Class 4A Season Preview: Sectionals #9-#12

The beginning of the high school season was last week, as many of the teams from around the state played their first official games. With that in mind, I wanted to finish our thorough preview of the 2019-2020 season. In this article, I will take a look at the first Class 4A South Regional, which incorporates the winners of Sectionals #9 through #12. Below is a look at the teams in each of those Sectionals, along with some general comments and analysis. I will finish previewing the upcoming season over the weekend.   (SAG = Final 2018-2019 Multiclass Sagarin Rating (403 teams); SOS = Final 2018-2019 Strength of Schedule)   Sectional #9 New Palestine (21-3) SAG 22; SOS 57 Mt. Vernon-Fortville (20-6) SAG 37; SOS 36 Pendleton Heights (13-11) SAG 85; SOS 44 Anderson (9-14) SAG 96; SOS 24 Greenfield-Central (10-14) SAG 121; SOS 54 Richmond (5-19) SAG 206; SOS 63 Muncie Central (5-18) SAG 245; SOS 114 Sectional #9 is typically very competitive, and there are often three or four teams who compete for the title each year, plus oftentimes that list changes from year to year. New Palestine posted an outstanding regular season last year, but they fell in the Sectional final. Additionally, they graduated eight players in total, and they only went ten-deep. Gone are leading scorer Leah Seib (14.6 ppg, 6.5 rpg), leading rebounder Katie Herron (7.4 ppg, 8.4 rpg), shooter Haley Harrison (9.3 ppg), point guard Megan Jolly (5.8 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 4.4 apg, 2.5 spg), plus Tatum Biddle (3.9 ppg, 3.6 rpg), Claire Cherry (2.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg), Emily Newcomb, and Avery Biggs. At the same time, the school continues to grow, and there are some really nice underclassmen who should make the Dragons competitive again this season. Senior forward Jordan Reid (10.0 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 2.2 apg, 2.0 spg) is a versatile, do-everything athlete. Senior wing Michaela Jones (3.7 ppg) is another nice athlete ready for a bigger role. Sophomore wing Grace Marshall is a motor kid who should step into solid playing time right away. Freshman point guard Isabella Gizzi should take over ball-handling duties immediately, while Junior wing Addi Jones looks to take the next step to Varsity as well. Junior post Faith Hensel, Sophomore wing Anna Ackerman, and Sophomore guard Rachel Kelley add depth to the roster. I don’t know if New Palestine will see 20 wins or not, but they’ll likely come close once again. Mount Vernon was the 2019 Sectional #9 Champion, and they very well could repeat that feat this season, as they return nearly everyone of note. Lyndsay Hartl (2.2 ppg, 3.2 rpg) was the lone graduation loss, but Sophomores Maddie Swingle (4.3 ppg, 4.2 rpg) and Shay Shipley (3.3 ppg) are not listed on their online roster either after encouraging Freshmen seasons. Junior forward Lexi Shelton (15.9 ppg, 5.2 rpg) is back for her third season of Varsity action. Athletic Senior guard Sydnee Perry (10.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.3 apg, 2.8 spg) also returns a great deal of experience. Junior point guard Abby Worley (6.6 ppg, 2.6 apg) and Senior guard Tessa Freeman (3.8 ppg, 3.2 rpg) have also played big minutes the last couple of years. Junior post Olivia Yeley (2.1 ppg, 2.1 rpg) adds depth. There are a few other Juniors and Sophomores who can possibly help, like Sophomore wing Alaina Nugent, Junior wing Riley Hasseld, and Junior forward Faith Hayes. The team I think could sneak up on opponents this year is Pendleton Heights. They suffered their share of graduation losses, but they return some talent as well. Gone via the diploma are Kailyn Graham (13.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg), Leonie Wilson (6.4 ppg, 2.6 rpg), Niyah Loomis (6.1 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.5 spg), and Brynn Teague. Seniors Aubree Dwiggins (11.8 ppg, 5.4 rpg) and Megan Mills (10.3 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 2.1 spg) give the Arabians a pair of nice, versatile forwards. Junior guard Kylie Davis (9.