the trade and bring home twin GOLD ball trophies just like Preston accomplished in the 2009 basketball season.

The Lady Pirates will be in search of the school’s 8th girls basketball championship trophy as all five starters return with three time state tournament and state runner-up experience from the past two years. Size will be a plus for coach Jeff Weedn’s

Toby Goodman 48

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WINTER 2014-2015

Ki-Essence Shields

The tradition of the boys program is well documented, including nine state tournament appearances in recent years and five championship seasons. Like the girls, the Pirates lineup in 2015 is also loaded with proven performers as coach Dirk Walden’s roster return a pair of Class 2A State All-Tourney selections in 6-5 junior Koby Goodman and 6-1 senior Toland Knox. Goodman, a VYPE Top 100 choice, averaged 18.3 points and 8.0 rebounds on the front line while 6-0 senior guard Jadon Huffman, who averaged 14.3 points and 4.1 assists will again be joined by 6-3 senior Zac Pinkston, Knox along with Kameron Mayfield and Trevor Talton in the Pirates rotation of guards.

Basketball is the sport of choice at Preston and their favorite place to play is the hardwood court at the Big House on Saturdays in March. And with the experience and talents that will wear the orange and black this year, there’s no reason not to expect Preston to repeat history and return from the Fairground Arena to deliver twin trophies of gold and the Class 2A state championships.

Kameron Mayfield

Tolan Knox

Armahni Shields

Zac Pinkston

Northwest OK

What You Need To Know WOODWARD JUMPING TO 5A After spending the last few years in Class 4A the Woodward Boomers are moving to 5A this year. Both the boys and girls teams have players in the VYPE Top 100 in Garrett Owen and ORU commit Hillary Hurst which should help ease the transition for both squads. Overall head girls coach Kinzie Didier said her team is excited and optimistic about the move.

Cody Mathews TWO GRAND Seiling Wildcats senior Bowan Nyberg has been a prolific scorer his entire high school career. Currently he sits at 1,487 points in his career which is more than impressive. Things could get even more special if Nyberg plays in 25 games as he did last year and averages 21 points per game he will crack 2,000 points for his career and join some really rarified air. Last year Nyberg averaged 18.2 points per game so 21 a game is well in his wheelhouse.

“We are looking forward to facing different opponents come postseason play. We know we will have to make some adjustments as far as speed and pressure on both ends of the floor,” Didier said. “We feel as if we get better throughout the course of the regular season we can make a splash in the postseason. Getting to Tulsa is the goal, but we must gain momentum through the journey of the regular season.” SWEEP IN STORE?

The Pond Creek-Hunter boys and girls teams both have a great chance to make a deep postseason run and with a couple breaks in their favor could easily sweep Class A with both teams winning gold balls in March. We have the girls ranked No. 2 and the boys ranked No. 4 in our preseason rankings and both teams have VYPE Top 100 players in Tiarra Davis and Cole Jones. There are plenty of other talented teams in Class A but both of these teams should make a lot of noise in the postseason.

THREE-PEAT

Can the Alva girls win their third gold ball in a row this year? In 2014 the Lady Bugs won the Class 3A title beating Adair in the title tilt. Last season they dropped to 2A and beat Preston in the finals. This year it’s back up to 3A but we do have them ranked No. 2 in our preseason rankings and they were the only team other than defending 3A champs Sequoyah Tahlequah to receive a first place vote. There are some other questions left to be answered about this team including how do they come together under new head coach Dusty Horn and how do they fare after replacing four senior starters who graduated in May. FORGAN’S FAMILIAR FACE

The Forgan boys have won three of the last five Class B state titles and played for the title last year but fell to Ft. Cobb-Broxton. With Ft. Cobb moving up to Class A and another semifinal team from last year Lookeba-Sickles also moving up, the Bulldogs have to be one of the favorites to play for gold again this year. We have them ranked No. 2 this year behind Red Oak who landed a big transfer this offseason with Brad Davis but don’t expect head coach Todd Kerr and his boys to lay down for anybody. VYPEOK.COM

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Whitney Randall

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Southwest OK

What You Need To Know gold ball; teams like Edison, Carl Albert, Ardmore, Bishop McGuinness and Memorial all have solid squads. CAN THE ELGIN GIRLS RELOAD?

The Lady Owls have been to the state tournament in each of the last two years but the team was hit hard by graduation last year. Three starters graduated out of the program in May, including current Oklahoma State Cowgirl Jentry Holt. The cupboard isn’t entirely bare however, with players like Ava Battese and Emily Poindexter back in the fold. State tournament experience is valuable but with talented teams like Cache and Plainview likely appearing in Elgin’s postseason picture it will be interesting to see this story develop. SHHHHH..........

Ava Battese MOVING ON UP Last season’s Class B boys state champion Ft. Cobb and Class B boys semifinalist Lookeba-Sickles both move up to Class A this year. The move isn’t affecting how we see the Ft. Cobb boys as they are ranked No. 1 in our preseason rankings. Lookeba’s boys are also ranked highly coming in at No. 10. The move could actually mean more for the girls teams from both schools with Ft. Cobb’s girls team coming off a trip to the Class B semifinals while just barely cracking the top 20 this year. Meanwhile the Lookeba girls, who were 10-18 last year, will most likely deal with the struggles that normally come from jumping up a class.

Don’t say we didn’t warn you because the Plainview Lady Indians may be the best kept secret in Class 4A. Sure we have them at No. 6 in our preseason rankings but you could make a solid case for ranking them in the top two or three. Players like Megan Shelton and Rebecca Wright will keep opposing coaches up at night and let’s not forget this team went 25-4 last season. Good team that will only get better as the season goes along.

HEADED TO THE ‘SHIP?

The Anadarko girls have played in the Class 4A state championship game in four of the last five years, and each of the last two. The Lady Warriors won the title in 2012 and were runner-up in both 2014 and 2015. No doubt head coach Jeff Zinn has a roster capable of making another deep postseason run led by VYPE Top 100 selection Aliyah White. Can the Lady Warriors once again play for gold this year? Only time will tell, but history shows you would be wise to bet on the Lady Warriors. IKE AGAIN?

Last season the Eisenhower Eagles won their first state championship in history when they upset Carl Albert in the finals, winning 43-41. The Eagles return two starters from last year’s team including VYPE Top 100 player Darius Roy who averaged 16 points per game last season. It’s because of players like Roy that we have the Eagles ranked No. 1 in the preseason rankings but it won’t be an easy road back to the 52

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Greyden Steinmetz

North Oklahoma

Getting to Know…

Three basketball players from around the North region participated in a fun Q&A with VYPE. BRAYDEN BAIRD – PERRY BRIANNA HOBBS – PERKINS-TRYON COLTYN HARRILL – NEWKIRK

VYPE: When you ride a roller coaster, do you prefer sitting up front or toward the back? Baird: When I ride a roller coaster, I prefer to ride in the front. I enjoy being able to see everything in front of me. It’s more exciting! Hobbs: When I ride roller coasters I like to sit up front, because I want to be able to see what’s coming and brace myself for it. Harrill: Uhh, neither, they scare me…

VYPE: Who is the funniest person on your team?

stop me…

VYPE: Do your teammates have any nicknames for you? Where did it originate? Baird: My nickname on the basketball team is BB and B. My older brother graduated the year before I became a freshman. The seniors my freshman year started calling me Baby Baird because I was the youngest Baird kid. Eventually, Coach Hight and the rest of the team started calling me BB, which means Baby Baird. Or they call me B for short. VYPE: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Hobbs: In 10 years hopefully I would have graduated with a doctorate in Criminal Justice or Forensic science, and working for the BAU, or being a FBI agent.

Baird: The funniest person on our team is probably Trey Layne. I never can tell when he’s being serious. He’s always laughing about something or playing a prank. He’s pretty funny.

Hobbs: The funniest people on my team are Kycen Dunivan and Jaci Armstrong. I choose these two because they are constantly picking on each other and making everyone laugh.

Harrill: That’s a hard question since we have a pretty witty team, but if I had to choose one, it would be Emily Elliot for sure! VYPE: If you could be a master of any craft/sport/ skill, which would choose and why?

Baird: If I could be a master at anything it would have to be being a master at golf. Golf can be a frustrating sport and if I could somehow figure it all out that would be pretty awesome. Hobbs: If I could master anything it would probably have to be analyzing blood splatter. Harrill: Dancing, since the only move I have is the worm and apparently I have two left feet.

VYPE: What is the funniest thing you’ve witnessed during a basketball game? Harrill: I didn’t witness it, but I had it happen to me. The girl guarding me pulled my pants down trying to

Brayden Baird BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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HOLLAND HALL

DUTCH Photos By Sara Carter

Holland Hall Dutch Girls Head Coach: Crystal Lawson Assistant Coaches: Tag Gross, Mark Cyrus, Tia Magee 2014-2015 Record: 16-10

Coach Crystal Lawson and the Holland Hall Dutch are hoping their last season in the Southwest Preparatory Conference ends with a bang, an SPC Championship trophy to put in the case. “I believe we can make a run for the championship with the experience and depth that we have this year,” said Lawson. The Dutch will have three strong senior leaders to lean on as well as numerous underclassmen that should make an impact this year. The seniors leading the way will be All-Conference performer Hagan Gross, Jessica Atwell and Callie Jackson. Gross, a 5’9” Forward averaged

Hagan Gross

HURRICANE ELITE

WINTER 2014-2015

six points a game along with six rebounds. Atwell is the leading retuning scorer; averaging nine points a game and gathering four rebounds. Junior, Annie Wise returns as a starting guard with great experience and confidence. Kennedy Cox, another junior, has great range and can score from about anywhere on the court. Other juniors that have varsity experience that will be looked upon to make significant contributions are Morgan Nall and Regan Beyers. Freshman Gabby Gregory, a 5-10 forward will be a player to keep an eye on. She was a dominant player as an eighth grader and should make an immediate impact at the varsity level. She is a strong player with great basketball knowledge that can play any position on the court. Lawson said, “After a third place finish and a runner-up finish in the SPC, this senior group would love to go out on top their last year and the school’s last year in the conference.” Holland Hall Schedule Boys and Girls Varsity (Unless otherwise noted) 12-1-15 vs.OKC Storm North 12-4-15 at Metro Christian 12-5-15 vs. Webster 12-10/12-12-15 Bishop Kelley Tournament (Boys) 12-10/12-12-15 Vinita Tournament (Girls) 12-18-15 at Cascia Hall 12-29/12-31-15 Siloam Springs Tournament 1-7/1-9-16 Stroud Tournament 1-15-16 at Oakridge 1-16-16 at Episcopal of Dallas 1-22-16 vs. FWCD 1-23-16 vs. St. Marks (Boys) 1-23-16 vs. Hockaday (Girls) 1-26-16 vs. Cascia Hall 1-29-16 at Trinity Valley 1-30-16 at Greenhill 2-2-16 vs. Casady 2-5-16 vs. All Saints 2-6-16 vs. Cistercian (Boys)

CJ Thompson 2-11-16 - SPC Tournament Houston

Holland Hall Dutch Boys Head Coach Brandon Maddux Assistant Coaches: Nick Bunting, Denoto Wilson 2014-2015 Record 18-9

The Dutch will be a young and inexperienced team this year without a lot of size, but coach Brandon Maddux feels as if they have some good players coming back and hopes that their younger players will develop and gain confidence quickly. Leading the way this season will be a trio of players. Nathan Stolper (5-9 G Jr.) who averaged 4.2 points per game last season, 1.7 assists and 2.5 rebounds. CJ Thompson (6-0 G Jr.) will be coming back with a 6.3 points per game average along with 2.4 assists and 3.9 rebounds. Also keep an eye on Jaycson Bereal, (6-5 G So.) who leads returning players with 4.5 rebounds per game and 4.3 points.

