Washington brings leadership to side

THE Mountaineers women received a huge boost with court leader Malena Washington completing her first practice session on Tuesday night.

Washington arrived in the Garden City from Houston in the early hours of Tuesday morning, and coach Ezy Parsons couldn’t be happier with how her import point guard has adjusted.

“Playing at the level she has, she knows what to expect, but it brought experience, guidance and changed our training session quite a bit,” Parsons said.

“(She has) The class, commitment and dedication you need at the professional level.

“This year we’re changing the culture and accountability of the girls. This is what I need them to see.”

After a long flight and adjusting to a new time-zone, Washington said she looked forward to getting over the jet-lag and putting in work on the floor.

“I’m hoping to be able to transition smoothly. I’m looking to come out here and work hard, and give my coach and my team everything,” Washington said.

Running the point will be nothing new for Washington as she aims to lead from the front this season.

“I’ve been a point guard since I started playing basketball. I’m pretty interchangeable between the one and the two. I won’t find it too difficult, just more of being a leader when I get out there, especially for the young girls.

“My most important thing will be leadership. Being around some new players, a new team and surroundings, leadership is something I can always bring to the table.

“To be a point guard, I do have a major scoring mentality, so it’s going to be my job to be able to do that as well as facilitate and make sure my teammates are involved and on the same page.”

Second import Carolee Dillard will arrive in April after completing her season with Lobas, where she is currently averaging a double-double.