CLASS 2A GIRLS BASKETBALL PREVIEW

THREE STORYLINES TO FOLLOW

1. Can anyone get in Melbourne’s way?

Anything can happen when teams get on the court, but it’s going to be hard for anyone in Class 2A to keep up with the Lady Bearkatz for a full 32 minutes. Melbourne is deep, talented and experienced. The team will have some competition, with teams such as Conway Christian, Des Arc and Bigelow on the rise. But it will take an outstanding effort to dethrone the champs.

2. Any sleepers out there?

One team that could generate some buzz is Fordyce. The Lady Bugs had a stretch last season where they won 22 of 23 games while powered by Caitlyn Bulliner. They lost their final three games but could make a push. Watch out for Flippin as well.

3. How will the big three in the 2A-5 fare?

Conway Christian, Quitman and Bigelow are all title contenders right now, so there is no reason to believe they’ll fall back. Fellow 2A-5 foe South Side Bee Branch has had moments this season as well. Marshall has dropped down to the 2A-5 after going 16-8 in the 3A-1 East last season.

IMPACT PLAYERS SOPHOMORE JOSIE WILLIAMS, CONWAY CHRISTIAN, GUARD

The All-Arkansas Preps selection got off to a blazing start this season with a 31-point, 9-rebound, 5-assist effort against Baptist Prep. Williams averaged 21 points as a freshman and could see that total increase for a team with high expectations.

SOPHOMORE JENNA LAWRENCE, MELBOURNE, CENTER

Lawrence has committed to the University of Arkansas, but other Power 5 schools will come a callin’ over the next couple of seasons to try and change her mind. The 6-2 center can score and shoot but doesn’t have to do everything for the Lady Bearkatz, who have at least two or three others who can play college basketball.

JUNIOR KENLEY MCCARN, MELBOURNE, GUARD

One third of Melbourne’s trio of standouts, McCarn makes a difference in a variety of ways. The junior was the MVP of the state tournament last season. She has committed to Tennessee-Martin.

OTHERS TO KEEP AN EYE ON Junior Heidi Robinson, Marmaduke; Senior Colbi Maples, Earle; Senior Kayla Richardson, Cossatot River; Senior Leah Still, Flippin