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CLASS 6A CLASS 6A GIRLS RANKINGS

1. Muskogee 2. Broken Arrow 3. Choctaw 4. Sapulpa 5. Edmond Santa Fe 6. Westmoore 7. Midwest City 8. PC West 9. Booker T. Washington 10. Owasso 11. Edmond Memorial 12. Southmoore 13. Deer Creek 14. Sand Springs 15. Bixby 16. PC North 17. Stillwater 18. Norman North 19. Bartlesville 20. Yukon

PRESEASON RANKINGS

CLASS 6A BOYS RANKINGS

1. Mustang 2. Union 3. Norman North 4. Edmond Memorial 5. PC West 6. Jenks 7. Booker T. Washington 8. Midwest City 9. Edmond Santa Fe 10. Owasso 11. Broken Arrow 12. Edmond North 13. Putnam City 14. Deer Creek 15. Sand Springs 16. Bartlesville 17. Muskogee 18. Westmoore 19. Bishop McGuinness 20. Southmoore

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6A PRESEASON ALL - VYPE 58

CLASS 6A PRESEASON TEAM 1ST TEAM BOYS

Trae Young – Norman North Jakolby Long – Mustang Kristian Doolittle – Edmond Memorial RJ Fuqua – Booker T. Washington Ethan Chargois – Union Tre Evans – Edmond North 2ND TEAM BOYS

Curtis Haywood – Mustang Adrian Rodriguez - Union TJ Washington – Jenks Cameron Martin – Norman North Marquis Johnson – Putnam City West Kinzer Lambert – Owasso

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Aaliyah Wilson

HONORABLE MENTION 1ST TEAM GIRLS

Elyjah Clark – Deer Creek Alex Ogunseye – Sapulpa Tavian Davis – Muskogee Micah Speight – Putnam City North Parker Jennings – Bixby Kristoff Hayden – Edmond Santa Fe Payton Moore – Edmond Memorial

Brice Calip – Sapulpa Aaliyah Wilson – Muskogee Areanna Combs – Putnam City West Ana Llanusa – Choctaw Chelsea Dungee – Sapulpa Chinna Fair – Midwest City 2ND TEAM GIRLS

Mya Bhinhar – Owasso Jo’Nah Johnson – Edmond Santa Fe Addy Richards – Bixby Jada Ford – Muskogee Alexis Gaulden – Broken Arrow Asia Davis – Midwest City HONORABLE MENTION

RJ Fuqua |

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Dylan Fix – Stillwater Sydney Manning – Deer Creek Sydney Stout – Bixby Sydney Pennington – Sand Springs Rachel Skalnik – Owasso Trena Mims – Muskogee Aysia Evans – Broken Arrow

Class 6A Watchlist Players to Watch

GIRLS Kierra McGee – Union Head coach Jamie Hill is excited about this season thanks in part to the players returning to the lineup. One standout player is junior Kierra McGee. The 5-foot-7 guard is effective on both ends of the floor helping Union push the pace and play a smothering style of defense. Kylee Vestal – Enid

Standing 5-foot-9 Vestal is the type of rangy point guard that can be extremely tough to guard. Last season she averaged 5.3 points and 4.8 assists per game along with pulling down 3.6 rebounds per game. Look for Vestal to make some major noise this year in her senior campaign. Ashley Gomez – Westmoore

The Central Oklahoma Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year Ashley Gomez returns for her senior season with a ton a talent surrounding her. Gomez averaged 16.9 points per game with 4.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists last season making the senior guard one tough cookie on the court. Gomez is known for her fierce competitiveness, while displaying tremendous sportsmanship. BOYS

Isaac Leggins – Putnam City West

The other half of a dynamic duo at Putnam City West, Isaac Leggins has come into his own with his play at the forward position. At 6-foot-4 Leggins is athletic enough to move with the ball and battle in the paint. Leggins will help carry the load for the Patriots as head coach Lenny Bert looks to take this team deep in the state tournament.

Green averaged 9.7 points and 4.5 assists per game, the most for any returning player this season. Green is expected to assume the leadership role for the young Pioneers, and coach Michael Davis will often lean on him to create for the offense. Keondre Davis – Muskogee

The 6-foot-6, 275 pound inside threat for the Muskogee Roughers presents a variety of challenges for opponents. “Bruiser” makes good use of his physical size and strength on the blocks and boards but also has the range to score from the perimeter including a soft-touch 3-point shot. While playing ast year as a sophomore on a senior laden roster, Davis averaged 6.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per contest.

Conner Larson – Ponca City

Senior Conner Larson will lead the Ponca City offense this season. Larson, who is also the quarterback of the football team, averaged 11.1 points per game last year, which is the most on the team coming into this season. Larson also averaged 2.3 rebounds per game, and notched 24 steals last season. Coach Alan Hibler said the six-foot guard has the ability to score in bunches, and the team will sometimes rely on him to get them some buckets. Jake Green – Stillwater

Senior Jake Green has the most experience of any player coming back for Pioneers in 2015. The undersized guard has the ability to make plays at the rim, with his jump shot and with his passing ability. Last season,

Deion Smith – Enid The 6-foot senior guard is a player that will be relied on heavily by new head coach Kyle Hilterbran as the Plainsmen try to get back on track this season. Smith also plays football for the Plainsmen and will bring a gridiron-like mentality to the hardwood.

Conner Larson

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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Class 6A Notes

What you need to know

SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR LADY ROUGHERS After reaching the state semifinals in 2013 and then losing in overtime in the Class 6A championship last year, the Lady Roughers stand poised to complete “unfinished business” this season. With four starters returning including a trio of Division I level players (Wilson, Ford, Mims) joining proven performers off the bench to set the stage for a championship run. Leigh Westbrook also returns to the starting unit while coach Doyle Rowland’s squad plays with athleticism and pressure with Zomaree McNac, Brandi Nash and Fort Gibson transfer Aaliyah Daily-Lee providing power in the blocks while Taylor Osborn, Dia Brown and Chrisalee Patterson bring added talent of the bench. Is this the year that Muskogee sheds the tag as the “best team never to win a championship”?

The favorite in Class 6A may be the Mustang Broncos, but Norman North has a roster loaded with talent and head coach Bryan Merritt believes a focus on the defensive end of the floor could be the difference for the Timberwolves this season. “We have a chance to be a really good team if we come together and make a commitment to the defensive end of the floor,” said Merritt. With players like Trae Young, Marcus Dickinson Jr., and Yukon transfer Cameron Martin the Timberwolves on paper have the lineup to beat anyone on any given night. The key may be the 6-foot-6 forward Winston Nelson who averaged nearly four rebounds a game last season.

THE FIX IS IN

Dylan Fix is a standout guard for coach Mark Harris and the Stillwater Lady Pioneers. Last season, she averaged 18 points for Stillwater. Fix is a VYPE Top 100 basketball player, and has the potential to play basketball at the Division I level. This season, Fix has the chance to pretty much rewrite the history books at Stillwater. Fix set the single season record for three pointers made in a season at Stillwater last year, with more than 80 three pointers made. The year before, Fix hit around 60 three pointers. If Fix keeps the pace she is on, she will cruise past the career record. Fix can shoot the lights out, and is arguably the best shooter in the state. NORMAN NORTH FOCUSED ON DEFENSE 60

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Dylan Fix

NEW ERA BEGINS IN ENID

Kyle Hilterbran was an assistant for the Enid Plainsmen last season but this year assumes the role of head coach. Hilterbran takes over for Ryan Wilkinson, who was at Enid for four seasons and compiled a 27-67 record including a 7-17 mark last year. While on the outside looking in it may look like Hilterbran is fighting an uphill battle, on the inside of the program the coach couldn’t be more excited for the opportunity. “I’m looking forward to an exciting year and a new start for Plainsmen basketball,” Hilterbran said.

Hilterbran’s first season as head coach will begin Dec. 1 with a game at Bishop McGuinness with the first home game in his tenure coming on Dec. 18 when the Plainsmen host the Putnam City North Panthers.

Avery Ogle Edmond Memorial High School How long have you been involved with FCA? I have been involved with FCA since sixth grade. Who influenced you? A coach at my middle school, Coach Leake, started it for Cimaron middle school students. It caught on pretty quickly and he continued it as he moved to the high school. If it wasn’t for him and his impact I don’t think I would’ve known what FCA even was. How has FCA made an impact in your life on and off the field? FCA has reminded me that I am not alone as a Christian athlete. It always reminds me that wherever you are, on the court or on the field, that we are called to be examples of Christ. How have your beliefs helped you as an athlete? My beliefs keep me strong as a basketball player. They keep me encouraged and inspired even in the midst of adversity. They have impacted the way I treat my teammates and my opponents. They have helped me see that there is much more to life than basketball. What is your favoriate Bible verse and why? Jeremiah 29:11, This verse keeps me motivated and focused on the plans the lord has for me and helps me remember to trust him in my day to day life. BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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CLASS 5A CLASS 5A GIRLS RANKINGS

1. Collinsville 2. Piedmont 3. East Central 4. Woodward 5. Edison 6. Claremore 7. Guthrie 8. Ardmore 9. Shawnee 10. Carl Albert 11. Grove 12. Altus 13. Memorial 14. Skiatook 15. El Reno 16. Lawton Ike 17. Del City 18. Pryor 19. McAlester 20. Northwest Classen

PRESEASON RANKINGS CLASS 5A BOYS RANKINGS

1. Lawton Ike 2. Memorial 3. Coweta 4. Carl Albert 5. Ardmore 6. Edison 7. Pryor 8. El Reno 9. Bishop McGuinness 10. Southeast 11. East Central 12. Shawnee 13. Collinsville 14. McAlester 15. Bishop Kelley 16. Skiatook 17. Lawton Mac 18. Woodward 19. Del City 20. Northwest Classen

5A PRESEASON ALL - VYPE 64

CLASS 5A PRESEASON TEAM 1ST TEAM BOYS

Dashawn McDowell – Southeast Caleb Nero – Memorial Marvin Johnson – Ardmore Garrett Owen – Woodward Darius Roy – Eisenhower Todd Dawkins – McAlester 2ND TEAM BOYS

Tylor Arnold – Pryor Stefone Richardson – Edison Mason Harrell – Carl Albert Burke Putnam – East Central Jake Ross – Coweta Trey Hopkins – Carl Albert

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Hillary Hurst

HONORABLE MENTION 1ST TEAM GIRLS

Jake Surrite – Skiatook Chris Nimsey – Noble Jackson Winrow – Shawnee Collin Klingensmith – Duncan Caleb Ranford – Glenpool Derek Guest – Memorial Seth Boomer – Collinsville

Mallory Vaughn – Collinsville Hillary Hurst – Woodward Mikayla Shulanberger – Skiatook Micayla Haynes – Guthrie J’Sades Ainsworth – Ardmore Mariah Watson – Altus 2ND TEAM GIRLS

Maddie Sperle – Piedmont Angel Williams – Edison Hunter Gilstrap – Pryor Lauren Chancellor – Claremore Malorie Smith – Glenpool Aaliyah Allison – Guthrie HONORABLE MENTION

Caleb Nero |

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Brittany Kickapoo – Collinsville Abby Nagode – Bishop Kelley Falon Howell – Duncan Lindsay Wade – Tahlequah Cierra Taylor – Durant Monique Trimble – Shawnee

Class 5A Watchlist Players to Watch

GIRLS

Garza’s Lady Highlanders squad this season. BOYS

Leah Colon – Bishop Kelley Senior Leah Colon is described by coach Jade Allison as a leader on and off the floor. Averaging 11 points per game and 6.0 rebounds Colon is becoming the go-to player on the offensive end, but has improved her defense at forward. Colon plays with heart and intelligence. Carrying a 4.0 grade point average, she may be the smartest player on the floor on any given night. Alyissa Harry – Pryor

Junior Alyissa Harry made great strides as a sophomore in 2014-2015, averaging 8.1 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. With new coach Donnie Martin stepping in and implementing a new system, Harry should expect her role to increase in 2015-2016. Harry will be expected to make major contributions on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. She will compliment stand out guards Hunter Gilstrap and Kelsey Kerns.

