By By Ryan Satcher/staff writer
November 2, 2002
After coming up short against New Albany in the Class 3A State Championship game last year, the Lady Knights of West Lauderdale would like to go one step farther this year and bring home the school's first girls basketball state championship.
Last year's loss in the state finals was disappointing for the team, but Hurst and the returning players were pleased with the season. The experience should be an advantage for the Lady Knights this season.
The team has similar goals for this season. The Lady Knights are hoping to get another shot at a state championship.
The Lady Knights will have to fill the hole left by Jawanda Huggins, who left to play for the Lady Eagles of Meridian Community College, but will have everyone else back this season.
Shannon Lloyd will have the task of filling the spot left by Huggins. According to Hurst, Lloyd should move in quite nicely.
J.J. Huggins will be one of the keys to the Lady Knights' success. Several colleges are looking at the 5-foot-9 senior. Kristina Gardner will probably play inside, but can also step out and play on the outside. She is one of the team's best three-point shooters.
Patty Monroe will start at point guard and should be very solid. She is consistent and doesn't make a lot of mistakes for West.
Cierra Jennings is probably the team's best athlete and as the best defender on the team will have the job of guarding the other team's best player. She also has a good shot to go along with the defense.
West would like to move the ball up and down the floor, but is very versatile. The team is able to change looks and do what it takes to come away with a victory.
The team is a little behind because the West Lauderdale softball team has been competing for the state championship, but the Lady Knights should be ready to go tonight when they take on Meridian High in the Choctaw Classic at 7.