Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Lady ’Jackets hope to build off success

- BY SAM PIERCE STAFF WRITER

The Sheridan Lady Yellowjack­ets hope to continue the kind of success they had last season after finishing as state runner-up in the 6A state tournament. Returning three starters from last season, the Lady Yellowjack­ets are in a good position to do just that, said Jamison Ingram, the 2017 Tri-Lakes Edition Basketball Coach of the Year. “Our goal will continue to be geared around on-the-court and off-the-court success,” Ingram said. “We have many players coming back with great experience who contribute­d a lot last year. “But we will also have to rely on some younger, less experience­d players to step up and be prepared for postseason play.” Returning starters include senior point guard Savanah Howard, senior Taylor O’Bryan and junior Kassie Martin. “Savannah is a great ball handler, hustles and rebounds well,” Ingram said. “She takes very few shots but is effective when she does. “Taylor is all heart, hustle and energy and is a tremendous defender. Kassie is loaded with hustle and energy and is a great defender and rebounder.” Ingram said junior Bri McCleroy will back up Martin at the post position. “[McCleroy] is one of the most improved players I have seen,” the coach said. “She is very determined.” Senior shooting guard Sarah Moore and junior Diamond Morris will get opportunit­ies to start as well, Ingram said. “Diamond is one of the best outside shooters,” Ingram said. “She has really added to her outside range over the summer. “She can get to the basket or hurt you from the outside. She has a great body to work both inside and outside.” Ingram said that while Sheridan lost two great seniors to graduation, she feels the players are prepared enough to pick right back up where they left off. “Our girls have worked hard in the offseason, and we will strive for that same type of season,” Ingram said. “These girls really take care of each other as teammates. They are very selfless, they work well together, and they do not care who gets the credit.”

 ??  ?? Junior Blair Casey makes a shot during a recent Lady Yellowjack­ets practice.
Junior Blair Casey makes a shot during a recent Lady Yellowjack­ets practice.
 ?? PHOTOS BY WILLIAM HARVEY/TRI-LAKES EDITION ?? Junior Ashley Sweeney fights for the ball while defended by fellow Lady Yellowjack­ets.
PHOTOS BY WILLIAM HARVEY/TRI-LAKES EDITION Junior Ashley Sweeney fights for the ball while defended by fellow Lady Yellowjack­ets.

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