Treyvon Hopkins – Carl Albert

Only a sophomore Hopkins has shown flashes of brilliance on the court. He’s an explosive player at 6-foot-2 from the guard position. Last season he averaged 11.2 points per game and 4.5 rebounds. For the season he recorded 22 steals on the defensive end of the floor. Hopkins joins fellow sophomore Mason Harrell as a tandem to watch this season. Don Tray Wilkerson - Skiatook

Lindsay Wade – Tahlequah

Since first stepping into the Lady Tigers’ lineup as a freshman, the impact of Wade has been consistent averaging double digit scoring as well as directing the offense at the point guard spot. Last year, Wade delivered 10.5 points per game while playing with confidence on either end of the floor and earning Metro Lakes All-Conference honors.

Nathan Clark – Duncan

This senior forward has all the measurables. He’s 6-foot-6 and can really shoot the rock.

Delaney Nix – McAlester

After bursting onto the court in game-changing fashion last year, Nix returns to energize McAlester’s winning ways this season. After taking the reins as the starting guard, last year’s freshman sensation averaged 14.0 points per contest as well as gaining All-Tournament selection in all three regular season tournaments in 2014-2015. With an ability to score from the perimeter as well as on the dribble-drive, Nix will once again be called upon to lead the rally cry this year. Lauren Henry – Lawton MacArthur

As a sophomore last year, Henry, a 5-foot-9 forward, averaged eight points and three rebounds per game but then tore her ACL in January. Already cleared to play, expect Henry to be a key contributor for head coach Danny

Standing at six-feet and two and a half inches, senior Don Tray Wilkerson is preparing to improve on his impressive numbers from last season. Wilkerson averaged 17 points, four rebounds and four assists last season alongside guard Jake Surritte. Those two, along with nine other seniors, have been playing basketball together since elementary school. Now, as a high school senior, Wilkerson is preparing to have his best season yet.

Treyvon Hopkins

Last season Clark averaged seven points a game to go along with his 6.5 rebounds per game all while shooting 56 percent from the field. Expect all of those numbers to go up this year.

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Class 5A Notes

What you need to know

Break Out the Brooms? Last season both the Ardmore girls and Ardmore boys teams made it to the Class 5state tournament, one of three schools with teams in both fields. This season both teams will have some key returners. The girls team brings back four starters, along with their top player off the bench from a year ago. Meanwhile while the boys team brings back their leading scorer and rebounder in VYPE Top 100 selection Marvin Johnson. A player that averaged over 20 points last year and nearly 10 rebounds Johnson is already being recruited by teams like Texas, Creighton and the University of Tulsa among others. No school has ever swept Class 5A and won the gold ball in both girls and boys basketball but with talented rosters and valuable state tournament experience on both sides Ardmore has as good of a chance as anybody to make history and stock their trophy case with some serious hardware. Bobby Allison Leading the Charge

Tulsa Memorial head coach Bobby Allison led his team to the state semifinals last season falling just short of a bid for Memorial’s third straight title. This season the team returns several key players to the court, but coach Allison is looking for someone to become a leader. “We return 10 letterman and four players that started off last year’s team. If leadership continues to develop and roles on this team are accepted, great things can happen for this team. This group expects to be back in the state tournament,” said Allison. Confidence is not the question mark surrounding the Chargers. Junior Caleb Nero and seniors Derek Guest and Alante Carson are capable of providing that much needed leadership. Kobe Rose returns after suffering a broken foot last season and DI football prospect Isiah Thomas will play power forward. Martin/Day: New Era for Tiger Basketball

Both the boys and girls basketball programs at Pryor High School will start the 2015-2016 season with new coaches at the helm. Donnie Martin takes over the girls program after they went 8-17 last season. The Lady Tigers VYPEOK.COM

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

lose only one starter coming into this season, and Martin is introducing a new system to try to revitalize the program. Before taking over at Pryor, Martin was the coach at Inola. Martin spent time as the boys’ coach at Blanchard before his stint at Inola.

On the boys’ side, David Day comes to town after a brief stint at Cushing. Before Cushing, Day spent time at Prague and Mannford. Day is taking over a Pryor team that went 1711 in 2014-2015 and was a state tournament team. Day will have a chance to make a big splash this season, and he hopes to guide the Tigers back to the state tournament. The Herd is Coming

McAlester will pose inside-outside scoring threats. With 6-foot-5 senior Todd Dawkins, who averaged 26 points plus six rebounds, joining an athletic 6-foot8 junior Justin Whatley the Black and Gold have ability to finish at the rim as well as speed up the tempo behind the play of a quartet of cat-quick guards including Jett Wood, Ryan Kelly, Vinny Williams and Rashad Clark.

Marvin Johnson

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CLASS 4A CLASS 4A GIRLS RANKINGS

1. Anadarko 2. Newcastle 3. Harrah 4. Fort Gibson 5. Chickasha 6. Hilldale 7. Plainview 8. Vinita 9. Cache 10. Roland 11. Oologah 12. Victory Christian 13. Elgin 14. Broken Bow 15. Will Rogers 16. Classen SAS 17. Locust Grove 18. Berryhill 19. Bethany 20. Ada

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PRESEASON RANKINGS CLASS 4A BOYS RANKINGS

1. Tulsa Central 2. Harrah 3. McLain 4. Webster 5. Douglass 6. Harding Charter Prep 7. Anadarko 8. Locust Grove 9. Victory Christian 10. Chickasha 11. Tuttle 12. Kingfisher 13. Ft. Gibson 14. Stilwell 15. Cleveland 16. Catoosa 17. Mannford 18. Will Rogers 19. Mount St. Mary 20. Okmulgee

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4A PRESEASON ALL - VYPE 70

CLASS 4A PRESEASON TEAM 1ST TEAM BOYS

Elijah Landrum – Central Breyden DeSpain – Oologah Kellen Manek – Harrah Brady Manek – Harrah Kairee Cooks – Webster Carlos Coppage – Harding Charter Prep 2ND TEAM BOYS

Maverick Ball – Cleveland Jimmell Tate – Okmulgee Brantley Thompson – Tuttle Joshua Jacobs – McLain Andre Houze – Anadarko Brock Henderson – Chickasha

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Aliyah White

HONORABLE MENTION 1ST TEAM GIRLS

Bradon Jennings – Harrah Kyle Dortch – Fort Gibson Keats Calhoon – Victory Christian Rafael Galaviz – Cleveland Noah Garner – Mannford Wil Amos – Grove Gabe Simpson – Jay Mason Overstreet – Kingfisher Nikia Jones – Wagoner

Katie Mayo – Newcastle Aaliyah White – Anadarko Taylor Roberts – Classen SAS Eva Lewis – Will Rogers Carsyn Spurgeon – Vinita Dominique Golightly – Chickasha 2ND TEAM GIRLS

Brooklyn Judkins – Bethany Michaela Richbourg – Broken Bow Mikiah McDonald – Roland Katie Kirkhart – Hilldale Kaydee Banks – Bristow Aaliyah Endsley – Newcastle HONORABLE MENTION

Elijah Landrum |

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Shanna Visnieski – Harrah Sheradyn Houser – Locust Grove Kenzie Mize – Hilldale Raley Farquhar – Victory Christian Jamie Bonarens – Cache Megan Shelton – Plainview Kendall Fike – Byng Kabrie Edgmon – Ft. Gibson

Class 4A Watchlist Players to Watch

GIRLS

BOYS

Myka Mullin – John Marshall

Damon Phelps – Catoosa

A threat for a double-double on any given night, Mullin averaged over 12 points per game and 10 rebounds last season as a sophomore. She also shot 70 percent from the free-throw line and added 4.0 assists per contest. Mullin is described by coach Ebony Williams as an outstanding basketball player and a person of character. Look for the junior to make noise this season in Class 4A. Karlea Jones - Cushing

As a junior, Karlea Jones posted averages of 13.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.7 steals per game. Jones leads her team in three of those four categories coming into this year. Jones has the ability to put up big numbers, and she can score in bunches. Although she might be undersized, Jones is physical and can run with anybody. Expect a big year from Jones, as she leads Cushing throughout the season. Kaycie Glover – Fort Gibson

The third guard with the same last name to play for the Lady Tigers in recent years, the youngest Glover may be the most dangerous with the ball in her hands as well as forcing turnovers with extremely quick hands and feet. Glover, who averaged 5.3 points and 2.5 rebounds last season as a freshman as Fort Gibson reached the Class 4A semifinals, has a dead-eye three point shooting touch and the skill to attack and finish in the lane. Payton Taylor – Ada

A second year starter for the Cougars, Taylor is another player with a strong family tradition of championship ability in the success of Ada sports. The 5-foot-11 forward for coach Christie Jennings lineup plays averaged 8.5 points and 3.8 rebounds last season as a sophomore. Taylor’s ability to run the floor and score on the blocks as well as the perimeter is an added talent. Taylor’s competitive style of play adds to the Lady Cougars prowess defensively. Rebecca Wright – Plainview

Wright has the size that just gives opposing coaches nightmares. At 6-foot-1 Wright is a star forward for head coach Andy Bloodworth’s Lady Indians squad. Last year Wright averaged 13.9 points and 7.3 rebounds per game and could easily post multiple double-doubles this year.

The sophomore guard may be somewhat of an unknown to the rest of the state, but for teams in Class 4A, they have taken notice of the young guards play. Last season he averaged 13 points per game on a team that made it to the Area tournament. Coach Coons calls Phelps the epitome of what a high school student-athlete should be. Phelps and the Indians have worked hard this offseason and are ready to take on a tough schedule. Mason Fine - Locust Grove

Many folks know Mason Fine for his success as the Locust Grove quarterback. Many might not know that Fine is a talented player on the hardwood as well. Last season, Fine averaged 11.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.5 steals per game last season. Fine is a talented allaround player who can defend, pass and score when he needs to. Fine was the second leading scorer on a team that went 22-6 last season, and will look to continue to give coach Dusty Torrey solid production. Brandon Shumway – Chickasha

The old saying goes that big things come in small packages. That saying holds true again when talking about 5-foot-1 Chickasha guard Brandon Shumway. Last year Shumway averaged 10 points and seven assists per game and could easily be mentioned as one of the best floor generals in the state.

Kaycie Glover

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Class 4A Notes

What you need to know

Blue Collar Mentality for Central The Braves of Central High School won the state tournament last year after a two year hiatus. Defending that title in a tough Class 4A won’t be easy. Head coach Eli K. Brown III told VYPE Magazine his team is ready to compete and defend that title. “We only return four key players from last year’s championship team. Our guys still feel, as well as myself, that we have what we need to compete and return to the state tournament. It won’t be easy and we may start slow, but I think we will begin to gel around late January. This group has a blue collar mentality and I like that,” said Brown. Elijah Landrum returns to lead all scorers for the Braves, but look for Michael Harris, Dale Hall and Kobe Tiger to shore up the lineup and make Central a competitor again this year. Fort Gibson Lady Tigers Meeting Expectations

Tradition doesn’t graduate especially when it comes to the continued success of the girls and boys basketball teams at Fort Gibson. Coach Jerry Walker’s girls will be in search of a 12th straight state tournament appearance among a recent run of success that includes 7-time state finalist and three championships. A defense first minded lineup with a dead-eye shooting touch that’s without a single senior on the roster, the expectations remain focused on claiming gold next March.

