VYPE Three Rivers Oklahoma November 2015 Issue by Austin Chadwick

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NOVEMBER 2015

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Trinity Media Group, LLC 12330 E. 60th St. STE A • Tulsa, OK 74146 All rights reserved. Publisher: Austin Chadwick • Editorial Director: Brad Heath • Market Director: Bill Huddleston Contributing Writers: Bill Huddleston, Vickie Tincher, Nick Hampton, Kyle Kendrick, Brad Heath, Rod Coulter, Cal Ross Contributing Photographers: John Hasler, Vickie Tincher, Bill Huddleston, Kyle Kendrick, Brandy Moton, Wendy Smith, Ruth Kelly Studios, Dana Hensley, Craig Hall-Heavener Ledger, Sam Perry, Linda Bighorse, Brandon Armstrong, Sheri Risenhoover, Von Castor, Ruth Kelly Studios, Warner Schools, Henryetta Schools, Heavener Schools, Sallisaw Schools, Tahlequah Schools, Beggs Schools, Wister Schools, Sequoyah-Tahlequah Schools, Poteau Schools, Checotah Schools CONTACT INFORMATION • Website: www.VYPEOK.com • Phone: 918.495.1771 • Fax: 918-495.1778 Advertising: bill.huddleston@vype.com Phone: 918.869.8212 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.

6 | PICTURE THIS

26 | VYPE TOP 100

Heroes of the hardwood are showcased as the high school basketball season tips off with one game plan – GOLD BALL.

14 | ALL-VYPE As the fall sports season wraps up, the best of the best in fastpitch softball, cross-country, volleyball and cheer earn ALL-VYPE honors.

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27 | FAB FIVE

Fourteen players from Three Rivers join this year’s top basketball players in Oklahoma to make up the VYPE Top 100 and enter the chase to become Mr. and Miss Basketball 2015 sponsored by Shelter Insurance.

Preseason rankings in all seven divisions of girls and boys basketball are filled with teams from Three Rivers in this month’s FAB FIVE.

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F E AT U R E

ARKOMA LADY MUSTANGS

BRAGGS WILDCATS

GORE LADY PIRATES

BEGGS LADY DEMONS

CENTRAL TIGERS

HULBERT RIDERS

GANS LADY GRIZZLIES

HUNTER BRAY-GARRETT CASADY WEBBERS FALLS

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AN J AUO N GV UE M AS R TBYE2R02 10231021 5

Photo by Bill Huddlston

Photo by Vickie Tincher

VYPE PHOTOGRAPHERS PRESENT SOME OF THE MANY HEROES OF THE HARDWOOD IN THIS MONTH’S PICTURE THIS.

Photo By Craig Hall-Heavener Ledger

P I C T UFRE EA TTUHRI S E

WESTVILLE YELLOWJACKETS

OKEMAH PANTHERS

OKMULGEE LADY BULLDOGS KEYS COUGARS

PORUM PANTHERS

MULDROW LADY BULLDOGS

ROLAND RANGERS

STILWELL INDIANS

HENRYETTA LADY KNIGHTS N OJ VA EN UM G UB U A ER S RYT 2 0 1 352

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Area Softball Recap Wildcats Roar To Class A Fastpitch Softball State Finals

WISTER ONE OF EIGHT TEAMS FROM THREE RIVERS AT OSSAA CHAMPIONSHIPS The field of teams competing for the OSSAA fastpitch state championships was again filled with teams from Three Rivers as eight teams chased their dreams of a state title in five of the seven classifications.

Topping the list were the Lady Wildcats of Wister who virtually blanked their opponents during the postseason. The Lady Wildcats posted eight shutouts in their nine outings while outscoring the competition by a 75-5 tally with Hunter Gibson in the circle providing rocksolid pitching, a smothering defense and clutch hitting including Kyla Brown and Stevee McMillan at the plate. In the opening round of the Class A tournament, Wister, ranked #5 in the final polls blanked #4 Cyril 5-0 and then shutout #11 Frontier 4-0 to advance to the championship game. Binger-Oney would

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NOVEMBER 2015

spoil the Cinderella dreams of the Lady Wildcats with a 5-3 win in the finals as Wister closed the year with a 31-10 campaign.

In Class 6A, Muskogee reached the final eight team bracket by winning their regional in a come-from-behind fashion as the Lady Roughers lost their first game before coming back through the consolation bracket to oust the east side top seed Owasso. Muskogee’s trip to ASA Stadium was short lived as Moore eliminated the Lady Roughers in the first round 11-1. The bracket in Class 4A included second ranked Hilldale and last year’s state runner-up Ft. Gibson. Darren Riddle’s Lady Hornets dropped an 11-1 first round decision to Tuttle while Jamie Snyder’s lineup of Lady Tigers were ousted in the opening round 3-0 by Class 4A runnerup Tecumseh.

Class 3A included #6 ranked Beggs along with #10 Heavener and #2 ranked Se-

quoyah Tahlequah. The Lady Indians of coach Jeff Turtle ousted Heavener 13-3 in round one before falling to Verdigris in the semifinals 6-4 after the Cardinals had eliminated Beggs in game one. Heavener, with a combined 3.85 team GPA, were honored as Class 3A Academic State Champions. Pocola’s Lady Indians used a regional tournament title to advance to the Class 2A state tournament before being eliminated in round one 5-0 by the eventual state champion Tushka Lady Tigers. STATE CHAMPIONS Class 6A: Choctaw Class 5A: Collinsville Class 4A: Chickasha Class 3A: Washington Class 2A: Tushka Class A: Binger-Oney Class B: Red Oak

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During the Class A fastpitch playoffs, the Lady Wildcats virtually shutout their opponents all the way to the championship game as Wister outscored their nine playoff opponents 75-5 including not allowing a single run until the Class A state finals. On the season, coach Kristie Morgan’s lineup recorded a 31-10 mark that included a total of 18 shutout victories. “These girls put all the pieces together with solid pitching, suffocating defense and the ability to score runs in bunches,” said Morgan. “They worked hard every day with a determined focus to reaching the championship game and playing for it all with a unified team spirit. With only two seniors, Kyla Brown and Sooner Vanhook, Wister will no doubt be poised to strike again next season. Members of the Class A State Runner-Up team include: 3 Kyla Brown – Catcher 4 Kati Patterson – Shortstop 8 Hunter Gibson – Pitcher 9 Cailey Yochum – First Base 10 Sooner Vanhook – Second Base 11 Larissa Deaton – Outfield 12 Paityn Weaver – Outfield 15 Justyn Lynn – Third Base 17 Roni Jo Martin – Infield 25 Ally Davis – Catcher 28 Baily Baldwin – Outfield 30 Tristin Hagelberger – Right Field 33 Stevee McMillin – Left Field 44 Kim Carpenter – Infield Head Coach: Kristie Morgan

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GAME PLAN FOR LIFE

Tahlequah’s Kane Teague Tackles Learning Opportunities On and Off the Field opportunities for tomorrow.

As the starting linebacker for the Tigers football team, Kane Teague enjoys the contact of playing the game of football with a passion for heavy hitting. And, for the Tahlequah High School senior currently enrolled in the Heavy Equipment Operation Program available at Indian Capital Technology Center in Tahlequah, Teague doubles his pleasure through learning a game plan for the future. As one of the 30 students, Teague participates in one of only two programs of its kind available in Oklahoma approaching his learning opportunity in the same fashion as preparing for the Tigers next game. “It’s the perfect match for me,” said Kane noting his enjoyment of learning by doing things hands on. “In football, I enjoy practice and game time a lot more than film study and the same is true for me here because we get to experience things in a game like situation by operating the equipment and completing a job.” The head coach, or program director of the Heavy Equipment Operations campaign at ICTC, Andrew Pilcher confirms his students gain real life experiences that create job

“Our students get the foundation for developing their futures as we teach the basics through learning how to operate the heavy equipment and complete job assignments including how to dig footings for houses while operating backhoes and excavators as well as building pads with bulldozers.”

A program with a heavy financial investment in equipment alone, Teague values the basics learned at ICTC. “We started with safety and then learned maintenance of the equipment just like you have to learn your assignments before you play the game,” Teague said with a smile. “Then when we leave the locker room (classroom) it’s time to go to work. The power of operating the heavy equipment and learning how to move the dirt in the right spot is just like making the tackle to stop the opponents at the goal line to get the win.”

his hard work. Kane’s a go-getter that has what it takes to be more than just a good operator of the equipment. He wants to be the best and he’s using our program to take advantage of learning how to do things right the first time.” Teague is one of thirty students currently enrolled in the Heavy Equipment Operations program in Tahlequah in what Pilcher describes as a unique opportunity to open doors to tomorrow.

“Every student walks through the door eager to get on the equipment,” said Pilcher. “And when they complete the program, they’ll be ready to go to work and be one step ahead of the guy working next to them.” It’s an advantage that Kane Teague and students at Indian Capital Technology Center gain through learning by doing.

A 16-year self-taught veteran of heavy equipment operations, Pilcher commends Teague’s approach to learning how to do things right.

