Augusta returns ‘crucial leaders’ in 2018

Coming off a 2017-18 season that ended in a 9-13 overall record, coach Jordan Long expects major improvement from the Lady Red Devils. “Last year, we underachieved as a team. We lost games we should’ve won,” Long said. “This year, I expect us to win conference and district.” Returning starters for Augusta include seniors Tia Tripp and Jharysse Neal. “Both will be crucial leaders for our team,” Long said. “Jharysse Neal has great footwork for a post player. What she lacks in height she gains by being able to get great post-up position, no matter where she is in the paint. … Last year, Tia tied for third in the state with most points per game. She has great court vision, she can pass, and she has great hands and quick feet that make her a great asset on defense. She has a great work ethic, and she’s always trying to improve her skills. She’s also an excellent student.” Long said Tripp, along with Shalom Emerson and Chastity Johnson, will be threats both inside and outside. One new contributor to the team is Emma Driver, a 6-2 sophomore. “This is her first year to play high school sports, but she is long and lean and will make a great addition to our team on both sides of the ball,” Long said. “Point guard Makenna Heard, a junior, has improved her outside shooting since last season. Tajanek Barnes, a sophomore point guard transfer from McCrory, will be an outside threat as well. Both of them are great ball handlers, which will help us limit turnovers.” Two major games not to miss are the Nov. 12 and Dec. 18 matchups with McCrory, the coach said. “Our towns are 10 miles apart, and I’m from McCrory, so anytime you can be a part of this rivalry, either as a coach or a player, is always fun and exciting,” Long said. “Both of our conference games with Brinkley will also be must-see games.” Long said that being moved to 1A will be a new experience for the program, and he hopes the fans come out to support the team.