Roden Building on Success at Mannford The Mannford girls basketball program will enter the 2015-2016 with a new coach at the helm. Bob Banfield, who coached for more than 40 years and the past four years at Mannford, stepped down after the season ended. Colin Roden enters the mix and will step in to lead a Mannford team that went 15-10 in Banfield’s last year. Banfield led Mannford to their first winning season in the last seven years, and Roden hopes to build on that success. The boys’ team at Mannford saw incredible success last year under the direction of Bob Banfield’s son, Mike Banfield. The Pirates went 25-3 and came up just short of reaching the state tournament. The year before, Banfield led Mannford to the semifinals before fallings. Banfield will be entering his fifth season as the head coach at Mannford.

“We’re a pretty young team but it’s a group that is extremely competitive and athletic,” said Walker. “And, don’t tell this group of girls they can’t do something unless you want them to prove you wrong.” Stephens Cooking Again?

Clay Stephens is responsible for a lot of wins, most notably at Frontier, where he won three state championships. After a short stint in Stillwater as the head coach of the Lady Pioneers, Stephens became the head coach at Weatherford last year and guided the Lady Eagles to an 11-15 overall record, and that was after the Lady Eagles began the year 0-6. Last year’s run ended at the regional tournament with a loss to Elk City but did include big wins over Classen, John Marshall, and Woodward.

With another year under Stephens and his run-and-gun offense that is always triggered by his teams’ excellent defensive play expect the Lady Eagles to turn some heads this year in Class 4A and potentially make a deep playoff run that could lead to the area tournament or even the Big House if things break the right way. 72

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Mike Harris

THESE LIONS CAN ROAR!!! The 6-2 shooting guard for the Howe Lions, Gaven Brown was a driving force last season as Howe finished the year with a 23-7 record. Brown, a 2015-16 senior whose favorite player is Kobe Bryant, averaged 16.3 points per game last year averaging 43% form the field while grabbing 10.1 rebounds and dishing out 3.5 assists per contest. Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s career plans include a career in occupational safety.

As a point guard for the Keota Lions, Jace Welch recorded a doubledouble last season averaging 25.4 points and 11.9 rebounds per game. The 6-1senior enters his final season with 1,127 points and 585 rebounds for his career. Welch plans to pursue a career in Sports Medicine. Tote A Poke congratulates Gaven Brown and Jace Welch for being chosen to the VYPE Top 100 basketball team.

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CLASS 3A CLASS 3A GIRLS RANKINGS

1. Sequoyah Tahlequah 2. Alva 3. Chisholm 4. Washington 5. Adair 6. Millwood 7. Vian 8. Perkins-Tryon 9. Metro Christian 10. Bethel 11. Heritage Hall 12. Beggs 13. Davis 14. Kansas 15. Lincoln Christian 16. Verdigris 17. Eufaula 18. Comanche 19. Cascia Hall 20. Luther

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PRESEASON RANKINGS CLASS 3A BOYS RANKINGS

1. Heritage Hall 2. Centennial 3. Verdigris 4. Atoka 5. Sequoyah Tahlequah 6. Sperry 7. Marlow 8. Millwood 9. Adair 10. Spiro 11. Hennessey 12. Lincoln Christian 13. Lindsay 14. Idabel 15. Washington 16. Okemah 17. Kingston 18. Perkins-Tryon 19. OCS 20. Riverside

3A PRESEASON ALL - VYPE

CLASS 3A PRESEASON TEAM 1ST TEAM BOYS

Jeremiah Bozeman – Alva Brewster Peacock – Verdigris Logan Mullins – Sperry Bishop Coulter – Atoka Connor Karpe – Lindsay Braeden O’Dell – Marlow 2ND TEAM BOYS

Laef Payne – Verdigris Keyshawn Embery – Centennial Sayvon Milton – Heritage Hall Tyreke Johnson – Atoka Braden Ledford – Comanche Chandler Haley – Washington

Kelsey Johnson

HONORABLE MENTION 1ST TEAM GIRLS

Jace Pratt – Sperry Patrick Atkins – Centennial Elan Eagle – Sequoyah Tahlequah Grant Wynn – Lincoln Christian Carlos Rojo – Hennessey KJ Wells – Idabel Sky Lowe – Kingston Ira Blackbear – Beggs Zac Neely – Marietta

Jaden Hobbs – Alva Kelsey Johnson – Washington Morgan Meacham – Heritage Hall Erin Gray – Eufaula Keni Lippe – Adair Kearra Battenfield – Verdigris 2ND TEAM GIRLS

Genna Robinson – Bethel Kara Speer – Metro Christian Kyanne Beene – Chelsea McKenna Pulley – Newkirk Cenia Hayes – Sequoyah Tahlequah Brooklyn Chaffin – Metro Christian HONORABLE MENTION

Brewster Peacock

Raven Blackbear – Beggs Desiree Moon – Vian Nykiah Hines – Millwood Whitney Randall – Alva Katy Boyles – Community Christian Bailey Brown – Chisholm Breanna Burnett – Centennial Neely Noel – Antlers Carleigha Thompson – Spiro BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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Class 3A Watchlist Players to Watch

GIRLS

fall while setting a new stolen base record.

Shaelyn Ward – Lincoln Christian

Corrie Moore – Marlow

Senior Shaelyn Ward returns for her final year at Lincoln Christian. Her impact is certainly measurable on the court. She averaged 12.2 points, 5.0 rebounds and shot a field goal percentage of 42%. Her athleticism is apparent at the forward and post positions, but what she needs more credit for his her level of intelligence on the floor and in the classroom.

Moore is a 5-foot-6 guard for the Lady Outlaws that averaged 10 points, four rebounds and two assists per game last season as she continuously stuffed the stat sheet. With a team full of upperclassmen expect Moore to continue to be a player that makes an impact everywhere she goes on the floor.

Courtney Condit - Salina

BOYS

Courtney Condit enters her senior season at Salina after averaging 15.6 points, seven rebounds, two assists and 0.9 steals per game last year. Salina returns a solid core group of players, led by Condit. Condit leads all returning players in points, assists and rebounds per game for coach Mark Fraley. With the offense centering on Condit, expect her offensive numbers to see a boost.

O.C. Floyd – Jones

Last season Floyd was named to the AllConference team after averaging 10.2 points per game, 3.2 assists, 4.4 rebounds and 2.1 steals. The point guard was next to impossible to slow down once he turned up the juice. As a senior Floyd is expected to lead this Longhorn basketball team and he’s looking forward to the challenge.

Ericka Stevenson – Perkins-Tryon

Junior Ericka Stevenson had a breakout sophomore campaign, helping the Lady Demons post a 23-6 record last season. Stevenson is the leading scorer and rebounder returning to the team, after averaging 14.7 points and 7.2 rebounds per game last year. This season, younger teammates around her and a tougher schedule, Stevenson will be expected to boost her numbers. Jodie Hill – Heavener

Quickness and the ability to score from anywhere on the floor makes Jodie Hill tough to defend. The All-Conference MVP last year, the 5-6 guard for the Lady Wolves of coach Paul Moore is also a state champion sprinter/ hurdler and was a key figure in Heavener reaching the fastpitch state tournament this

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Dalton Vinson – Hennessey

Dalton with

Vinson

Only a sophomore, the 6-foot-5 Vinson has already made an impact at Hennessey for head coach Brady Page. As a freshman, Vinson averaged 7.9 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. With a year of varsity experience under his belt it would be easy to see Vinson post more than one double-double this year. Wesley McClendon - Comanche

A player that is will cause havoc for opposing defenses McClendon can score when he needs to but at an athletic 6-foot-3 he is also a force on the glass. Last year McClendon averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds per game and could easily see those numbers spike upwards this year.

Class 3A Notes

What you need to know

CENTENNIAL LADY BISON GOING UP-TEMPO The Lady Bison return two AllConference players to the lineup this season and head coach Jeff Fuller will use that talent and experience to the teams advantage. “We return six players from last year’s squad who started at one point during the season. Leading scorer Jeanna Dixon returns as well as Breeanna Burnett who will become a four year starter at point guard. The Lady Bison will be focused on trying to create depth to a solid nucleus of core players. This group of Lady Bison love to play up-tempo and if the younger players can develop quickly and provide some depth then they will be able to play the style they have been accustomed to,” said Fuller. Senior Dai-Quana Echo-Hawk gets the start at center, while junior Lejon Palmer starts at guard. Also look for Fiona Watson, Tailor Scott and Breanna Crutcher to make contributions this year.

coaching quirks. Huster has now come full circle, coaching at Newkirk and replacing Newkirk legend Winburn. CHISHOLM ON THE TRAIL AGAIN

The Lady Longhorns came out of nowhere last season and not only made it to the Class 3A state tournament but kept on winning, knocking off Vian in the opening round and powerhouse Washington in the semifinals to advance to the finals and face Sequoyah Tahlequah. The Lady Longhorns came up short in the championship game but leaving with the silver ball just increased the team’s desire for a title.

Nicole Middleton

HUSTER COMES HOME TO NEWKIRK

With the return of four starters from a year ago the Lady Longhorns are a team that should be in the hunt for a gold ball again this year, their first in program history. Look for seniors Kammi Guber and Nicole Middleton to have big seasons along with juniors Bailey Brown and Kaylee Peterson. Last year those four players combined to average 42 points per game and could all see their numbers increase this year.

LADY WOLVERINES MAKING HISTORY

Mark Huster is returning to his roots. Huster is heading home to Newkirk to take over the girls basketball program, where Newkirk legend Dwight Winburn had made a name for himself. With Winburn stepping down after his second stint at Newkirk, Huster decided to take the job. Huster spent six years coaching at Newkirk’s archrival Tonkawa. After that, he took a short break from coaching. Huster experienced a lot of success at Tonkawa, taking them to their first ever state tournament berth in 2013. Huster seemingly rebuilt the Tonkawa program, and now he hopes to continue his success in his hometown. Huster coached under Winburn in the past, and adopted a few of

After reaching the Big House for the first time in girls’ basketball history at Vian, Jordan Garner’s squad is on a mission to make history repeat itself with an athletic and aggressive roster of talent. The Lady Wolverines’ balanced scoring and depth of playmakers at every position make Vian hard to beat. With a trio of players standing 5-10 or taller (Jasmine Evans, Dia Jackson, Hanna Vickers), Vian can attack the glass and score on the blocks while their cat-quick trio of guards (Desiree Moon, Jennifer Hunter Addie Elbon) allow Garner the option to push the pace of play. Expect the Purple and Gold to be back in the final eight teams in Class 3A girls.