“Kane has been all over it since day one,” said Tilcher. “He proves his desire through his efforts to learn including

Careers Start Here Indian Capital Technology Center Muskogee: 800-375-8324

Full Time | Short Term | Online | Business & Industry Services

Sallisaw: 800-340-9119

Stilwell: 866-696-3111

Tahlequah: 800-340-2594

www.ictctech.com

NOVEMBER 2015

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DUNN COUNTRY Athletes of the Month

Stigler Panthers

Stigler’s return to the Class 3A football playoffs is led by the efforts of a three-pronged attack as three seniors Trace Jackson, Shayne Quick and Quontez Jim are all two-way starters that continue to set the tone for Stigler victories. Trace Jackson (5-10, 175, Sr.), who missed last year due to and ACL injury, has made his return to the gridiron in dramatic fashion as one of Class 3A’s scoring leaders with 22 touchdowns heading into the final week of the regular season in addition to his aggressive style and quickness when playing in the defensive backfield. Shayne Quick (6-0, 170, Sr.) lives up to his last name using his explosiveness to once again be Stigler’s leading receiver. Described by coach Chris Risenhoover as the “go-to-guy”, Quick continue to extend scoring drives. Additionally, Quick is defined as a “lockdown cover” cornerback who takes away the opponents best receiver each week. Quontez Jim (6-1, 215, Sr.) makes his presence known whether lining up as a tight end with sure hands or delivering a bone-jarring tackle from his linebacker position. With his physical approach to every snap, Jim consistently wins the battle on both sides of the game while adding an invaluable boost to the game plan with kickoffs that reach the end zone 70% of the time. Trace Jackson, Shayne Quick and Quontez Jim – this month’s Dunn Country Athletes of the Month.

QUONTEZ JIM – TRACE JACKSON – SHAYNE QUICK

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Cross Country Recap DAISY THREE-PEATS AND ZACH SMACKS THE FIELD the medal stand at the OSSAA Cross Country Championships.

Van Meter’s time of 11:39 was 34 seconds ahead of the field in the Class 3A girls event as the Henryetta senior repeated her gold medal performance of last two years. Warner junior Kailey Kilpatrick paced the Lady Eagles bid to win the Class 2A team title before landing in second place behind the team champion efforts of Cordell.

Cody Christie WARNER GIRLS AND TAHLEQUAH BOYS CLAIM SILVER AS SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH EARNS BRONZE Gold medals brought plenty of reasons to smile for Henryetta’s Daisy VanMeter and Zach Black of Sallisaw as the pair ran their way to the top of

Joshua Dick

The best of the best runners in Class 4A went to Sallisaw’s Zach Black who used a strong finishing kick to break the tape in a time of 15:46 to outpace the field by 14 seconds to win the 4A boys cross country gold medal. Sequoyah-Tahlequah’s Cody Christie led the Indians to a 3A boys regional title and help his team finish in third place among the Class 3A boys competition at the OSSAA state meet in Shawnee.

In the Class 5A championships, Tahlequah’s boys team paced by a third place finish by Joshua Dick (16:43.1) claimed the state runner-up title behind Guymon. Stilwell’s Patrick Harris time of 16:31 earned the second place silver medal. Tahlequah’s girls team finished 12th overall as Gracie Medellin was the Lady Tigers top finisher in

Kailey Kilpatrick

eighth place.

CROSS COUNTRY STATE CHAMPIONS CLASS 2A: CORDELL (G) HOOKER (B)

CLASS 3A: MARIETTA (G) MARIETTA (B) CLASS 4A: METRO CHRISTIAN (G) LINCOLN CHRISTIAN (B)

CLASS 5A: CLAREMORE (G) GUYMON (B)

CLASS 6A: BARTLESVILLE (G) JENKS (B)

Daisy VanMeter

Zach Black NOVEMBER 2015

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F E AT U R E

THREE RIVERS CHEERLEADING FAST-PITCH TORI EASTON – POCOLA SOFTBALL MALORY LYNCH – HEAVENER FIRST TEAM: KAITLYN MORRIS – POTEAU JORDAN LOWRIMORE – POTEAU KEELEY CARSELLO – POTEAU ASHLEE BASQUEZ – PRESTON KENDALL PEREZ – HENRYETTA SIERRA COX – KEYS MICHAELA EVANS – SALLISAW ALLI GEORGE – TAHLEQUAH ANNA WHITE – FORT GIBSON ASHTYN FRIX – FORT GIBSON MADISON HUFF – SALLISAW TRISTEN ROACH – WARNER KYLEE SCRAPPER – WARNER PAYTON JACKSON – WARNER SHYLA HARRELL – CHECOTAH SIERRA ADAMS – EUFAULA BAYLEE SADLER – MORRIS STORMY WILLIAMS – BEGGS MESA ADAMS – PORUM WENDI MCCURRY – STIGLER KAYTIE BELL – VIAN MOLLY COOPER – MUSKOGEE AVERY SMITH – MUSKOGEE IZABEL TINOCO – OKEMAH JACEY COATES – WESTVILLE M’LYAH LITTLEJOHN – OKMULGEE

Shyla Harrell Checotah

Alli George Tahlequah

Hayleigh Galvan Sequoyah Tahlequah 14

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PITCHER: MADISON HIGLEY – FT. GIBSON HUNTER GIBSON – WISTER ASHTIN BARNOSKI – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH ELIXIS WATSON – MUSKOGEE CATCHER: PAYTON STROUD – WAGONER TINA BUFORD – HULBERT INFIELDER: HAYLEIGH GALVAN – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH CARLEE GANN – MUSKOGEE JODIE HILL – HEAVENER EMILEE RIGSBY – FORT GIBSON ASHLYN RILEY – HULBERT AUBREY JOHNSON – MUSKOGEE TAIAH SANDERS – BEGGS SYMPHONI SHOMO – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH KORTNEY DRY – TAHLEQUAH OUTFIELD: LINDSAY WADE – TAHLEQUAH SHEA LYNCH – OKTAHA KENZIE MIZE – HILLDALE STEVEE MCMILLIN – WISTER UTILITY: MCKENSIE PLANT – HILLDALE JACEE MANLEY – HEAVENER CYLLA HILL – MORRIS NATALIE PHELPS – BEGGS

Carlee Gann Muskogee

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J U LY

2011

SECOND TEAM: PITCHER: KYLIE BUTLER – HILLDALE BRITTANY BEAUDET – MORRIS LINDSI SPRING – BEGGS KATIE MEDLIN – HULBERT CATCHER: KYLA BROWN – WISTER MERISSA SMITH – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH

INFIELDER: DELEIGH EMARTHLE – MUSKOGEE AUBREE BELL – FORT GIBSON PAYTON JACKSON – WARNER EMILY CABLE – PORUM EMILY DAVIDSON – CHECOTAH OUTFIELDER: ADDISON ELBON – VIAN JENTRY BROWN – HOWE UTILITY: LINDSEY DREADFULWATER – HULBERT ABBIE HENNING – WAGONER CHEYENNE MARSHALL - PORTER HONORABLE MENTION: SAMMIE KUHNS – POCOLA MADISON GILMORE – STIGLER ERIN GRAY – EUFAULA BAYLEE PRICE – ARKOMA KEIRSTEN HALL – HOWE

JALEI OGLESBY – HOWE CHANDLER JARRARD – WEBBERS FALLS LANEY JAMES – GANS MADELYN HARRIS – KEOTA KENNEDI MATHIS – PORTER

FALL SPORTS CROSS COUNTY GIRLS

KAILEY KILPATRICK – WARNER BRITNEY HAMMANS – WARNER JESSICA DUERSON – WARNER MICKAYLA LAWSON – WARNER BECKY KAUFFMAN – WARNER LESSLEY DAVIS – WARNER JESSICA KAUFFMAN - WARNER DAISY VAN METER – HENRYETTA MYKALA RICH – VIAN MYA POWER – HENRYETTA BARBARA JOHNSON – HEAVENER KYLA HOLMES – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH MAGGIE McKINNIS – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH ADDISON BACKWATER – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH MORGAN BEAN – OKEMAH KANDACE STANDRIDGE – POTEAU TIFFANY JONES – SALLISAW AURI SPARKS – SALLISAW FAITH FLETCHER – STILWELL GRACIE MEDELLIN – TAHLEQUAH MADISON REED – TAHLEQUAH ROSALIA PROVENZANO – TAHLEQUAH DAISY VAN METER – HENRYETTA

McKenzie Plant Hilldale

BOYS ZACH BLACK – SALLISAW TODD BROWN – WAGONER GRANT BROWN – WAGONER CODY CHRISTIE – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH JERRY LOGSDON – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH GAGE GIRTY – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH TROY HARDBARGER – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH PRESLEY HAIR – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH MASON MARTIN – HENRYETTA JAYDEN WATKINS – OKMULGEE KOLTON LYNN – WISTER CLAYTON KILPATRICK – WARNER KIRK WASHINGTON – OKTAHA AUSTIN BROWN – CENTRAL SALLISAW PATRICK HARRIS – STILWELL JOSHUA DICK – TAHLEQUAH MICHAEL SPEARS – TAHLEQUAH BERNABE MIRANDA – TAHLEQUAH BRAXTON HOOD – TAHLEQUAH SETH MARTIN – TAHLEQUAH GUILLERMO AMADOR – TAHLEQUAH ELIJAH DOWNS-GOUGE - TAHLEQUAH

