Basketball prepares for conference

The Lady Braves basketball team is on an eight-game losing streak. With conference play starting this week, the team hopes to build off of changes it has been making.

Coach Bruce Tate likes that his team has played tougher teams in the preseaon.

"We have played some very tough non-conference games to prepare us for the season and they have handled themselves well," Tate said. "Our record has not shown the improvement this team has made this past month."

Senior Misty Stone believes that changes from last year include chemistry and camaraderie.

"This year's team is special because we are all close and have good chemistry with each other," Stone said. "Everyone gets along and would do anything for each other."

Though the team has yet to record a home win, the girls feel like it will only be a matter of time.

"I believe the home game dynamic is very important because our fans are what keeps us motivated," junior Myah Sprew said. "They are there to cheer us on win or lose."

Stone has high hopes with the first conference game on Thursday.

"I can tell a big difference from the team when we are at home and our goal is to not lose any conference games at home," Stone said.

Both Sprew and Stone expressed the importance of newcomers on the team. Players like Jamee Leichtle, Stacey Post and KiKi Smith all have seen substantial playing time.

"The program is in their hands," Stone said. "What we do this year is going to set a tone for what is expected of them. They are all very important and will help us out considerably this season."

Tate and the returners believe that the newcomers bring a key element to the team's game.

"They are all really great girls with a lot of talent," Sprew said.

"They can make plays happen when we need by doing things and scoring points."

Tate agreed, adding only youth as a downfall.

"The only weakness is they are very young, but we have made tremendous improvements in the past month," Tate said. "Once we get into our KCAC play routine, they will improve weekly."

Stone hopes that by adding all the elements from the pre-season that the team has, they will finish with a big season.

"I know everyone wants to be successful this year and we are willing to do whatever it takes to be conference champs," Stone said.