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CLASS 2A CLASS 2A GIRLS RANKINGS

1. Preston 2. Dale 3. Fairview 4. Cashion 5. Howe 6. Latta 7. Kiefer 8. Christian Heritage 9. Ketchum 10. Mangum 11. Wright City 12. Hobart 13. Calera 14. Rush Springs 15. Chouteau-Maizie 16. Savanna 17. Cordell 18. Okemah 19. Tonkawa 20. Oktaha

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PRESEASON RANKINGS CLASS 2A BOYS RANKINGS

1. Preston 2. Wewoka 3. Kiefer 4. Talihina 5. Merritt 6. Pawnee 7. Chouteau-Maizie 8. Hollis 9. Hulbert 10. Howe 11. Northeast 12. Haworth 13. Okemah 14. Central Sallisaw 15. Haskell 16. OBA 17. Afton 18. Ketchum 19. Cashion 20. Dale

2A PRESEASON ALL - VYPE

CLASS 2A PRESEASON TEAM 1ST TEAM BOYS

Gideon Gardner – Pawnee Josh Turley – Afton Koby Goodman – Preston Mason Fielden – Hulbert Lense Ramey IV – Kiefer Vaughn Raney – Cashion 2ND TEAM BOYS

Gaven Brown – Howe Tanner Mong – Merritt Keaton Jackson – Talihina Champ Bridges – Chouteau-Maizie Randy Crawford – Dale Caylan Biddy – Pawnee

Ki Essence Shields

HONORABLE MENTION 1ST TEAM GIRLS

Desmond Crowder – Snyder Brandon Strathe – Rejoice Christian Adam Ross – Foyil Dakota Handke – Oklahoma Union Kyle Howard – Kiefer Parker Taylor – Hulbert Brad McKnight – Calera Shade Nofire – Central Sllisaw

Ki Essence Shields – Preston Claire Chastain – Dale Brayden Dorsey – Howe Lauren Ramey – Kiefer Karson Maple – Cashion Sydney Brinley – Latta 2ND TEAM GIRLS

Taylor Cell – Fairview Macey McKee – Quinton Samantha Allen – Tonkawa Raylee Rogers – Calera Allison Grossman – Chouteau-Maizie Lori White – Yale HONORABLE MENTION

Lense Ramey IV

Jacie Engler – Wright City Kenzie Bean – Okemah Jordan Austin – Oktaha Jaidan Alley – Pawnee Aubrie Ayers – Porum Riley Schenk – Watonga

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Class 2A Watchlist Players to Watch

GIRLS

BOYS

Hannah Chandler – Christian Heritage

Connor Crow – Rejoice Christian

The senior forward was a spark on both ends of the court for head coach Lisa Littlejim last season. On the offensive end she averaged 6.1 points per game, while grabbing 3.1 rebounds. Chandler has worked hard in the offseason to reach her full potential on the floor. The combo of Chandler and guard Victoria Frolich could prove difficult for most Class 2A schools to handle. Dayla Vance – Chouteau-Mazie

Dayla Vance is one of four experienced seniors returning for Chouteau this season. Vance is a talented scorer and is one of the best rebounders on the team. Last season, Vance averaged 10 points per game. She also finished with 19 steals, five assists and 129 rebounds on the year. This year, Vance, alongside Allison Grossman, Shelby Snodgrass and Elizabeth Bond, will be expected to lead Chouteau. Bayli Koontz – Pioneer-Pleasant Vale

The sister of former VYPE Top 100 player and current DI basketball and baseball player Colby Koontz, Bayli is a player who knows what it takes to be great. Standing 6-foot tall she is a nightmare matchup for opposing guards. Chandler Murrell – Kiefer

Last year Murrell wasn’t counted on to be a huge threat to score. That all changes as she enters her senior year as a returning starter with state tournament experience. Get used to hearing this name. Brayden Dorsey – Howe

Consistency and determination were key factors for Dorsey leading the scoring charts for the Lady Lions last season. Averaging 12.6 points and 6-plus rebounds per game, the 5-foot-9 forward creates extra scoring opponents with her talents on the offensive backboards. Dorsey, an All-Conference choice last year, joins her teammates in taking a spiritual emphasis to honor coach Chris Brown’s wife during her battle with breast cancer.

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After a great summer of AAU ball Connor Crow is ready to take on Class 2A and prove Rejoice Christian basketball is for real. Crow averaged 15.5 points and 3.1 assists per game last year from his guard spot. Crow also grabbed 3.0 rebounds utilizing his 6-foot3 frame and ability to climb the ladder. Crow is a solid college prospect and could become one of the more highly recruited guards in Oklahoma as a junior. Tu Godwin – Stroud

Tu Godwin leads all returning starters for the Stroud Tigers. The senior averaged 12.6 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game last season. Godwin is a solid shooter from deep. Last year, he averaged 38 percent from beyond the arc. That clip helped his scoring production, and it should increase this season. Godwin is looking to have a solid year on both sides of the ball. Shade Nofire – Central Sallisaw

Entering his final season in the lineup, Nofire stands ready to help take the Tigers to the next level and a trip to the Class 3A state tournament next March. Last season, the 6-foot forward totaled 15 points per game including 47% field goal percentage during his third year in Central’s lineup, where he totaled 25 points per contest in the playoffs. Parker Taylor – Hulbert

Agility to play from the perimeter and back down opponents in the paint makes the 6-foot-5 three-year starter a key piece in the puzzle as the Riders seek a ticket to the Class 2A state tournament in 2015-2016. While averaging 50.8% on field goals last year, Taylor total 15.3 points per outing while grabbing 7.1 rebounds per contest including 76 offensive boards in 24 games. Trey Allen – Laverne

Chandler Murrell

A junior 5-10 guard for the Tigers, Allen is a player that may not jump of the page but can easily go for 15-20 points any given night. Last year Allen averaged 10 points and 2.7 rebounds per game. Looking for a player who can make a splash? You found him.

Class 2A Notes

What you need to know

Chouteau-Maize Excited for Season Chouteau-Maize and coach Travis Wheeler finished off the 2014-2015 season in wild fashion, falling to Preston in the semifinals of the state tournament. That game took four overtimes to decide a winner, and Wheeler’s Wildcats came up just shy of advancing to the finals. This season, the Wildcats face a new test. They return two starters, but one of those is Champ Bridges. Bridges has been a dynamic playmaker for Chouteau since his freshman season. Now a junior, Bridges has a chance to be the premier player for Chouteau. Bridges led the team in scoring as a sophomore and freshman, so there’s a chance that his numbers will increase significantly now that he is the centerpiece of the team. Coach Wheeler expects his team to take a few lumps early while they replace some of the lost experience, but he believes they have what it takes to make another deep run. Kiefer Sporting Super Sophomore

Merritting the Attention Last year the Merritt Oilers qualified for the Class 2A state tournament in head coach Donnie Husband’s first year at the school. Previously, Husband had coached Latta to backto-back state championships and had the Oilers sitting at 21-7 entering the state tournament. A first round loss to Talihina derailed Merritt’s hopes of a state title in 2015 but with two extremely talented players in juniors Tanner Mong and Luak Tut on the roster again this year expect the Oilers to make yet another deep playoff run. Last year Tut averaged seven points and six assists per game while Mong averaged 15 and five. A well coached team with good size and experience should be a team to watch this season, and a team nobody wants to play once March rolls around.

The Kiefer Lady Trojans made the state tournament last season finishing the 2014/15 campaign with a record of 263. Head coach Cory Campbell returns sophomore sensation Lauren Ramey who averaged 17 points and nine rebounds a game last year. Ramey, known for her straight A’s in the classroom, shot 51% from three point range hitting 72 three’s on the season. At 6-foot-1 Ramey is turning heads and looking to lead this Lady Trojan team to another state tournament run. Senior Chandler Murrell and sophomore McKenzie Cook will play key roles in the teams overall success. “I have a great group of young girls to reload with after graduating three players who started for three years. Defense will be our key once again,” said head coach Cory Campbell. Dale-licious

Winning is an expectation at Dale High School and with their roster of talent on the court this season, the Pirates of coach Jeff Edmonson have reason to believe they can discover a treasure chest of gold next March. The play of point guard Randy Crawford and the combination of Brett Cunningham and Logan Roberts scoring along the blocks, Dale has talent to once again play championship level basketball. Crawford averaged 12.4 points per outing including a sharp-shooting 53% accuracy touch from 3-point territory. “It’s a solid mix of talent and leadership and then combines the kids’ work ethic, we’ve got the players ready to prove they can play championship basketball,” said Edmondson.

Tanner Mong BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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CLASS A CLASS A GIRLS RANKINGS

1. Okarche 2. Pond Creek-Hunter 3. Seiling 4. Glencoe 5. Frontier 6. Stonewall 7. Garber 8. Rattan 9. Hydro-Eakly 10. Kremlin-Hillsdale 11. Cyril 12. Thomas 13. Cheyenne 14. Velma-Alma 15. Canute 16. Kiowa 17. Shattuck 18. Caddo 19. Vici 20. Ft. Cobb-Broxton

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PRESEASON RANKINGS CLASS A BOYS RANKINGS

1. Ft. Cobb-Broxton 2. Glencoe 3. Okay 4. Pond Creek-Hunter 5. Hollis 6. Stuart 7. Seiling 8. Frontier 9. Velma-Alma 10. Lookeba-Sickles 11. Okarche 12. Kiowa 13. Davenport 14. Hydro-Eakly 15. Beaver 16. Canute 17. Mooreland 18. Rattan 19. Clayton 20. Agra

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PRESEASON ALL - VYPE A

CLASS A PRESEASON TEAM 1ST TEAM BOYS

Cameron Hines – Ft. Cobb-Broxton Cole Jones – Pond Creek-Hunter Bryson Lierle – Lookeba-Sickles Ryan Ross – Velma-Alma Jace Welch – Keota Darrius Riggs – Okay 2ND TEAM BOYS

Trey Lazenby – Glencoe Will Krivanek – Union City Cade Harelson – Davenport Kaleb Wilson – Stuart Bowan Nyberg – Seiling Evan Whitt – Empire

Tiarra Davis

HONORABLE MENTION 1ST TEAM GIRLS

Andrew Kuhn – Glencoe Jevan Overton – Pond Creek-Hunter Fernando Castillo – Beaver Greydon Steinmetz – Ft. Cobb-Broxton Jared Hart – Hydro-Eakly Zayne Goode – Stuart Jake Bay – Shattuck Taylor Bentjen – Dewar

Bailey Vogt – Okarche Tiarra Davis – Pond Creek-Hunter Taylor Hedrick – Seiling Andi Pierce – Garber Chelsea Lazenby – Glencoe Amanda Hart – Hydro-Eakly 2ND TEAM GIRLS

McKay Barton – Stuart Anna Cornell – Thomas Alexis Lambert – Stonewall Rebecca Wasson – Kremlin-Hillsdale Kylie Templin – Seiling Tyra Peck – Pond Creek-Hunter HONORABLE MENTION

Bryson Lierle

Ashton Birchfield – Rattan Kelsey Castlebury – Glencoe Tara Mabray – Kiowa Allie Adair – Caddo Sassy McCosar – Strother Carly Pence – Hydro-Eakly Hope Sellers – Okarche

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Class A Watchlist Players to Watch

Dala Carter – Strother

GIRLS Ashton Schaefer – Glencoe Ashton Schaefer is the third piece in the Lady Panthers’ big three. Chelsea Lazenby and Kelsey Castlebury make up the other two pieces. Last season, Schaefer averaged 10.1 points and 5.4 rebounds per game from her position in the post. With Lazenby and Castlebury drawing a lot of attention on offense, Schaefer has a chance to stand out in coach Stephen Castlebury’s offense. Jordan Harris – Kremlin-Hillsdale

As the point guard on a 21-7 Lady Broncs squad last year Harris averaged eight points and four assists per game last year along with being her team’s leading three-point shooter. With a dominant post player like All-VYPE selection Rebecca Wasson to play off of expect Harris to have another stellar season.

