New Southside coach inherits young, strong squad
New Southside Batesville Lady Southerners coach Jamie Williams inherits a team that went 18-10 with only seven players on its roster. Williams comes to Southside after coaching at Conway Christian and replaces former coach Chris Hardin, who moved into administration in the Southside district. Returning starters include sophomore London Cuzzort, sophomore Rylie Freeman and and senior Kassidy Barnt. “We are small in stature this year,” Williams said, “but London is our most versatile player on the court. She is 5-9 but physically strong and sees the court well and will be able to give her matchup trouble inside the paint.” Williams said junior Shelby Warren will be another big presence inside. “She adds a lot of physical strength and grit,” Williams said. “Newly added to our roster is also junior Blakely Floyd, who shows a lot of tenacity on the boards and craftiness to create shots around the basket.” Williams said her team will have good presence on the perimeter. “All three of our returning starters create a good balance to our outside game,” she said. “Rylie Freeman set a state record last year for the most 3-pointers in a game. She runs the floor well and does a good job of finding shots.” Williams said Cuzzort is a versatile player. “She sees the floor very well and can set up and shoot or be a threat when putting the ball on the floor in the half court,” Williams said. “Adding to our roster this year is freshman Olivia Allen. She has proven herself as a dominant threat and scorer with her quickness and her ability to create offense. Kassidy Barnt is very productive from behind the 3-point line, along with the athletic ability and quickness of Kailee McGhee.” Williams said her team’s strength will be its ability to score from the outside. “Everyone on the court will have to be guarded at all times,” Williams said, “hopefully opening up opportunities for good shots for us this year.” Williams said lack of depth and size is something her team has to overcome this year. “With only nine on the roster this year, we will be working hard to be conditioned to play 32 minutes each of basketball, while also working hard in the weight room to be physically strong,” she said.