Prep Hoops Preview: Alcoa Lady Tornadoes aim to build on minor successes
By Justin Millersports@thedailytimes.com
Originally published: November 13. 2009 3:01AM
Last modified: November 12. 2009 11:03PM
The Alcoa women's basketball team is a work in progress, but head coach Tonia Gay has confidence in her squad.
The Lady Tornadoes finished 5-21 last season and made an early exit in the District 3-AA Tournament, falling 60-32 to the Seymour Lady Eagles.
"We learned a lot last year going into the off-season, and we're coming into this year understanding that we still have a lot of improving to do," Gay said.
The Lady Tornadoes are primarily young, with only one senior and one junior. Senior Takyah Gilmore and junior Kylie Russell are qualified leaders according to Gay.
"They will be our foundation on and off the court, both have experience and are ready to step up as leaders," she said.
While young, the Lady Tornadoes graduated only one starter from last season.
Gay expects her team to improve on last year's record but thinks her team can build on minor successes.
The Lady Tornadoes will debut in the Blount County prep jamboree on Monday night and open their season at home against Class A opponent Wartburg on Tuesday, Nov. 17, and travel to Class AAA's McMinn County on Nov. 19 before participating in a Thanksgiving Tournament at Gibbs, Nov. 23-28.
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