VOLLEYBALL

CLAIRE FARMER – MUSKOGEE ABBY WAYMAN – MUSKOGEE WREN SEABOLT – MUSKOGEE CIERRA LEWIS – MUSKOGEE AMANDA MILNICK – TAHLEQUAH ALLI GEORGE – TAHLEQUAH CAMMIE COPELAND – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH SKYLER SMOKER – SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH SUMMER MILLIGAN – OKAY KIRSTEN ANDERSON – OKAY KARLEIGH MCMAHAN – OKAY AUBRI THOMPSON – WAGONER MAKAYLA BAKER – WESTVILLE KAITLYNN HARBISON – INOLA

Claire Farmer Muskogee

Cammie Copeland

Wren Seabolt Muskogee

Makayla Baker Westville

Sequoyah Tahlequah

Madison Higley Fort Gibson

Kandace Standridge Poteau

Patrick Harris Stilwell

Cody Christie Sequoyah Tahlequah

Kailey Kilpatrick Warner

Daisy VanMeter Henryetta

Zach Black NOVEMBER 2015

Sallisaw |

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CONGRATULATIONS DAISY VANMETER! HENRYETTA KNIGHTS Class 3A Cross Country State Champion

2001 N York St • Muskogee, OK 74403 • (918) 687-6569

www.yorkstreettire.com

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LADY IRONHEADS SEEK TO CLAIM “ONE SHINING MOMENT” As 2015-2016 basketball seasons begin, the Lady Ironheads have a reason to expect success on the hardwood as head coach Laura Gragg’s two-year plan comes full circle. After a 16-10 record last year, the Lady Ironheads welcome a roster loaded with talent led by VYPE Top 100 choice Erin Gray (5-7, Jr.). The basketball savvy playmaking guard, who has already received three D-I scholarship offers, topped the scoring charts averaging 17.7 points per contest while adding three-plus statistics including rebounds, assists and steals. Joined by Aryn Holybee (5-7, Jr.), Garren Yandell (5-7, Sr.) and BA Reeb (5-7, Jr.), depth abounds

on the perimeter while Eufaula will create multiple challenges inside as Jessie Gott (58, Sr.), who totaled 15.0 points per game joins Savannah Kerr (5-8, Jr.) and the intimidating presence of Macayla Needham (6-1, Fr.) and Rachil Needham (5-8, Sr.) defend the paint. “We return all five starters plus other players with playing time experience that understand how to live out our team motto, GUTS,” notes Gragg, who enters her third season as head coach. “With Erin at guard plus the leadership of our seniors and the addition of three 6-foot freshmen, we’ve got high expectations.”

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…THE MORE THEY STAY THE SAME Entering his 34th season as head coach of the Eufaula boys basketball team, Bradley Campbell has seen his teams play a variety of ways resulting in success. And, as the new

season begins, the veteran coach of the Ironheads notes the style of play for this year’s team will have a new look and matched to the talents of the lineup. “Graduating four seniors from our starting lineup has resulted in a revised style that will be more up tempo,” said Campbell. “We’ll be senior laden and that’s a benefit especially when it comes to team leadership.” The Ironheads depth will no doubt be at guard with two seniors, Michael Clover (5-7, Sr.) and Austin Wegner (5-11, Sr.) expected to take the lead. Adding to the perimeter scoring and fast paced play will be Logan Ames (60, Jr.), Dylan Anderson (6-2, So.) and John Bailey (6-0, Fr.). Armstrong will look for Marvin Phillips (6-0, Sr.), Miles Caldwell (6-2, Sr.), Kaimen Stremmel (6-3, Jr.) and Logan Credemeyer (6-1, Fr.) for points on the front line as well as a team focused effort to crash the boards for rebounding strength. “Effort is a plus for our squad as our experience develops,” said Armstrong, “and in most cases, effort is what wins night in night out.”

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SALLISAW BLACK DIAMONDS Nothing Brighter...Nothing Finer

LADY DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH…NOT SO FAST MY FRIEND Head coach Athena McCoy begins her fourth season on the bench at her alma mater with a lineup of high expectations. Sallisaw returns three starters from last year’s 15-10 season including Taten Hyde (5-9, Jr.) who average 13.3 points and 7.2 rebounds per game along with Kirsten Hamilton (5-6, Sr.) and Calley Covington (5-4, Jr.). Adding to the experience pool of talent is the return of Hanna Wiley (5-8, Sr.) who saw game time action during her sophomore and freshman seasons. And despite having a roster that includes nine freshmen, McCoy’s outlook is more than just optimistic about this year’s game plan that will be uptempo. “Taten understands our system and her 45% shooting average is a major contribution,” said McCoy. “With Kirsten, Calley and Hanna on the court, I’m confident of their leadership with the younger players to make an impact. We’re going to play up tempo and get after people.” BLACK DIAMONDS EXPERIENCE TO MATCH EXPECTATIONS What a difference a year makes for the Black Diamonds basketball fortunes as head coach James Youngblood begins his second season on the bench as head coach. With the roster including five seniors entering their third year in the player rotation, the glimmer of victories for Sallisaw is shining bright.

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“We had a solid summer solidifying our system,” notes Youngblood. “The off-season has us eager to get after it.” Youngblood expects another major contribution from Trinton Morris (6-2, Sr.) who delivered double-double productivity last season including 15.3 points and 10.0 rebounds per game. Making his presence in the paint will be Kyle Glander (6-6, Sr.) who delivered 7.5 rebounds while scoring 10.4 points with a consistent 42% shooting touch. Adding to the Black Diamonds expectations to control the backboards will be Trey Philpot (6-2, Sr.) as a power forward along with Eddie Ruark (6-5, Jr.). Sallisaw’s perimeter scoring will also rely upon the contributions of Dalton Jasna (6-1, Sr.), Tyler Crawford (6-1, Sr.) and Luke Capehart (6-4, Jr.). “These kids know how to compete and aren’t going to back down,” said Youngblood. “We want to get up and down the floor, crash the glass and then adjust our lineup to create mismatches, inside or out.” The Black Diamonds tip of their 2015-2016 season on the road December 1 against Elkins Ark.

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WARNER EAGLES ‘Flying High’ LADY EAGLES TAKE FLIGHT TO SUCCESS Ready to prove that experience creates opportunity, girls’ basketball at Warner is ready to tip-off this season with a roster that has scoring ability plus experience in a variety of positions. “We’re a more experienced squad, top to bottom,” said head coach Mindi Peters. “The lessons learned last season have us ready to charge into this year with more depth, especially at guard.” All five starters return to the hardwood including a trio of guards consisting of Chelsea Anderson (5-3, Jr.), who recorded 4.1 assists and 3.2 assists while scoring 12.1 points per game last season, joining Britney Hammans (5-9, Jr.), who brings back 7.7 points and 6.9 rebound production to the lineup along with Lauren Wardlow (5-6, So.), who averaged 6.2 points per game as a freshman. Kaylee Mathews (6-1, Sr.) gives a solid presence inside for the Lady Eagles. Last season, Mathews just missed a double-double season averaging 13.9

points and 9.7 rebounds per game. Cheyenne Miller (5-8, Jr.) and Triston Potts (5-10, Jr.) will help to solidify play in the paint. “With our depth at guard, our team will be quicker and able to maintain constant pressure end-to-end throughout the game,” said Peters.

Bliss will rely upon senior leadership from Kelton Wiggins (6-2, Sr.), Kayden Hammans (5-9, Sr.), Mekko Washington (6-1, Sr.), Tristen Vandaley (5-7, Sr.) and Bobby Ward (6-0, Sr.) to provide a sparkplug of energy. Ward averaged 5.2 points per game and Hammans 3.4 points per game last season at guard. Bliss will also look to added production from the only returning starter Clayton Kilpatrick (6-2, Jr.), who chipped in 4.1 points and 3.2 rebounds per game a year ago, along with Jayce McPeak (6-1, Jr.), Hunter Crawley (5-9, Jr.) and Dawson Neighbors (6-0, Fr.). “We’re playing with a more physical and aggressive approach,” said Bliss.

EAGLES EFFORT PROVIDES HIGH EXPECTATIONS Despite the loss of four returning starters, the Eagles prepare to leave the nest with a roster filled with players determined to make opponents take notice. Coming off a 16-13 campaign, James Bliss enters his 12th season on the bench as head coach with an understanding of what’s ahead this The basketball season begins December season. 1st at home against Quinton. “We’ve been here before,” said Bliss referencing the graduation losses creating opportunities for this year’s lineup. “Despite the lack of game-time experience, the kids’ efforts in practice to be competitive are proof that nothing can substitute for hard work.”