Playing with a no-fear attitude, Carter jumped into Strother’s starting lineup as a freshman where the 5-foot-7 guard averaged 15.3 points per contest. With the ability to score off the bounce as well from three point range, Carter will be key in the Lady ‘Jackets success. “All upside potential,’’ said head coach Jared Black. “Not only can she score, Dala sets up her teammates for easy baskets with her passing skills and assists.” BOYS

Braden Bayless – Regent Prep The big 6-foot-6 Bayless is knocking on the door of dominance in Class A. Only a junior, Bayless is turning heads with his play in the paint and his ability to move without the ball. Bayless is listed as a forward, but has the ability to play the post against the oppositions big men. Bayless is certainly a player to watch in Class A. Zach McCarthy – Prue

Zach McCarthy had a strong sophomore season in 2014-2015. McCarthy averaged a double-double, finishing with 11.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.1 blocks, 2.2 assists and 2.1 steals per game. He was the definition of a stat sheet stuffer. The 6-foot-3 junior is looking to expand on those dominant numbers in his junior campaign. McCarthy, alongside senior Justin Evans, is looking to up Prue’s win total from 15 a season ago. Taylor & Alan Bentzen – Dewar

When you try to deny one of the Dewar twins, the other takes charge for coach Brett Thomas. The Dragon’s backcourt combine to total 29.3 points and 12.4 rebounds per game as either player can score from the outside as well as attack the paint on the bounce. Taylor averaged 18 points and seven boards while the 5-foot-11 twin, Alan totaled 11 points and five rebounds to help Dewar to an 18-7 mark last season. Kaleb Wilson – Stuart

The Hornets are abuzz surrounding the expectations of returning to the Class A state tournament field where coach Michael Langley’s squad reached the semifinal round while posting a 26-4 record. Wilson, a 6-foot senior guard, will once again be the playmaker in Stuart’s offense after averaging 19.3 points per game. Tyler Barnett – Hydro-Eakly

Ashton Schaefer

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Barnett is the type of player every coach wants on their team. He can do it all and he can do it all efficiently. Unfortunately, Barnett’s season was cut short last year do to injury but in the time he did play he averaged 8.6 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

Class A Notes

What you need to know

Glencoe Teams Ranked in the Top Five Not many schools in the state can say both their girl and boy basketball programs have a chance to not only compete, but also win a state title. Glencoe is one of those schools. Last season, the girls’ team, led by coach Stephen Castlebury, finished 24-8 and made the state tournament. The boys’ team, led by coach John Lazenby, however, finished 29-3 and won the state finals. The Panthers had one of the best players in the state, regardless of class, in Ty Lazenby. The question is, with him gone, how will they do? Who will replace him? There are more than a few candidates, including Ty’s brother and John’s son Trey. Only a sophomore, Trey has a chance to take over the leadership role of this team. On the girls’ side, Ty’s sister Chelsea Lazenby is the unquestionable leader of the Lady Panthers. The question for her is, can she lead the Lady Panthers to similar success? More of the Same for Myers and Okarche

She’s won state titles. She’s coached great players. She even has over 800 wins in her career, but Cherie Myers isn’t slowing down and neither are the Okarche Lady Warriors. Ranked No. 1 in VYPE’s preseason rankings the Lady Warriors are led by VYPE Top 100 selection Bailey Vogt and should yet again contend for a state championship. Last year, as a sophomore, Vogt averaged 14.6 points per game. Look for those numbers to go up this year and for fellow returning starters Natasha Heupel and Hope Sellers to also have big seasons.

Last year the Lady Warriors came up just short and lost a heartbreaker to Thomas in the finals. This season expect a hungry team led by a coach who knows how to get her team to the top of the mountain, a recipe that is sure to have most teams in Class A

more than a bit nervous.

Caleb Kingsley to Lead OCA

Oklahoma Christian Academy head coach Robert Gregg enters the season with a squad capable of putting up big numbers as senior guard Caleb Kingsley returns for his final season. Kingsley averaged 16.9 points, 3.4 assists and 2.2 rebounds per game last year. That production will help the Eagles if they want to repeat another 20 win season. “We had a good season last year. We lost in the Area Consolation finals, which is the furthest we’ve been in school history. We look to improve on that this year with four starters coming back and a solid bench. Like I’ve told my guys, on paper we look to have a great season, but we have to win it on the court,” said Gregg. Kingsley is joined on the court by Asa Kingsley (6-4, Jr.), Jacob Yager (5-10, Jr.), Rylee Gee (6-3, Jr.) and Robert Gregg (6-2, So.). Also look for Jalen Anderson, Steven Gordon, Chandler Farris, Cameron Stevens and Tommy Imbu. Caddo Lady Bruins on the Move

Bailey Vogt

The Lady Bruins are on the move making the change to the Class A courts of play this season after a 22-4 campaign a year ago. The move is cause for concern for Caddo opponents as coach Vernon Johnson returns four starters including 5-8 junior guard Alli Adair, who averaged 17.5 points per game, while dishing out 177 assists and snatching 141 steals. Taylor Barrett, who averaged 11.8 points and 5.0 rebounds will be joined by Jayci Braudrick and Kacie Glover as Caddo’s bench play will be a major key to allow the Lady Bruins to exceed their expectations and return to the Big House after a one-year absence. BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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CLASS B CLASS B GIRLS RANKINGS

1. Lomega 2. Coyle 3. Forgan 4. Red Oak 5. Burlington 6. Leedey 7. Erick 8. Timberlake 9. Varnum 10. Arnett 11. Mt. View-Gotebo 12. Chattanooga 13. Idianola 14. Kinta 15. Hammon 16. Duke 17. Pittsburg 18. Indiahoma 19. Leflore 20. Mulhall-Orlando

PRESEASON RANKINGS CLASS B BOYS RANKINGS

1. Red Oak 2. Forgan 3. Chattanooga 4. Leedey 5. Hammon 6. Kinta 7. Cimarron 8. Boise City 9. Leflore 10. Duke 11. Coyle 12. Corn Bible 13. Big Pasture 14. Erick 15. Tyrone 16. Ft. Supply 17. Waynoka 18. Shidler 19. DCLA 20. Felt

PRESEASON ALL - VYPE B

CLASS B PRESEASON TEAM 1ST TEAM BOYS

Brad Davis – Red Oak Dee Alston – Forgan Dewayne Grogan – Red Oak Cole Bergdall – Cimarron Corey Garza – Chattanooga Hank Harrell – Leedey 2ND TEAM BOYS

Dalton Wauqua – Chattanooga Justin Pile – Kinta Chaz Newton – Coyle Bradley Davis – Arnett Harrison Muegge – Deer Creek-Lamont Jaedon Whitfield – Boise City

Taber Beer

HONORABLE MENTION 1ST TEAM GIRLS

Cody Mathews – Forgan Lashay Johnson – Coyle Logan Meriwether – Waynoka Shane Harms – Southwest Covenant Ishta Glass – Big Pasture Tatum Crouch – Duke Tristan Phisgoda – Arnett

Tyra Aska – Coyle Destiny Alston – Forgan Sarah Garvie – Burlington McKenzie Janz – Erick Taber Beer – Leedy Rainey Mauzey – Red Oak 2ND TEAM GIRLS

Cynda Factor – Sasakwa McKenzie Lamer – Lomega Shilah Young – Coyle Britany Ward – Red Oak Courtney Morgan – Ft. Cobb-Broxton Kelsi Smith – Burlington HONORABLE MENTION

Dee Alston

Maci Mendell – Lomega Rashell Williams – Hammon Lacie Blankenship – Pittsburg Callie Jo Armstrong – Caney Christian Wind – Varnum Brittany Blankinship – Mulhall-Orlando

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Class B Watchlist Players to Watch

GIRLS Hannah Cook – Southwest Covenant Only a sophomore, Hannah Cook could blossom into a great player this season. Last year she averaged 11.4 points, 2.5 assists and 2.6 steals from her point guard position, which are great numbers for a freshman. Cook was named All-State Honorable Mention last year. When this season is over we could be talking about Cook as a Top 100 player as a junior. Shelby Jennings – Coyle

Shelby Jennings was an instrumental piece in Coyle’s title game run last season. Alongside Tyra Aska and Shilah Young, two talented players, Jennings averaged 10 points, four rebounds and two steals per game. Jennings is a dynamic player on both ends of the floor who compliments Aska and Young really well. Jennings adds a dimension to the offense, and allows coach Tom Webb to be aggressive on defense. Expect for her to have a solid senior season. Lacie Blankenship – Pittsburg

All-conference in basketball as well as softball, Blankenship carries over her confidence by example with her teammates on the court. At 5-foot-10, she has the ball-handling skills to creates points for others as well as score off the dribble and from the perimeter where Blankenship averaged 41% from three point range while totaling 15.1 points and 8.0 rebounds for the Lady Panthers who ended 2015 with a 20-9 season. The multi-talented point guard is another coach’s kid that serves as the coach on the court.

this year. In Mike Deckman’s Flex offense she should get plenty of looks at easy baskets. BOYS

Ricky Thom – Kinta

The Eagles have high hopes to earn their way to playing on Saturday at the Big House especially when Thom, a 6-foot scoring guard for coach Jim Jensen’s lineup, has the ball in his hands. A third year performer and All-Conference selection as a junior, Thom averaged 11.7 points and three rebounds in addition to distributing assists to his teammates as Kinta rolled to a 23-8 record. Christian Wind – Varnum

The success for coach Jon Hadley’s squad will include the return of Christian Wind to the court after an ACL tear in the regionals sidelined Varnum’s leading returning scorer. As a freshman, Wind totaled 12.1 points and 4.1 rebounds but was the catalyst in driving the offense dishing out 5.4 assists per game to earn All-Conference honors. Caden Calaway – Leedey

A 5-fot-8 senior guard Calaway is just a playmaker. He averaged 13.8 points per game last season and shot 56 percent from the field along with 74 percent from the charity stripe. The Bison are a team to watch an a big part of that is the play of Calaway.

Anissa Bearbow – Hammon

A 5-10 center Bearbow has the size it takes to dominate in the paint. Last season she averaged four points and six rebounds per game and could easily see those numbers jump up

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Dewayne Grogan

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Dewayne Grogan – Red Oak

Described by his coach as a “true workhorse” Dewayne Grogan returns to the starting five for a third consecutive season for the Eagles. Last year, Grogan’s 10.5 points and 7.4 rebounds per outing were key in Red Oak’s return to the Class B state tournament. “Dewayne defines our team motto “Outwork Everyone We Play,” said coach Trey Booth. “His work ethic and determination won’t allow him to take a day off.”

Class B Notes

What you need to know

Coyle Determined to Finish The Coyle girls’ team, led by coach Tom Webb, fell just short of their goal of a state title. Lomega outlasted Coyle to win the title. Coming into this season, Webb likes the chances of his team. The Bluejackets return all 10 players who contributed from last year’s team, and are adding two players to go along with those 10. One of the girls is coming from Texas, and the other girl missed last year and is returning this year. Tyra Aska, a VYPE Top 100 player, leads the Bluejackets this year alongside dynamic playmaker Shilah Young. These two girls are the centerpieces for Coyle and coach Webb, and they will try to lead Coyle back to the state tournament. Once there, they hope to finish what they started and win the state title. Red Oak All-In

Trips to the state tournament are part of the school calendar at Red Oak where school officials schedule a threeday moratorium from the classroom every March because of the success of the boys and girls basketball teams. A perennial entry in the Class B state tournament bracket, Trey Booth’s lineup of talent expecting the Eagles to bring home a gold ball in March. Colte Browne and Dewayne Grogan return at forward as the team’s leading scorers and the addition of sharp-shooting playmaker Brad Davis to the guard position on the Red Oak roster escalates the opportunities for success while Lane Grogan, Chase Butcher and Chance Long provide physical skill in the paint. Grayson Nix, who averaged 8.4 points per game as a freshman last year gives Booth a variety of player combination opportunities.

guard Grayson Wilbanks provide depth off the bench.

