Staff writer
With the loss of only one starter from last year’s team, the core of the Peabody-Burns High School girls’ basketball team returns to the floor for the 2012-13 season. The squad is buoyed by four seniors who have played since they were sophomores.
“These four athletes provide great leadership and help to impart their knowledge on the rest of the team,” said head coach Darren Schroeder, now in his 10th season at PBHS.
“For us, we want to be competitive on a game to game basis, hoping to excel at all facets of the game,” Schroeder said. “This group works hard. We want that to translate to consistency in every contest.”
Rayna Barnes is the anchor inside. She is strong and physical at the post position. Improvement is foremost on her mind, not only for herself but helping others around her. She was a Wheat State League all-league selection last season.
Brandee Burnett is a shooting guard and primary 3-point threat. A team player, she is unselfish and shoulders leadership responsibilities well with younger players.
Paige Lewis has quick feet and attacks on defense. She can penetrate and score.
McKenzie Ensminger is the point guard with good skill level. She is a reliable ball handler and can shoot from the outside with the game on the line.
“We have to get on the floor every night and score,” said Schroeder. “Eliminating turnovers will be a key component in relationship to our success. We have leadership and great chemistry. Early in the season our concentration will be on finding roles for the team and individuals and then developing them.”
Schroeder is assisted this year by Brian Lightner. PBHS opens the season with a game Nov. 30 at Chase County.