DESTINATION BIG HOUSE After reaching the state basketball tournament for the first time in girls’ basketball history at Vian, Jordan Garner’s squad is on a mission to insure that history will repeat itself with an athletic and aggressive roster filled with talent. The Lady Wolverines’ balanced scoring and depth of playmakers at every position make Vian hard to beat. A four-year starter, Desiree Moon (5-5, Sr.) returns to her familiar role at point guard after being chosen to the All- VYPE Class 3A preseason team. Moon, who averaged 13.6 points and 3.8 rebounds, will once again join Jennifer Hunter (5-6, Sr.) who added 8.3 points per game in Vian’s up-tempo attack, along with Addie Elbon (5-6, Jr.) at guard to push the pace of play. With a trio of players standing 5-10 or taller, Vian can attack the glass and score on the blocks as Jasmine Evans (5-11, Sr.), Dia Jackson (5-11, So.) and Hanna Vickers (5-10, Jr.) bring an aggressive attack on both ends of the court. Adding to the depth of the roster

will be Jordan Sovo (5-5, Sr.), Kera Glass (5-9, So.) and Alex Porter (5-6, Sr.). “There’s no denying last year’s trip to OKC has carried over to our offseason work creating extremely hard practices,” said Garner. “Our seniors understand what’s needed to make a return trip to the Big House and the younger kids have bought in. The combination of talent and teamwork makes this season very exciting.”

THERE’S QUICK…THEN THERE’S WOLVERINES The combination of quickness in all positions along with a group of players who understand coach Anthony Porter’s game plan creates an air optimism among the camp of the Wolverines’ boys basketball team. Terron Moses (5-8 Jr.), who averaged 5.5 points while dishing our 3-plus assists, will transfer his cat-quick speed from the football field to the basketball court and team up with Kaleb Glass (5-10, So.) as the leaders of Vian’s starting guards while

Javier Ramos (6-4, So.) who totaled 6.3 points and 5.0 rebounds last season as a freshman, creates scoring chances from the perimeter as well as backing down in the paint while Coby Ward (6-2, Sr.) and Darquais Lyke join the front line. “Javier can score from three and has developed his game on the bounce to the rim,” said Porter, who begins his 6th year on the bench as head coach. “Terron and Kaleb will not only score but are very aggressive with their defensive efforts and combined with their quickness will create turnovers that turn into break away baskets.” Also expected to make valuable contributions will be Josh Bolin (6-1, Jr.), Antonio Lyke (5-10, Jr.) and Tyrus Wells (6-1, So.). “Our kids understand their roles,” said Porter, “and they know it’s not how good you are but it’s how good you want to be that will create winning opportunities this year.”

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Moments after heading to cheer for the Wolverine, VYPE caught up with Natalie Bobbitt of Vian High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to the cheerleading coach at Vian, Mona Bennett for her answers and then presented the challenge to Natalie’s friend and Vian cheerleader, Jade Jumper. Coach or teammate – who has the best score? A senior member of the Vian cheer team that captured a third place finish at the OSSAA Cheerleading Championships, Natalie Bobbitt is an ever-smiling, high energy fan of the Wolverines. Proud of her Native American heritage, Bobbitt is a member of the Cherokee Club as well as a member of the National Honor Society while maintaining a 3.8 GPA. Known as creeper on Netflix whose favorite movie is “Legions of the Fall”, Bobbitt also admits her love for shopping plus an appreciation for classical music. Following high school, Natalie Bobbitt Bobbitt’s plans to pursue a career in Nursing. Vian Cheer

Vian Cheer Coach

Jade Jumper Vian Cheer

Natalie’s favorite subject in school?

History

English

History

Favorite Food?

Chicken Parmesan

Something Natalie will NOT eat?

Ranch Dressing

Carrots

Ranch Dressing

Natalie’s Dream Date?

Brad Pitt

Channing Tatum

Brad Pitt

What is Natalie’s favorite color?

Peacock Blue

Any shade of blue

Blue

Natalie’s homework is on time, last minute or always late?

On Time

If stranded on a deserted island, what one thing would Natalie take with her?

Bible

Rayne Cloud

Her iPad

Natalie’s Guilty Pleasure?

All You Can Eat Chocolate

Chocolate (Lots of It!)

Shop til she drops (On Grandma’s Credit Card)

Dream Job?

Movie Director in Hollywood

Movie Actress

If only for 1 day, Natalie would want to be?

Kate Middleton

Katy Perry

Carrie Underwood

4 out of 10 (Nice Try Coach!)

6 out of 10 (Friends know Friends)

TOTAL POINTS: 10

Mona Bennett

VYPEOK.COM

NOVEMBER 2015

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THREE RIVERS OKLAHOMA TOP 100 VYPE TOP 100 presented by Shelter Insurance includes fourteen of Oklahoma’s best players from the Three Rivers area and will compete to earn the title Shelter Insurance Mr. and Miss Basketball Oklahoma. Follow them @VYPEOK on twitter and keep up with their season at #VYPETop100 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.”

Koby Goodman Preston Pirates Jr. 6-5 Center @tootallgoodman Did you know: Koby would like to study Civil Engineering in college. College: Koby is being recruited by the University of Dallas. Quote: “Before every game I look at all the banners on the wall.”

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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.” NOVEMBER 2015

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.” 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.”

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.”

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.”

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.” 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.” 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.”

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.”

Presented by

As the chase for the gold ball begins high school basketball teams have earned the right to be named to the VYPE Fab 5 Preseason Rankings. No doubt the action during the year may change the polls, VYPE has tabbed our selections for which girls and boys teams will finish the season as state champions. Class 6A Girls 1. Muskogee 2. Broken Arrow 3. Choctaw 4. Sapulpa 5. Edmond Santa Fe

Class 4A Girls 1. Anadarko 2. Newcastle 3. Harrah 4. Fort Gibson 5. Chickasha

Class 2A Girls 1. Preston 2. Dale 3. Fairview 4. Cashion 5. Howe

Class B Girls 1. Lomega 2. Coyle 3. Forgan 4. Red Oak 5. Burlington

Class 6A Boys 1. Mustang 2. Union 3. Norman North 4. Edmond Memorial 5. Putnam City West

Others : 6. Hilldale 11. Roland

Others : 18. Okemah 20. Oktaha

Others : 17. Pittsburg 19. LeFlore

Class 4A Boys 1. Tulsa Central 2. Harrah 3. Tulsa McLain 4. Tulsa Webster 5. OC Douglass

Class 2A Boys 1. Preston 2. Wewoka 3. Kiefer 4. Talihina 5. Merritt

Class B Boys 1. Red Oak 2. Forgan 3. Chattanooga 4. Leedey 5. Hammon

Others : 13. Fort Gibson 14. Stilwell 20. Okmulgee

Others : 9. Hulbert 10. Howe 13. Okemah 14. Central Sallisaw 15. Haskell

Others : 9. LeFlore

Others : 17. Muskogee Class 5A Girls 1. Collinsville 2. Piedmont 3. East Central 4. Woodward 5. Edison Class 5A Boys 1. Lawton Ike 2. Tulsa Memorial 3. Coweta 4. Carl Albert 5. Ardmore

Class 3A Girls 1. Sequoyah-Tahlequah 2. Alva 3. Chisholm 4. Washington 5. Adair Others : 7. Vian 12. Beggs 17. Eufaula Class 3A Boys 1. Heritage Hall 2. Centennial 3. Verdigris 4. Atoka 5. Sequoyah-Tahlequah Others : 10. Spiro

Class A Girls 1. Okarche 2. Pond Creek-Hunter 3. Seiling 4. Glencoe 5.Frontier Class A Boys 1. Fort Cobb-Broxton 2. Glencoe 3. Okay 4. Pond Creek-Hunter 5. Hollis

NOVEMBER 2015

VYPEOK.COM

Muskogee Preview

GOLD…BALL…NOTHING ELSE MATTERS

MUSKOGEE BASKETBALL HAS ONLY ONE GOAL AS A GAME PLAN FOR SUCCESS The future is now for the Muskogee basketball program as Lady Roughers and Roughers have a game plan that will no doubt provide plenty to cheer about for the Rougher Nation.

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. Four starters return including a trio of Division I level players joining highly skilled proven performers off the bench to set the stage for coach Doyle Rowland’s collection of talent to make a championship run in Class 6A. Aaliyah Wilson (5-11,

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NOVEMBER 2015

Sr.), who averaged 19.3 points and 9.1 rebounds joins Jada Ford (5-9, Sr.), who led the scoring with 19.5 points per game including 61 three-point baskets, and dynamic Trena Mims (5-6, Jr.) who totaled 61 assists while averaging 11.2 points per game lead the hopes of the Lady Roughers. Leigh Westbrook (5-8, Sr.) also returns to the starting unit while coach Doyle Rowland’s squad plays with athleticism and pressure with Zomaree McNac (5-9, Sr.), Brandi Nash (5-10, Sr.) and Fort Gibson transfer Aaliyah Daily-Lee (510, Sr.) providing power in the blocks while Taylor Osborn (5-6, Jr.), Dia Brown (5-5, Jr.) and Chrisalee Patterson (5-7, Jr.) bring added talent of the bench. Is this the year that Muskogee sheds the tag as the “best team never to win a championship”? “We’ve been so close and now it’s time to get it done,” said Rowland referencing an overtime loss in the 2015 state finals. “This time our goal is simple, win the gold ball.” While the attention is focused on the success of the girls’ program, coach Joshua Berry nods his head in affirmation when questioned about opportunities for success for the Roughers this season.