Sleeper Pick: Mulhall-Orlando Could Sneak up on Teams this Year A year ago the Mulhall-Orlando Lady Panthers finished 7-19 but that record was a bit misleading due to several injuries that sidelined players throughout the season. This year the Lady Panthers are back at full strength and head coach Becki Meuten couldn’t be more excited.

“We are excited about this season. We have all the injured players back and a full roster of freshmen that will contribute to the team. We are very fortunate to have both size and quickness. I look for us to surprise a lot of teams,” Meuten said. With senior forwards Brittany Blankinship, an allconference selection last year, and Erin Crow leading the way and freshman point guard Alexis Pack joining the fold we here at VYPE couldn’t agree more. The Lady Panthers are definitely a team to watch who could knock off anyone on a given night if they even think of looking past them.

“These kids like to work,” said Booth. “Our lineup of playmakers give us a variety of options to score and when we play just as hard on defense we can be pretty good.” Finding Their Identity at SW Covenant

Expectations are high at Southwest Covenant after two consecutive trips to the state tournament. Head coach Kevin Cobbs admits he has a young team this season, but the players are responding the challenge of making it three in a row. “We are a young team that will have to find their own identity as the season progresses. After two consecutive trips to the state tournament the expectations they’ve placed on themselves is very high. This team is well aware of what it takes to play at that level,” said Cobbs. Shane Harms returns for his junior year after averaging seven points and 2.5 assists per game last year. Harms is joined by Sam Webb (6-0, So.) who worked his way into the starting lineup last year during the state tournament. Bryce Brown, Josiah Bixler and Kelly Young are exciting sophomores, while junior Derek, Luke Ross and Sean Tucker will play key roles this year for coach Cobbs. Senior post player Dillon Ludlow and sophomore

Rainey Mauzey BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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University Tulsa University RogersofState

RSU MEN The 2014-15 edition of Rogers State The Rogers State men’s basketball team turns to a core group of returners as they continue to contend in the NCAA Division II Heartland Conference, entering year three in the league.

“We are very excited about this group, this team, and this year,” sixth-year Head Coach Justin Barkley said. “I think the guys are going to continue to buy in about who we are. This is a team our community, University, and athletic department can be proud of, and hopefully when the ball is thrown up, we have a group that will compete at a high level.”

The Hillcats return eight players from a 20-win team a season ago, finishing second in the standings going 14-6 in conference play. Leading the charge are a pair of senior guards in J.C. Hartzler (Tulsa, Okla.) and Donald Moore (Chicago Heights, Ill.), who averaged 14.3 and 9.9 points per game in 2014-15. “J.C. has lived up to everything we hoped he would be as a former Tulsa World Player of the Year, and is a few hundred points from being the school’s all-time leading scorer. We can’t put a price on what he’s meant for us, and I expect big things from him,” Barkley mentioned.

RSU will rely on its depth from players returning to a familiar system. Guards Corey Ayala (Metropolis, Ill.) and Jordan Huffman (Broken Arrow, Okla.) join forwards Jeylyn Sharpe (Ketchum, Okla.), Matt Lea (Stilwell, Okla.), and Johnathon Buckley (Kellyville, Okla.).

The addition of three, highly-touted transfers and a former Oklahoma Class 4A State Player of the Year bolster the lineup adding size and an outside shooting presence. Travis Julien (Vacherie, La.) and Robert Johnson (Cleveland, Ohio) come to the Hill from Nicholls State and Northern Michigan for their final collegiate season. “Robert will be one of those guys that can use his body to defend well and rebound in the interior,” Barkley added. “Travis is a 6-8, long, and athletic player that runs the floor well. His ability to be active around the rim and push the ball in transition was something our team lacked a year ago.”

Junior Travis Hester (Crozet, Va.) joins the team as a three-point specialist from Saint Peter’s and Chase Littlejohn (Stilwell, Okla.) makes the jump to the college ranks after a decorated prep career at Stilwell High School history. “One thing that Travis does really well is stretch the defense and shoot the basketball,” Barkley said. “Chase is coming in and trying to adapt to the college game, but I think he is going to be a guy that our fans come to appreciate in the years to come.”

JC Hartzler

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While still not postseason eligible, the Hillcats have quickly become one of the top teams in the league and face another demanding schedule. RSU starts

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

with three exhibition contests against NCAA Division I teams Oral Roberts, New Mexico, and Tulsa before early season tests with perennial powers Metropolitan State University of Denver (Nov. 13) and Western State (Nov. 14).

SCHEDULE

11/2/15 Oral Roberts (Exhibition) 11/6/15 New Mexico (Exhibition) 11/10/2015 Tulsa (Exhibition) 11/13/15 Metro State 11/14/15 Western State 11/18/15 Dallas Christian 11/21/15 Ecclesia (Homecoming) 11/24/15 Northeastern State 11/30/15 Bacone 12/5/15 Cameron 12/12/15 Dallas Baptist * 12/14/15 Hillsdale Free Will Baptist 12/17/15 UA Fort Smith * 12/31/15 Texas-Permian Basin * 1/2/16 St. Edward’s * 1/7/16 Texas A&M International * 1/9/16 St. Mary’s * 1/14/16 Lubbock Christian * 1/16/16 Oklahoma Panhandle State * 1/21/16 Newman * 1/23/16 Oklahoma Christian * 1/28/16 St. Edward’s * 1/30/16 Texas-Permian Basin * 2/4/16 St. Mary’s * 2/6/16 Texas A&M International * 2/11/16 Oklahoma Panhandle State * 2/13/16 Lubbock Christian * 2/18/16 Oklahoma Christian * 2/20/16 Newman * 2/27/16 UA Fort Smith * 2/29/16 Dallas Baptist *.

RSU WOMEN

The Rogers State women’s basketball team will have an entirely different look on the Hill in 2015-16 as it tries to climb the Heartland Conference standings, entering its third year as a member of the NCAA Division II league. “I am excited for my second year here as head coach and the team we’ve got,” Bobby Cope said. “It is a great group of girls and they have been working extremely hard in the preseason. They are coming together better than we’ve had a team come together in the preseason in the last couple years.” Kami Bunch (Tulsa, Okla.) is the only player returning to the Hillcats’ lineup with more than one year of experience at RSU. She begins her senior season as the starting point guard after starting all 26 games a season ago, averaging 8.3 points per game, while her 4.4 assists per contest ranked second in the conference.

“Kami has had two very successful seasons for us,” Cope added. “She is one of the best point guards in the conference when it comes to distributing the ball. We

Kami Bunch

have to rely on Kami a whole lot more as far as providing scoring.”

Heather Roberts (Colleyville, Texas) and Madison Dearmin (Balko, Okla.) are the only other two returners for the Hillcats after both got significant minutes as freshmen in 2014-15 making 23 and 21 appearances, respectively.

“Heather had a great offseason and is coming in in excellent shape and will have a great year for us. There are not many people that will out-work her,” Cope mentioned. “Madison is the type that will run through a wall and do everything that the staff or her teammates need done.”

The rest of the roster is filled with 10 newcomers vying for time on the floor as one senior, four juniors, and one sophomore transfer join four freshmen. While the main challenge has been to learn a new system, the players have accepted the task.

“The biggest thing right now is we have a lot of new players coming from different backgrounds and trying to get everyone used to how we do things at RSU,” Cope said. Emily Gamble (Omaha, Neb.), Rachel Block (Tulsa, Okla.), Courtney Smith (Okay, Okla.), and Natasha Kindred (San Antonio, Texas) all come to RSU with collegiate experience and will be looked upon to provide a bulk of the offensive production.

Two early signings from the Arkansas prep ranks, Carlye Bohannan (Springdale, Ark.) and Lauren Schuldt (Fayetteville, Ark.), join the program with fellow freshmen Lindsey Byfield (Inola, Okla.). The trio has a chance to jump right into the action and make their presence known for the Hillcats.

For the fourth-straight year, RSU kicks off its season with an exhibition contest Oct. 30 at NCAA Division I University of Tulsa before its season opener in Wichita Falls, Texas Nov. 13 at Midwestern State.

SCHEDULE 10/30/15 Tulsa (Exhibition) 11/13/15 Midwestern State 11/14/15 Texas Woman’s 11/19/15 Bacone 11/21/15 Ecclesia (Homecoming) 11/24/15 Northeastern State 11/28/15 Northwestern Oklahoma St. 12/5/15 Texas A&M-Commerce 12/12/15 Henderson State 12/17/15 UA Fort Smith * 12/31/15 Texas-Permian Basin * 1/2/16 St. Edward’s * 1/7/16 Texas A&M International * 1/9/16 St. Mary’s * 1/14/16 Lubbock Christian * 1/16/16 Oklahoma Panhandle State * 1/21/16 Newman * 1/23/16 Oklahoma Christian * 1/28/16 St. Edward’s * 1/30/16 Texas-Permian Basin * 2/4/16 St. Mary’s * 2/6/16 Texas A&M International * 2/11/16 Oklahoma Panhandle State * 2/13/16 Lubbock Christian * 2/18/16 Oklahoma Christian * 2/20/16 Newman * 2/27/16 UA Fort Smith *

Your Success Starts Here. Rogers State University provides – Small class sizes – Personalized academic attention – Financial aid packages – On-campus housing – NCAA Division II athletics

www.rsu.edu | 800-256-7511

Cl are more | Bartlesvi lle | Pryor | Onli ne

University ofState Tulsa Connors

CONNORS MEN Photos by Von Castor After getting off to a 2-1 start, Bill Muse’s cagers rattled off 30 straight victories, ending with a loss in the Elite Eight at the NJCAA national tournament. Adding to the excitement was the play of three front court standouts in Ronnie Boyce, Corlbe Ervin and Phabian Glasco, all of whom signed with NCAA D-1 teams, raising to 74 the number of players Muse has successfully coached to the next level.

“I think you have to be a good evaluator to identify kids with potential,” said Muse, now entering his 24th season as the head Cowboy. “You also have to do a good job of developing their skills and I’ve been blessed to have talented assistants over the years that have helped me do that. Cameron Henderson played for me and at Montana State before coming back here as an assistant and he was good at skill development. Now we’ve hired Sam Grooms who played at OU and he was the skill development guy for them.”

per game. He’ll be backed up by 6-4 Tray Sanders from OKC Douglas. At the off-guard spot the battle is between DJ Evans, who saw some playing time last year, and Muse’s son, Bill Jr., coming in off a record-setting career at Hilldale. “I’m looking forward to coaching my son and I don’t think I could have made a better decision,” said the elder Muse. “He had other opportunities to go elsewhere but I wouldn’t have gotten to see him. Now I see him every day. No matter how much he plays, it’s just a pleasure to be able to have your son around for two more years.” At small forward, Connors will look to Deven Simms, who averaged just over 10 points per game off the bench last year. He’ll be spelled by freshman Adarius Avery Memphis.

Connors also recruited some size to complement the inside play of Cook. Daniel DeCosta from Victory Christian redshirted last year and at 6-7, 250 will add some muscle in the paint or on the wing. Also joining the Cowboys is 6-8 forward Braydon Powell from Moore by way of Mississippi Valley State, and 6-7 forward Kamari Williams, who Muse feels will be an impact player once he bulks up a little.

