LaBrae High School girls’ basketball team is aiming for a return to the district final this season. Coach Mandy Rowe believes being labelled an underdog reduces pressure. Last season, LaBrae finished 19-7, just four points shy of the district crown, and now all but two players are back.
Senior Ella Kuszmaul and junior Mariah Jones, who missed most of last season due to injury, return as key contributors. Mistakes are expected, but how the Vikings respond is vital. Junior duo Riley Rowe and Angel Scruggs averaged 10.2 points per game last season, with Riley also grabbing 5.5 rebounds.
Other seniors and juniors like Ally Magoulick, Brielle Stout, Kendra Young, Mia Sloan, and Makayla Scruggs are expected to play pivotal roles. Last year’s experience, particularly dealing with injuries, set the foundation for success this season.
The team’s defensive focus, developed to compensate for missing stars, remains central. With a full roster, more substitutions allow for increased pressure without fatigue concerns. A challenging non-league schedule, including Poland, Crestview, Garfield, and Mogadore, will prepare them for tournament play.