“Don’t wake a sleeping dog,” smiled Berry, who enters

perimeter playmaking talent will be Tyreece Berry (5-10, Jr.) who outside shooting touch will require focus from the Roughers’ opponents along with Roger Lewis (6-0, Sr.) who averaged 9.1 points and 5.0 rebounds that Berry touts for his defensive skills. Quintevin Cherry (6-3, Fr.) will add a big guard with touch to the rotation of players.

his fourth season at the helm of the Muskogee camp. “Our roster allows us to play a variety of ways and play with an air of confidence.” VYPE Top 100 selection Tavian Davis (6-1, Sr.), who verbally committed to Rogers State earlier this year, will be counted upon to equal his 13 points and 4.2 rebound totals from last season. The heartbeat of Muskogee’s lineup will be three year starting guard Quintahj Cherry (6-0, Sr.), who has averaged 43% from three-point range for his career. Adding to the

“Our collection of guards gives us depth and a variety of ways to score,” said Berry noting the Roughers ability to connect from beyond the arc as well as on the bounce to the rim.

Muskogee can pose problems inside with Clarence Parks (6-6, So.), Keondre Davis (66,Jr.) joining Raishaun Marshall (6-5, Sr.) on the front line.

“C-P is a very talented player and Bruiser, who weighs 275 pounds, can step out and hit a three as well as attack the rim,” said Berry. “Bones is long and lean and can defend any position on the court.”

NOVEMBER 2015

VYPEOK.COM

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

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NOVEMBER 2015

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.

Tahlequah Preview We Are TIGERS…Hear Us ROAR

As coach Ricky Bruner enters his second season, the Tahlequah Tigers lineup gives the head coach plenty of reasons for optimism.

“The dedication of our players to restore the roar of Tigers basketball is evident by their work ethic leading into this season,” said Bruner. “We’re returning players that have been to battle together before and are ready to win the war this time.”

Tahlequah’s front line will present their opponents cause for concern as Stone Faddis (6-7, Sr.), who totaled 7.4 points and 9.3 rebounds as a junior, and Tyler Miller (6-6, Sr.), who averaged 5.5 rebounds last year, create a twin towers presence in the paint. “Stone is long and can change an opponents’ shot selection with his shot blocking skills,” said Bruner noting that Faddis averaged three plus blocked shots per game last season. “He can set the tone defensively as well as score on the block.”

The energy of the Tigers will be Clint Kelly (6-0, Jr.) who averaged 9.5 points while dishing out 3.4 assists with 3.0 rebounds from his point guard position during his sophomore season. “Clint understands how to create,” said Bruner. “His

ability to catch fire shooting reinforces his confidence in all aspects of the game. Clint has the ability to be one of the best shooter in the state and perhaps the best since Luke Dobbins wore the Tigers uniform.” Adding to the excitement in the Tigers’ camp is the play of Coleman Craig (6-0, Sr.), Evan Gurule (6-0, Jr.) and Jace Luna (5-10, Jr.).

As the season begins for the Lady Tigers, David Qualls returns to his alma mater to take the reins of restoring the pride to the Tahlequah girls program. The first year head coach is welcomed to the court by a veteran competitor as Lindsay Wade (5-6, Sr.) enters begins her third season in the starting lineup after averaging 10.3 points per game last season. “Lindsay will be our coach on the court,” said Qualls. “Her decision making matches her ability to put points on the scoreboard.” Qualls will also have Sierra L. Smith (5-9, So.) and Jaylee Duffield (5-4, Sr.) who return to the Lady Tigers lineup. Smith contributed 6.4 points and 5.0 rebounds while Duffield totaled 7.2 points per game a year ago. Members of the always touch Metro Lakes Conference, Qualls is aware of the road ahead.

“We’re extremely young with over 80% of our roster consisting of sophomores and freshmen,” said Qualls. “But we have the three returning veterans and talented kids ready to make a difference. How quickly we can mature as a group will be the keys to opening the lock for wins this season.” NOVEMBER 2015

VYPEOK.COM

Checotah Preview BEWARE OF THE WILDCATS

player rotation capable of playing at a fast pace with the ability to create mismatches in a variety of ways.

With four starters returning to the court form last season’s 11-14 campaign, Checotah has proven talent including point guard Jariel Hughes (6-3, Sr.) who Dowdy expects to have a breakout campaign after averaging 7.8 points and 3.3 rebounds while dishing out 3.0 assists a year ago. Drew Dan (6-4, Sr.) brings a wealth of athleticism along with his 8.2 points and 5.5 rebound numbers for last season along with Kaleb Jackson (6-1, Jr.) and Kaleb King (5-11, Sr.). “Drew is a difference maker in a so many ways and Jariel has put in the time to take his game to a higher level,” said Dowdy. LADY ‘CATS READY TO MAKE SOME NOISE The 2015-2016 basketball season is filled with opportunity for the Checotah Lady Wildcats with a new sheriff in town as Jim Glover, a 24-year veteran of coaching boys basketball enters his first season coaching the girls game. “It’s still basketball and we’re still going to get up and down the court as fast as we can,” said Glover whose previous boys teams while at Oktaha played with a furious pace.

Glover enters the Lady ‘Cats system welcomed by three returning starters including Jazzlyn Dandridge (5-5, Sr.), Hayley Stevens (5-7, Jr.) and Taryn Dan (5-6, Jr.). Adding to Glover’s expectations for success on the hardwood will be Kiah Hill (5-3, Sr.), Shelby Read (59, Jr.), Alyssa Brown (5-6, So.), Jaycee Buckmaster (5-11, Jr.), Autumn Thornton (5-5, Jr.), Lennes Miller (5-7, So.), Aubrey Cooper (5-10, So.), Karissa Casey (5-3, So.) plus the addition of two freshmen Jessica Smith (5-3, Fr.) and Sara Matthews (5-5, Fr.). “Anytime you get a new coach, teams get a new game plan and start from zero,” admits Glover. “I’m expecting our balance and depth of players we can put on the court and make a difference to create success as the season moves along.” THESE ‘CATS HAVE NINE LIVES

Entering his eighth season on the bench as head coach at Checotah, Jason Dowdy expects this year’s lineup to provide basketball fans of the Wildcats plenty to cheer about with a nine

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NOVEMBER 2015

A fourth senior, Chase Turney (5-10, Sr.) along with Tucker Frame (5-10, Jr.) will add depth to the rotation of guards while Zach Henson (6-5, Jr.) who wears a size 18 shoe, will command space in the paint. Miles Wooten (6-2, So.) and Jalen Fancher (5-7, So.) complete the rotation of players as Dowdy smiles knowing his lineup can go nine lives deep.

“What will surprise our opponents is our length at every position and the ability for any player on the court to secure missed shots on either end of the court. Those rebounds will result in increased points on the scoreboard.”

NOVEMBER 2015

VYPEOK.COM

Fort Gibson Preview Tradition Doesn’t Graduate

remain focused on claiming gold next March.

“We’re a pretty young team but a group that is extremely competitive and athletic,” said Walker, who enters his 21st season as head coach. “And,don’t tell this group of girls they can’t do something unless you want them to prove you wrong.”

Tradition doesn’t graduate especially when it comes to the continued success of the girls and boys basketball teams at Fort Gibson. And as the 2015-2016 season begins for the Tigers, winning remains as the most popular word in their vocabulary. GO-GO-GET‘EM-GET’EM – GO GET’EM GO 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

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NOVEMBER 2015

The players wearing the Lady Tigers uniforms have plenty of talent in a variety of positions. Allie Christie (5-10, Jr.), Kabree Edgmon (5-6, Jr.) Kayci Glover (5-7, So.), Zoe Shieldknight (5-11, So.) along with Alexis Wright (5-8, So.) return proven talents with game time experience from last season’s 25-3 Class 4A state semifinals campaign. Walker’s rotation of players will also include Cailey Cunningham (5-9, Jr.), Carlee Fryar (5-5, Jr.), Aubree Bell 5-8, So.), Laney Swink (55, So.) and Danielle Johnson (6-0, Fr.) giving opposing coaches plenty of headaches when trying to defend the Lady Tigers ability to score from the perimeter as well as attack the paint while continuing a pressure

style defense that creates plenty of points off turnover.

EYE OF THE TIGER SEEING GOLD Despite heavy graduation losses from last year’s 27-2 Class 4A state quarterfinals team, the expectations for success remain for the Tigers of coach Gary Hendrix, who enters his 30th season clutching the Tiger red towel.

“We’re going to start the season young and searching for our identity,” said Hendrix, “but we have the chance to be a pretty good team by the end of the season.”

Standing tall in the middle will be Cole Hamilton (6-8, Sr.) giving the Tigers a threat in the paint along with the rough and rugged style of play from Kyle Dortch (6-2, Jr.), who averaged 7.6 points and 3.4 rebounds coming off the bench last season. Another player with experience under the game time lights will be Austin Gassaway (5-11, Sr.) who joins Rico

Ybarra (6-0, Jr.), who averaged 3.8 points per game last season, in the Tigers guard corps. Jace Shepherd (6-0, Jr.), Scott Garrett (6-3, Sr.), Zack Evans (6-1, Jr.) along with Carson Calavan (5-9, So.), Seth Martin (6-4, So.), Hunter McCroskey (5-9, Jr.), Chris Walker (6-1, Jr.) and Jordan Brown (6-0, Jr.) will add to the depth of this year’s lineup.