“We’ve only got 11 players on the roster and I think they all can play,” said Muse. “To me the whole key to our Connors starts the 2015 campaign with a target on their success will be staying healthy. With only 11 players, we back as they are ranked 10th nationally in the Sporting don’t have a lot of depth and it will be hard to overcome News pre-season poll. One of the main reasons for that a lot of injuries. But if we can keep 11 guys healthy most ranking is the return of 6-8 center Arlando Cook. The St. of the year, I think we’ll be pretty talented.” And that’s Louis native averaged 11.4 points and 9.3 rebounds per pretty high praise from a guy who’s made eight trips to game last season and averaged a double-double during the junior college big dance. the national tournament. He’s considered a top tier D-1 recruit and that interest is sure to increase after Cook withdrew a verbal commitment he made to Nevada over the summer. Replacing their departed backcourt trio will be the top priority for the Cowboys. Demari Edwards will be the top candidate for the point guard position. Though not a starter, the 6-0 sophomore out of Tulsa Memorial, saw a lot of playing time last season and averaged nine points

Demari Edwards

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

Arlando

CONNORS WOMEN:

Following a season with an injury and strife-ridden team, there are smiles on the face of the Connors State Cowgirls and interim head coach Jamie Fisher, who takes the reins of the Cowgirls program after coach Rusty Laverentz resigned for personal reasons one week prior to the beginning of the season. Prior to joining the Connors women’s camp last year, Fisher spent four years coaching at Howard College after spending two seasons at Coffeyville Community College. One of the main things that Cowgirls coaches focused on in recruiting was size. Last season, Connors had only three players that were 5-10 or taller. But with this year’s recruits, the Cowgirls will have six girls on the roster that have Cook that size. The one player that Fisher will pin most of his hopes on is 5-10 forward

Hanna Bowman from Beggs, and 6-4 sophomore Ginelle Ifill from England. Also returning will be Miranda Stiles from Kiowa who averaged nearly seven points a game from the offguard spot, and Baylee Evans from Red Oak who will move to help out at point guard this year. New to the Cowgirl squad this year will be Bailey Pendley, an All-Stater from Ketchum who can play a variety Philicea Mack Miranda Stiles of positions. Micaela Norment, 5-10, comes to Warner from Conway, Arkansas where she played on a team Philicea Mack. The Spiro native averaged 15.7 points that won three state championships, and Butler and 11.5 rebounds per game before suffering a County transfer Briane ‘Lache Miller who will take season-ending knee injury in the sixth game last on the point guard spot. Denora Wheeland from year. Haskell will bring a lot of athleticism to the Cowgirls, “It will be good to have Philicea back this year,” and Muskogee’s Alexus Wilson, who transferred said Fisher. “She just does everything right and was from Oral Roberts, are also expected to be key just getting hot when she got hurt. In her last three contributors for Connors in the 2015 season. games she averaged 28 points a game.” “We have a really great group of hard working, Also adding height to the roster will be 6-2 post dedicated women who I will be coaching this year,” player Deshawnta’ Lyday out of Tulsa East Central said Fisher. “It’s a dream come true and we have high by way of Kilgore Junior College, 5-11 freshman hopes for this season.” Alyssa Crase from Greenwood, Arkansas, who Laverentz compares to Mack in size and ability, 5-11

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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Northern Oklahoma College

NOC ENID MEN Coach: Greg Shamburg

Assistant Coaches: Connor Brooks, Ryan Wilkinson

Greg Shamburg’s NOC Enid basketball team finished the 2015-15 season with a record of 19-10. They will start the season with a whole new roster. With just three sophomores and only one that played significant time, the Jets will try to reload this season. A roster that includes six international athletes, two transfers and size at every position, this team will play more physical brand of basketball. The Jets have two Faith Seven All-Stars in Cade Upshaw and TyLazensby. Ty was also picked for the Super 5 team. Chris Jefferson, a red-shirt freshman, should provide some leadership and athleticism on the floor. The Jets also have a new member on its staff, Connor Brooks, a former player who finished his career at Stephen F. Austin. You can find the Jets schedule and roster at www.noc.ed/mensbasketball3.

NOC ENID WOMEN Coach: Scott Morris

Assistant Coach: Rose Anderson

The NOC Enid women’s basketball team has established a high level of expectation in their tradition-rich program.

The first 14 seasons have produced 10 NJCAA All-Americans, 41 Academic All-Americans, three NJCAA National championships, and finished 4th in the NJCAA National Tournament in 2011. Although this team finished second in the conference, the early exit from the Region 2 tournament las led Scott Morris to reload with that he feels is his most talented freshman class his program has seen. In addition to returning starters Gabbie Parsons, Cordell; and Alexis Hill, Byng; the Lady Jets have added freshman standouts Dossou Ndiaye, Senegal; and Rylie Torrey, Locust Grove. Torrey was named Tulsa World Player of the Year, 4A State Tournament MVP and won the Wendy’s High School Heisman award. They are joined by incoming Oklahoma All-Staters Logan Burgess, Tonkawa; Kiki Boyer, Sapulpa; Carley Frymire, Thomas; Maci Hanson, Choctaw; and Lora Riley, Alva. NOC Enid is ready to make another bid a championship.

NOC TONKAWA MEN Coach: Donnie Jackson

Assistant Coach: Jason Hinson

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

With a strong finish to the 2014-15 basketball season and a 2nd place OCAC finish, the NOC Tonkawa Mavericks look to carry some momentum into the 2015-16 season. The Mavericks return five sophomores who all gained valuable experience last season. Six foot wing Jarrid Rhodes is the Maverick’s leading returning scorer, who averaged 10.1 PPG as a freshman. Also returning are 5’10 Torey Noel, 8.6 PPG,

6’2 Costa Anderson, 9.4 PPG, 6’11 Valentine Sangoyomi, 5.8 PPG, 7.1 RPG, and 6’4 Travon Moore, 4.1 PPG. Rhodes, Noel and Anderson each started more than 15 games last season. Those three combined to hit 105 three-point shots and combined for 90 steals. Sangoyomi committed to the University of Houston in the early signing period. He will be counted on being an inside offensive presence, rebounder and rim protector. Several freshmen will need to step up if the Mavs are going to be competitive in the rugged and always tough OCAC. Those freshman include 6’7 Reggie Scurry, 6’7 Dwayne Brown and 6’6 Keeshawn Palmer.

each other. We were a very young team. This year we know how to handle each other.” Sandlin steps in to lead the Lady Mavs along with Jackson and Hill. Jackson averaged 5.4 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 2.7 APG and Hill finished with 6.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG and 2.0 APG. Freshman Laramie Edens will be a newcomer to watch for the Lady Mavs. Edens played for Latta High School in Ada. She finished her senior year with 12.1 PPG, 5.5 RPG and 1.5 APG. The Lady Mavs opened their season Oct. 11 in Frisco, TX at the Southwest Women’s JUCO Showcase.

NOC

TONKAWA WOMEN Coach: Greg Krause

Assistant Coach: Nate Macy

The NOC Tonkawa Lady Mavericks basketball team finished last season with an 18-14 record. The year’s returning starters include forward Alicia Sandlin, guard Darian Hill and guard Paj Jackson. Coach Greg Krause is looking to improve the Lady Mavs and move into postseason play this year. Krause, going into his 33rd year of coaching the Lady Mavs, said, “I feel like we are quicker on the perimeter. We have a lot of improved depth on the roster with the incoming freshmen. Last year set a good tone for this year.” The Lady Mavs return eight players who look to be contenders for a title. Sandlin, who finished last year with an average of 8.4 PPG, 0.7 AP and 4.3 RPG, spoke of her team with great enthusiasm, saying, “Last year everyone was getting used to

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University of Tulsa Southern Nazarene University

SNU MEN Coming off a year in which Southern Nazarene reached the Great American Conference Championships in its first year of postseason eligibility, the Crimson Storm have high expectations heading into the 2015-16 season.

SNU did not have a senior on last year’s squad that finished 13-14 overall and 9-11 in the GAC. All five starters return, including All-GAC honorable mention LB Willis who ranked 16th in the nation in steals with 73. He led the conference in assists (4.4 apg.), was 12th in scoring (13.7 ppg.) and was 17th in rebounding (5.4 rpg.). C.J. Rodriguez and Francisco Hukill also return after averaging a combined 22.7 points per contest. Rodriguez averaged 11.4 points 2.9 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game while Hukill averaged 11.3 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game. Anton Kankaanpaa and Jared Starkey, but juniors for SNU are expected to have big impacts after a surge in playing time their sophomore year. Garrett Butler, the only other four-year senior outside of Hukill, is always a threat off of the bench. He averaged 8.9 points per game and shot 44.5 percent from 3-point range. That was the third best percentage in a single-season in school history. Dartanyon Meggs and Miles Finch also played significant roles last year for SNU and help depth in different positions. SNU will welcome seven new faces for the 2015-16 season and while their impact will be defined in the

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BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

upcoming years, there’s no doubt this is one of the thickest teams head coach Adam Bohac has had in recent years. C.J. White, a 6-5, 235-pound, a junior transfer from Jones County Junior College is expected to help in the post. He helped lead Jones County to the NJCAA Division I National Championship. Garrett McGrady (6-7, 250) and Noah Starkey (6-11, 250) will also add size in the paint. McGrady comes to SNU after playing football at Tulsa and played four seasons at Bethany (Okla.) High School. Starkey joins his older brother after helping Central Christian High School to a fourth place finish at Kansas 1A Division II State Tournament. Deshon Portley, a transfer from Laramie County Community College, and Quaylon Newton, a freshman from Bryan, Texas, will also give the Storm strength at the guard position. Portley was an NJCCAA All-American honorable mention and left Laramie as the school’s alltime leading scorer. Newton was the District Player of the Year for Bryan High School and was ranked the 56th best player by TexasHoops.com.

SNU WOMEN

Southern Nazarene enters this season looking to rebound after a tough 2014-2015 campaign, which saw the Crimson Storm register just an 8-18 record, including a 5-15 in conference, and a last place finish in the Great American Conference.

SNU comes into the season looking to replace two starters off last year’s squad, as Ashley Gorman and Aminata Fall have graduated. Gorman finished last season second on the team in rebounding and steals, while Fall led the GAC in rebounds and blocks per game and finished second in points per game. Fall also finished her career hold school records for defensive rebounds, rebounds per game, defensive rebounds per game, and blocks per game. Looking to pick up the slack for the Crimson Storm will be Abby Boyd. The junior from Yukon, Oklahoma, earned an AllGreat American Conference honorable mention by leading the Crimson Storm in assists, steals, and 3-point shooting. Boyd ranked third in the GAC in three-point field goals made (66 fgm), seventh in scoring (13.5 ppg), eight in assists (3.0 apg), and tenth in steals (1.4 spg). Also returning for SNU

SNU will welcome four new faces to the program for the 2015-2016 season, hoping to increase depth to make up for the loss of Fall and Gorman. The recruiting class is comprised of junior college transfers Erika Brown and Chelseah Savage, as well as incoming freshmen Adrienne Berry and Kandyce Freeman. Savage looks to provide depth at the guard position, coming from Southeast Community College in Milford, Nebraska. Savage averaged 9.9 points, 3.6 assists, and 2.5 rebounds for the Huskies, and was a two-time All-Region, AllConference, and All-State selection.

is sophomore LaShabra Plunkett. Plunkett averaged 5.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game, ranking sixth in the GAC in blocks per game.

The Crimson Storm will also benefit from the return of Ashley Almond, who missed all of the 2014-2015 season with a season-ending injury. During her freshman season, Almond played in 21 games for the Storm, averaging 3.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.

Freeman and Berry will strengthen the forward position, with Berry coming in after scoring more than 1,000 points during her high school career for Mount Saint Mary. Freeman was twice named All-District while at Prosper (Texas) High School, and was also named team Most Valuable Player after her junior and senior seasons.

Brown comes to SNU from Hill College in Hillsboro, Texas. The 6-4 junior will look to fill the gap left by the departure of Fall, after helping lead the Rebels to the Region V Tournament last season.

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2015-2016

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