Harding Academy eyes return trip to state tourney
Coach Rusty Garner, who is in the midst of his 15th season at Harding Academy, said the Lady Wildcats will focus on improvement and being able to play their best by the end of the season. The team plays in the 3A/4A-7 blended conference and had a record of 17-16 last year, he said, and will return this season with five starters: seniors Audrey Laird, Elaine Helpenstill and Layne Pace; and juniors Alden Graves and Brittan Harlow. “Elaine Helpenstill returns to a spot where she started 33 games as a junior and led the team in scoring. She is also the team’s leading returning rebounder. Her impressive skill set and savvy continue to improve,” Garner said. “Junior Brittan Harlow started in every game last season as a sophomore. She is an athletic post who is a plus shooter from 15 feet,” the coach said. “Two freshmen will play up this season also. Sophomore Sloane Wiedower brings height and physicality, while classmates Kadyn Harris and Jordan Bolding provide additional strength and rebounding ability.” Garner said Laird is a capable shooter and scorer, and she plays with toughness and grit while being a good leader. “She will also at times move to her natural position as a 3, with sophomore Caroline Citty stepping in as the point guard. Junior Alden Graves started every game the past two years and was the team’s second leading scorer,” the coach said. “Graves, a gifted shooter who shot 85 percent at the free-throw line last season, is growing her game daily. Junior Layne Pace started every game as a junior. Pace will help more this season at the guard spot. “Juniors McKenna Oliver, Hannah Ferrie and Mallory Gowen, as well as sophomores Allie Nesbitt and Addison Province, will also provide guard depth.” Garner said the team’s strengths include selflessness, chemistry, experience, post size and depth. However, the ability to score from all five spots is something Garner said the team will continue to develop. Heber Springs, Riverview, Bald Knob and Rose Bud will be games to watch, he said, and the Lady Wildcats have many challenges ahead. “No seniors last season is a strength this season,” he said. “We expect our team to grow their relationships with one another through basketball, and their relationship with God through the game and one another.” Garner said the Lady Wildcats played in the state tournament last year for the 17th straight year but were defeated by Hoxie in a game that was tied at halftime.