NOVEMBER 2015

VYPEOK.COM

Hilldale Preview

THERE’S A BUZZ IN THE HORNETS NEST determination while playing through the pain of a knee injury to average 12.4 points along with 4.0 rebounds, 3.1 assists and one steal per game. “Katie is our leader,” said head coach Scott Hensley, “In practice or a game, she always gives her best effort. “When your most gifted player is will to do that every time, special things are going to happen.”

With the success of the fall sports at Hilldale moving indoors, fans of the Hornets are ready to cheer loud and proud as Hilldale basketball tips off another season poised to sting its opponents night in night out. BACK TO THE BIG HOUSE After reaching the Class 4A girls basketball state tournament for the first time in school history, expectations have skyrocketed as the Lady Hornets return four starters plus a talented supporting cast coming off the bench focused on a return to the final eight teams next March. Hilldale opens the season ranked #6 in the VYPE preseason polls.

A repeat choice as a VYPE Top 100 player, Katie Kirkhart (5-9, Sr.) returns to the starting lineup for a fourth straight season. Kirkhart demonstrated her

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NOVEMBER 2015

McKensie Plant (5-6, Sr.), who averaged 6.1 points and 3.0 rebounds, returns to the rotation of guards along with Madyson Eichling (5-7, Sr.), who made significant contributions during the Lady Hornets flight to the state tournament. Kenzie Mize (5-8, Jr.), who averaged 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds gives Hensley a physical presence on the blocks along with Tyler McMillan (5-9, Jr.), who averaged 4.0 points and 2.4 rebounds last season. Hilldale’s bench strength will once again rely upon Megan Crow (5-5, Jr.), Haley Olson (5-5, Jr.) and Taylor Sanchez (5-5, So.) to boost the guard play while Lacey Bell (5-7, So.) and Mikayla Maxwell (5-10, So.) join the rotation of forwards. “This team thrives on unity and loves to compete,” said Hensley, who enters his fifth season at the helm. “Last year’s success has carried over during the offseason and the competitiveness of this group has our preparations for this season focused and intense. We love to compete. Whether it’s against each other or another team, competition brings out the best in

us. And, hopefully that means another trip to Oklahoma City in March.” BEGINNING AGAIN

Eric Romine’s roster for 2015-2016 will be young but filled with determination to prove their talents on the hardwood. With only one senior, Hilldale begins another flight with a game plan to become another tough team to beat.

As the season begins, Blake Thompson (6-3, Sr.) will be called upon by Romine for senior leadership while Grant Sikes (6-4, Jr.) will be the Hornets only returning starter. Sikes, who averaged 10.7 points and 3.5 rebounds last year, will be joined by Alden Norton (5-10, Jr.), Wyatt Wolfe (5-11, Jr.) and Jeriah Steward (6-2, Jr.) as the key spokes to the wheel of fortune for Hilldale this year. Mikey Winston (5-5, So.), Tre Mitchell (6-0, So.), Adam Potts (5-9, So.) Hunter Dotson (6-6, So.) and Kaden Kerr will figure to become key performers on the varsity level as sophomores. “Despite the fact that we’re young with only one starter and three other players have significant

minutes of game time experience,” said Romine. “We’re aggressively taking on the challenge to find right combinations that will result in wins again this season. The door is open and we have several young newcomers demonstrating their skills ready to take on the challenge of building a successful program.”

NOVEMBER 2015

VYPEOK.COM

Class 4A

What you need to know

GIRLS Anadarko Lady Warriors begin this season as the preseason pick to win Class 4A girls in what promises to be a wide open chase to hoist the Gold Ball on the Arena Floor at the Big House. Even without a senior on their roster, state tournament discussion will always include the Lady Tigers of Fort Gibson (#4). After earning the school’s first ever state tournament bid last year, Scott Hensley’s Hilldale Lady Hornets (#6) along with the Roland Rangers (#10) are among the top ten teams with better than 50-50 chances to win it all next March. Players to Watch 1. Allison Stone – Poteau 5-10 F Sr. 2. Dawnell Vann – Stilwell 6-2 C Jr. 3. Mikiah McDonald – Roland 5-8 Sr. F 4. Allie Christie – Fort Gibson 5-10 Jr. F 5. Kayci Glover – Fort Gibson 5-7 So. G 6. Katie Kirkhart – Hilldale 5-9 Sr. G 7. Kenzie Mize – Hilldale 5-8 Jr. F

The Braves of Tulsa Central enter this year as the odds-on favorite to claim the Class 4A boys crown. Last year’s tournament teams Fort Gibson (#13) replaces its lineup with talents including Kyle Dortch and Cole Hamilton while Stilwell (#14) must find the pieces to complete another successful state tournament puzzle. The Okmulgee Bulldogs (#20) is a qualified sleeper that has the athletic talents, such as Jimell Tate and Colin Skinner to chase a state tournament ticket. Another team that promises to be competitive in Class 4A will be the Longhorns of Inola. Players to Watch 1. Sequoyah Sanders – Poteau 6-3 F Jr. 2. Jariel Hughes – Checotah 6-3 G Sr. 3. Kyle Dortch – Fort Gibson 6-2 F Jr. 4. Cole Hamilton – Fort Gibson 6-8 C Sr. 5. Grant Sikes – Hilldale 6-4 F Jr. 6. Nikia Jones – Wagoner 6-3 F Jr. 7. Trey Reeves – Muldrow 6-5 C Sr. 8. Jimell Tate – Okmulgee 6-1 G Jr. 9. Colin Skinner – Okmulgee 6-0 G Sr. 10. Cass Freeman – Inola 6-1 G Sr.

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Tradition and Champions Sequoyah Tahlequah

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. Also expected to make an impact will be Merrissa Smith, Samantha Sawney, Amber Cookson, Aubrey Brown and Jonia Walker.

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 tip-off on Saturday at the State Fairgrounds Arena in March. The Lady Indians of coach Larry Callison

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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. Despite the loss of last year’s 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, torn ACL knee injury, the Lady Indians still strike fear in the face of their opponents. . “I feel like we can be as good as last year but in a different way,” said Callison. “Losing Cenia definitely adjusts the game plan; however our lineup will still be quick and we have better shooters and more depth on the roster.” Posing an intimidating presence in the paint will be 5-9 junior center Kymber Tyon, a proven shot blocker with added speed. One of seven juniors returning

Jakkie Wright

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

SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH BASKETBALL “THE TRADITION CONTINUES” 1 4 5 10 12 15 21 22 23 24 33 35 42

HEAD COACH: LARRY CALLISON ASSISTANT COACH: JON MINOR MANAGER: KATLYN TYON, CENIA HAYES FILM: DON FRANKLIN SUPERINTENDENT: LEROY QUALLS PRINCIPAL: JOLYN CHOATE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: MARCUS CRITTENDEN

2015 LADY INDIANS • 23 WINS 6 LOSSES Class 3A State Champions State Champions: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2015 State Runner-Up: 2008 • State Semifinalist: 2001 State Quarterfinals: 2000, 2002, 2010, 2013, 2014

2015 INDIANS • 19 WINS 9 LOSSES Class 3A State Qualifier State Champions 2003 State Runner-Up: 2005, 2007, 2008 State Semifinalist: 1998, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014 State Quarterfinals: 2002, 2004, 2006, 2015

SEQUOYAH LADY INDIANS BASKETBALL 2015-2016 SAMANTHA SAWNEY 5-3 JR. AUBREY BROWN 5-6 FR. LAHONNA FLYNN 5-5 JR. TANEIKA DUNCAN 5-5 JR. AMBER COOKSON 5-10 JR. CALESA MURDOCK 5-7 FR. TAYLOR OWL 5-9 SR. JAKKIE WRIGHT 5-8 SR. KYMBER TYON 5-11 JR. MERISSA SMITH 5-9 JR. BRITTNEY BUSH 5-6 SO. JONIA WALKER 5-11 FR. FELICIA HUMMINGBIRD 5-10 SR.

1 2 3 5 10 11 12 14 15 20 21 22 32 33 34 50

SEQUOYAH INDIANS BASKETBALL 2015-2016 BOBBY CADE 6-0 G SO. JORDEN ROOSTER 6-2 F SO. ELAN EAGLE 6-2 F JR. REECE HERRIN 6-2 F SO. TAYLOR ARMBRISTER 6-1 G JR. JACK RAGSDALE 6-0 G SO. TAHJ DAVIS 6-3 P SR. CALEB HELSLEY 6-0 G SO. BRADYN SMITH 6-0 G SO. TYEUS DAUGHERTY 6-3 G JR. ALEX GARNER 6-2 F SO. KYLE SANDERS 5-10 G SR. ADAM SAINE 6-3 P SO. DAKOTA KEYS 6-1 P SO. JEREMIAH FIXIN 6-2 P SR. HUNTER SOAP 6-1 P SR. HEAD COACH: JAY HERRIN ASSISTANT COACH: JEFF TURTLE FILM: DON FRANKLIN MANAGER: CAMMIE COPELAND, DAYNARAH CROW SUPERINTENDENT: LEROY QUALLS PRINCIPAL: JOLYN CHOATE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: MARCUS CRITTENDEN

Class 3A

What you need to know

GIRLS Defending champion Sequoyah-Tahlequah deserves the right to draw the favorite’s role to repeat as the best of Class 3A girls. With the loss of Cenia Hayes to a knee injury and Alva’s move to Class 3A this title chase promises to be exciting. Led by four year starter Desiree Moon, Vian (#7) returns the nucleus of last year’s tourney team to earn consideration as well as Beggs (#12) led by sophomore Raven Blackbear and Eufaula (#17) with Erin Gray leading the way. Players to Watch: 1. Shauntay Hays – Stigler 5-6 G/F So. 2. Jodie Hills – Heavener 5-6 G Sr. 3. Jakkie Wright – Sequoyah Tahlequah 5-7 G Sr. 4. Merissa Smith – Sequoyah Tahlequah 5-7 F Jr. 5. Carleigha Thompson – Spiro 5-7 PG Sr. 6. Raven Blackbear – Beggs 5-9 F So. 7. Desiree Moon – Vian 5-5 PG Sr. 8. Jennifer Hunter – Vian 5-6 G Sr. 9. Erin Gray – Eufaula 5-7 G Jr.

BOYS The Chargers of Heritage Hall return to defend their 2015 Class 3A crown with plenty of talent to deserve the number one spot in the preseason polls. The race to crown will once again be exciting with Sequoyah Tahlequah (#4) deserving of a top five position as the Indians return a pair of three-year veterans including Elan Eagle and Kyle Sanders to lead the rally cry. The Bulldogs of Spiro (#10) led by shot-blocking specialist Braedon Howard will be among those teams giving chase while Beggs, with Ira Blackbear as their catalyst, will be among the preseason unranked teams worth watching on the trail to the Big House.

Players to Watch: 1. Elan Eagle – Sequoyah Tahlequah 6-2 F Jr 2. Tyeus Daugherty – Sequoyah Tahlequah 6-3 F Jr. 3. Javier Ramos – Vian 6-4 F So. 4. Ira Blackbear – Beggs 5-10 PG Jr. 5. Kylar Stilwell – Keys 5-10 G Jr. 6. Kyle Allen – Stigler 6-2 F Sr. 42

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Class 2A

What you need to know

GIRLS Cashing in last year’s silver ball for the Class 2A state title in 2016 is the mission for the Preston Lady Pirates. Led by VYPE Top 100 choice Ki Essence Shields and Jordan Ivey, coach Jeff Weedn’s squad holds the preseason number one spot in the polls. The balanced field of teams this season had one coach pointing out that as many as 25 teams are worthy of top ten consideration including Howe (#5), Okemah (#18) with Kenzie Bean regaining full speed following last year’s injury along with Oktaha (#20) that welcomes Shea Lynch back to the court to join Jordan Austin and lead the Lady Tigers quest to return to the Big House. Players to Watch: 1. Aspen Dees – Gans 5-8 F Jr. 2. Kenzie Bean – Okemah 5-11 F Sr. 3. Ki Essence Shields – Preston 6-0 F Jr. 4. Jordan Ivey – Preston 5-7 G Sr. 5. Carleigha Thompson – Spiro 5-7 PG Sr. 6. Aubrie Ayers – Porum 6-0 P Jr. 7. Brayden Dorsey – Howe 5-9 F Jr. 8. Keirsten Hall – Howe 5-3 G Sr. 9. Kaylee Matthews – Warner 6-1 G Sr. 10. Jordan Austin – Oktaha 5-11 G/F Sr. 11. Shea Lynch – Oktaha 5-6 G Sr.

BOYS Nothing but gold will satisfy the Preston Pirates expectations this season as last year’s Class 2A runnerup draws the top ranking led by Jaden Huffman and Koby Goodman. Paced by VYPE Top 100 pick Mason Fielden and Parker Taylor, Hulbert (#9) joins Howe (#10) among the top ten in preseason polls. Moving to Class 2A this season has Okemah (#13) part of the Class 2A state tournament chatter along with Central Sallisaw (#14) and Haskell (#16). Players to Watch: 1. Nick Jenkins – Porter 6-0 F Sr. 2. Ben Custar – Okemah 6-0 G Sr. 3. Jadon Huffman – Preston 6-0 G Sr. 4. Koby Goodman – Preston 6-5 F Jr. 5. Mason Fielden – Hulbert 6-1 G Sr. 6. Parker Taylor – Hulbert 6-5 P Sr. 7. Tre’ Lang – Haskell 6-1 G Sr. 8. Shade Nofire – Central Sallisaw 6-0 F Sr. 9. Mason Coulston – Porum 6-1 F Jr. 10. Gaven Brown – Howe 6-3 G Sr. 11. Josiah Mitchell – Howe 6-4 F Sr. 12. Clayton Kilpatrick – Warner 6-2 G Jr.

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Howe Preview

WE ARE LIONS – SEE “HOWE” WE ROAR

Howe Basketball Has One Destination – Big House As another basketball season begins, the noise coming from inside the gym is the cheer of the fans following the dreams of the Lady Lions and Lions with an expectation for another season of success that will be defined by a return to the Class 2A state tournament. As Chris Brown enters his 16th season as head coach, the Lady Lions return the nucleus of a lineup that produced a 26-3 campaign last year. Class 2A AllVYPE preseason selection Braden Dorsey (5-9, Jr.), who

averaged 12.6 points and 6.3 rebounds returns to match forces on the hardwood with Kerstein Hall (5-3, Sr.), whose 81 steals produced multiple points off turnovers while Jentry Brown (5-3, Sr.) generated 66 steals leading to quick baskets by the Lady Lions. Depth at guard is a

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18210 State Highway 83 • Howe,OK 74940 (918) 658-2086

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strong advantage in Brown’s rotation of players including Taya Kellogg (5-7, Jr.) who contributed 3-plus assists per game last season along with Kealy Brandin (5-6, Sr.), Lauren Ford (5-5, Jr.), Macee Williams (5-8, Sr.) and Lexi Denton (5-4, Sr.). The Lions will also get an immediate impact from Jalie Oglesby (5-7, Fr.) whose shooting and ball handling talents are a perfect fit for the Lady Lions 10-12 player rotation.

“Depth with experience allows us plenty of options,” said Brown. “While we’re not the biggest team, we offset our size with a focused team effort rebounding and on defense. The road to the Big House in March will no doubt be filled with challenges as Shane Brown’s Lions face a talent laden of teams all capable of reaching the Class 2A boys’ final eight teams.

“There’s 25 teams worthy of being ranked in the top ten in our class,” said Brown, who enters his 7th year as head coach. “And, we expect to be one of the final eight teams in March.” Brown’s expectations for a state tournament berth revolve the return of four starters including VYPE Top 100 choice Gaven Brown (6-2, Sr.) who recorded a double-double average with 16.2 points and 10.3 rebounds last season during the Lions 26-3 campaign. Another cause for excitement is the return of Josiah Mitchell (6-4, Sr.) following last year’s 12 points and eight rebound inside play contribution along with Reid Frasher (6-0, So.) and Colten Meeks (5-10, Sr.) that Brown expects to solidify play on the perimeter.

Three other seniors including Pedro Rojas (5-10, Sr.), Clayton Leflore (6-3, Sr.) and Jake Lovell (6-2, Sr.) give Howe experience of winning under pressure that will allow time for younger players to take on new roles leading to another winning season. Reece Mitchell (6-2, So.) along with Trey Nation (5-10, So.) and Diego Sanchez (5-7, So.) will be key contributors this season. “Gaven and Josiah played in the state tournament in 2014 and know what it’s going to take to go back,” Brown said. “We expect that by playoff time, our combination of scoring and defensive intensity will allow us to make a deep playoff run.”

HOWE LADY LIONS 00 JALEI OGLESBY 3 LAUREN FORD 4 RACHEL BEAMES 10 LEXI DENTON 11 MACEE WILLIAMS 12 BRADEN DORSEY 14 KARAGIN ANGEL 15 ALLISON BEAMES 20 TAYA KELLOGG 21 BRITTNEY WANN 22 KERSTEIN HALL 23 KEALY BRANDIN 24 KENNEDY COOPER 30 MIRIAM LANDEROS 33 MORGAN TURNER 35 MORGAN HILLEBRAND 43 SARA FOX 43 ELIZABETH CRABTREE 44 JENTRY BROWN 50 SHAE SINGLETERRY HEAD COACH: CHRIS BROWN ASSISTANT COACH: MIKE WOMACK HOWE LIONS 3 PEDRO ROJAS 10 JERETT STALLARD 11 TREY NATION 12 GAVEN BROWN 15 COLTEN MEEKS 20 JOSIAH MITCHELL 21 NILO RAMIREZ 22 REED FRASHER 23 BRANT DENTON 24 REECE MITCHELL 30 TYLER SINGLETERRY 32 CLAYTON LEFLORE 34 RYAN ANTHONY 42 JAKE LOVELL 44 DIEGO SANCHEZ HEAD COACH: SHANE BROWN

5-7 5-5 5-9 5-4 5-8 5-9 5-8 5-9 5-7 5-8 5-3 5-6 5-5 5-2 5-6 5-9 6-0 5-6 5-2 5-8

FR JR FR SR SR JR SR SR JR SO SR SR SO SR SO JR SO SO SR FR

G G F G F G F F G F G G G G G F C F G F

5-10 5-7 5-10 6-3 5-9 6-3 5-6 5-10 5-11 6-1 6-2 6-2 6-2 6-2 5-6

SR JR SO SR SR SR SO SO SO SO SO SR SR SR SO

F G F G G F G G G F F C F C G

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Oktaha Preview

EYES OF THE TIGERS ARE 20-20 The focus of the Tigers this season is to restore the pride of the blue and gold as Dickson looks to add energy and swagger to this year’s roster. Tyler Garcia (5-9, Sr.) and Michael Yahola (5-9, Jr.) will provide the floor leadership at guard while sophomore forwards Dean Austin (6-1, So.) and Tyler Baldridge (6-2, So.) can score from range as well as in the paint. “Overall, as a team, this group is a better shooting team than my state tournament teams I’ve coached,” said Dickson. “We return everyone from last year battle tested and their offseason work habits is proof of their determination to regain the winning ways of the Tigers.”

Energy and expectations abound in the gym at Oktaha as the 2015-16 basketball season gets underway as Chester Pittman begins his 28th season on the girls bench as head coach while Darian Dickson, who takes the reins of the boys team following a successful tenure at Talihina, joins a school where 20-win seasons are a tradition. Jordan Austin (5-11, Sr.) returns to hardwood following a junior campaign where she averaged 11.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. After watching from the sidelines due to a knee injury last year, Shea Lynch (5-6, Sr.) looks to regain her top level form where she averaged 10.3 points while taking away 3.8 steals per game as a sophomore. “Jordan’s a mismatch because she can play the post as well as handle the offense at guard,” Pittman said about Austin. “Shea’s regained her quickness giving us a big lift this year.”

The Lady Tigers look to get a “big” plus on the blocks with Dailey Bertholf (5-11, Sr.) giving size to the front line plus production from Bailey Campbell (5-8, Sr.), Sierra Fulton (5-6, Sr.), Christi Pipkins (5-6, So.) and Chelsea Martin (5-8, So.). A talented group of freshmen including Gracie Dickson (5-7, Fr.) Baylee Hall (5-6, Fr.) and Baylee Highfill (5-7, Fr.) have Oktaha expecting to return to its tradition 20-win plus seasons and a playoff run mapped toward the Big House and the Class 2A state tournament next March. “Dailey can be a factor inside because of her size making it difficult to defend,” said Pittman. “If she does take charge and our freshmen do what they’ve shown in the past, we’ve got a chance to be a good team.” 46

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Garcia brings explosiveness and scoring to the point while Yahola’s quickness allows him to attack and score off the dribble as well as making pinpoint passes to set up scores. Austin and Baldridge deliver an inside-outstide skill set making the pair hard to defend.

Oktaha will get help from the bench with Kirk Washington (5-11, Sr.),Tommy Miller (6-0, Jr.) Koby Edgar (5-8, So.) and Tristan Washington (5-10, So.) adding to the rotation on the court.

“We’re going to be patient and take our chances with the basketball while using pressure to create chances to score as well as defend the lane,” said Dickson. “We’ll play the percentages but our kids will tell you this is not a rebuilding year but a reloading team ready to make people take notice.”

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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

Koby Goodman 48

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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

Class A/B

What you need to know

CLASS A GIRLS Perennial powerhouse Okarche remains the preseason choice to win another state championship for head coach Cherie Meyers while local teams like the Arkoma Lady Mustangs will look for a return ticket to the Class A state tournament. Players to Watch 1. Peyton Lamb –Arkoma 5-11 F/C Sr. 2. Aspen Dees – Gans 5-8 F Jr. 3. Payton Thomas – Gore 5-7 G Sr.

BOYS The chase for the Class A boys title must overtake Fort Cobb-Broxton who earns the top spot among the preseason polls. Paced by VYPE Top 100 choice Darrius Riggs, the Okay Mustangs (#3) seek a repeat trip to the Big House while unranked Keota, led by another Top 100 standout Jace Welch along with Dewar, paced by twin brothers Taylor and Alan Bentjen, draws looks as a state tournament bound team.

2. 3.

Lacee Blankenship – Pittsburg 5-10 F Sr. Chandler Jarrard – Webbers Falls 5-9 F Sr.

BOYS Familiar names in familiar place dot the Class B boys preseason polls as the Eagles of Red Oak are loaded with playmakers and draw the number one position. Leflore (#9) with the 1-2 tandem of Blake and Cody Crase will be among those teams in contention next March as well as Webbers Falls, led by Hunter Bray and Garrett Casady. Players to Watch 1. Blake Crase – LeFlore 6-3 F 2. Cody Crase – LeFlore 6-0 G 3. Mason Jones – Braggs 6-3 C 4. Hunter Bray – Webbers Falls

Jr. Sr. Jr. 6-1 F Sr.

Players to Watch 1. Darius Riggs – Okay 6-0 F Jr. 2. Caleb Riggs – Okay 6-0 G Jr. 3. Jace Welch – Keota 6-1 F Sr. 4. Taylor Bentjen – Dewar 5-11 G Sr. 5. Alan Bentjen – Dewar 5-11 G Jr. 6. Hunter Fletcher – Gans 6-1 G Sr.

CLASS B GIRLS Lomega is the preseason pick for the Class B girls crown as Pittsburg (17), led by Lacie Blankenship and LeFlore (#19) rank among the top 20 teams. The return of coach Jerry Ward on the bench at Webbers Falls has peaked the interest to return to the Warriors glory days. Players to Watch 1. Haelee Crosby – Midway 5-7 G Jr.

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MADYSON EICHLING - Hilldale something you don’t want to do,” said Eichling a member of the Lady Hornets basketball team.”

move, every word,” notes Eichling. “I try to make sure that I’m setting the example for others.

“Whatever I’m doing I try to always be the encourager,” admits Eichling. “Happiness for me comes from someone else getting the spotlight and awards and know that I took the chance to help make things better for everyone.”

“With Madyson, her actions speak louder than her words but when she does talk, everyone listens because they know it’s something important to do or remember,” said Hensley.

Whether spending time with her teammates or sharing her day with her three sisters, Eichling lives in the moment and lets her actions speak much louder than her words.

“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” – John Wooden The words of legendary basketball coach John Wooden are more than just words with meaning but more of way of life for Madyson Eichling, a senior at Hilldale High School who strives every day to be the same person no matter where she is or what she is doing. “Character is always doing the right thing no matter what even when it’s

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Scott Hensley, coach of the Lady Hornets basketball team, says that when you want a picture of character you need to take a good look at Eichling. “Madyson is the perfect description of why character in life is so important,” said Hensley. “With her it’s always team first. She thinks of others needs before her own 100% of the time.”

In addition to every day basketball practice, the ever-smiling Eichling maintains a 4.3 GPA as well as manages a job while sharing her day helping to take care of her sisters Carson (13), Alex (8) and Brooke (6). “I know they’re watching my every

Hensley commends Eichling’s unselfishness and work ethic pointing out how in today’s world of instant gratification, the quiet Hilldale senior leads by example.

Living by example is something that Eichling credits her mom’s influence as her role model.

“Mom (Misty Eichling) is my guiding light,” Eichling said emotionally. “Her confidence in every situation no matter the challenge encourages me day by day. She’s shown me that if success is worth having, there’s a price of sacrifice you have to pay to get to your goal.” Life is a journey filled with opportunities and often things turn out the best for the person who makes the best of the way things turn out. With that thought driving her every move, there’s no doubt that Madyson Eichling understands that it’s the little details that are vital to success because it’s the little things that will make big things happen.

TTCU

Academic

ATHLETE of the MONTH

Dylan Simmons Holland Hall State Champions HEAVENER SOFTBALL Class 3A Academic The Lady Wolves weretorio not only a tough to et beat on eosant the dirtquidus, of the fastpitch softball diamond Olorepro te maio que pro hit team autendis sunt volorerum sitas eostistothis fall but proved to be the best in the classroom among the Class 3A teams this year. Heavener earned the volesequi quam doluptas molorrunti disciendic te estrum ex excearum quatus eum liquiat esti Academic State Championship with a combined 3.85 team GPA. Their efforts on the diamonds produced a sus, secuptaquo venisqui verita volupta tempore pliquunt eos. Olorepro torio te team 34-10 record and a berth in thedem Classquatia 3A state tournament. maio que pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto volesequi quam dolup-

State Academic Champions include Mackenzie Wilson, Jacee Manley, Makaylee Wilson, Kacee Manley, tas molorrunti disciendic te estrum excearum quatus eum. Laney May, Abbi Moody, Mattison Place, Jodie Hill, Erika Lemay, Christian Schiffner, Anna Sanders, Sydney Crase, Emily Yandell, Rilegh Pate, Shelby Smith and Cheyanne Cranfield. Head coach of the Lady Wolves is Rodale Sanders with Ed Wilson and Sara Scarberry serving as assistant coaches.

The unbank. Submit your nominations for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma @VYPE.com

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