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg) has noticeable talent, and she could be ready to turn the corner. And Sophomore forward Kylea Lloyd saw some action last year as a rookie. The best newcomer could easily be Freshman front-liner Kylie Fisher. After spending time in a loaded Sectional #8, Anderson has moved into Sectional #9 with more of its natural rivals. Unfortunately for the Indians, Staisha Hamilton (17.3 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 2.6 apg) has moved on via graduation. So have Lakevya Wills (3.1 ppg, 2.7 rpg) and Kiersten Widup. However, an athletic core does return, led by versatile, high-motor Junior forward Tyra Ford (21.7 ppg, 10.2 rpg, 2.8 apg, 3.1 spg, 1.7 bpg). Senior point guard Erin Martin (7.6 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.5 apg, 2.7 spg) is also back, and I’d anticipate her improving her numbers significantly. Junior forwards Karlee Goodwin (4.8 ppg, 5.2 rpg) and Makyra Dixon (2.4 ppg, 2.9 rpg) have quality Varsity experience as well. Those four need help, and it could come by way of Sophomore post Kaylie Vaughn, Sophomore point guard Koral Wheeler, Sophomore post Emma Weber, or possibly even Freshman guard Zoe Allen. Greenfield-Central will be looking to recapture the success they had back in 2013-2017. One great starting point to help with that is Senior forward Hannah Farrell (19.2 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 3.0 apg, 3.4 spg). She is tough, physical, plays with a great motor, and does a variety of things skillfully around the perimeter. Junior forward Addison Hill (7.6 ppg, 5.8 rpg) is a nice compliment to Farrell up front. Senior guard Crystal Peterson (7.2 ppg, 2.4 rpg) is a steady backcourt contributor as well. Junior forward Brooke Herrell also played in the rotation last season. Look for Junior guard Caroline Gibson, plus newcomers Ava Antic, a Junior front-liner, and Brianna McConnell, a Freshman guard, to earn spots in the lineup this year. Richmond and Muncie Central are two scrappy squads looking to rebuild the glory of years past. For Richmond, that will start with a mostly younger, but somewhat experienced cast. Kierra Wright (11.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg), Zoee Woolridge (9.2 ppg, 4.5 rpg), and Kelsey Mullins graduated, but the return of Junior point guard Ajah Orr (7.5 ppg, 2.7 apg), Sophomore forward Jakaia Lotz (5.3 ppg, 4.9 rpg), and athletic Junior forward Alayha Allen (4.9 ppg, 5.4 rpg) should at least give Red Devil fans something to be excited about. After that are a lot of question marks, but Junior guard Kenzie Wert, Senior wing Nakala Bennett, Sophomore wing Jayci Allen, and Junior forward Tristan Neeley did at least see the Varsity floor at times last season. Look for Senior wing Molly Morken and Freshman forward Kamryn Wright to also possibly see playing time early this season. Both are Varsity newcomers. As for Muncie Central, they graduated leading scorer Dakoyta Sloss (14.9 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 2.5 apg, 2.1 spg), plus Ayala Wilson (11.2 ppg, 4.1 rpg) and Riley Stafford (5.0 ppg, 3.9 rpg). Additionally, Junior guard Madissen Geeslin (4.5 ppg, 2.4 rpg) did not return this year. Senior post Marissa Quiroz (7.9 ppg, 9.3 rpg in 2017-2018) missed last season with an injury, but she returns to open arms after being a Varsity performer her first two years. Junior guard Sayla McIntosh (5.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg) is a very good shooter who should see her numbers increase a lot this year. And athletic Senior forward Tonisha Lowe (2.6 ppg, 5.2 rpg) will help on the boards. The rest of the roster could be somewhat fluid throughout the year, but they will play hard all 32 minutes and upset a team or two.   Sectional #10 Warren Central (18-3) SAG 3; SOS 5 North Central-Indianapolis (19-7) SAG 4; SOS 1 Lawrence North (22-7) SAG 5; SOS 4 Cathedral (10-15) SAG 111; SOS 23 Lawrence Central (5-17) SAG 114; SOS 9 Crispus Attucks (6-14) SAG 331; SOS 113 Arsenal Technical (0-21) SAG 366; SOS 103 If Sectional #8 isn’t the toughest Sectional in Class 4A, then it could very well be Sectional #10, especially at the top. Warren Central has had a really nice run of late, but the graduation losses of Shaila Beeler (11.8 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 7.9 apg), Cydni Dodd (11.7 ppg, 6.4 rpg), Trinity McClendon (7.9 ppg), and Melody Johnson (4.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg) will have a major impact on both Warren’s roster, and favorites in Sectional #10. Also, Senior wing Alexus Mobley (2.9 ppg) has reportedly returned to Franklin Central after playing just the one season at Warren Central. Regardless, Senior wing K’Ja Talley (10.8 ppg, 7.1 rpg) is back, and she is one of the most athletic and under-recruited kids in Indiana’s 2020 class. She was a 2019 Indiana Junior All-Star, and I look for her to have a big Winter. Senior forward Alaysia Davis (6.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg) is another underappreciated talent with strength and explosiveness. Sophomore Le’aije Ellington (4.5 ppg) is a strong and athletic guard who should step into a starter’s role this year. Junior guard K’La Talley (3.8 ppg in 4 games) also brings talent to the table. Junior wing Carissa Johnson and Senior post Lauronai Daly look for an opportunity this year as well. Daly looked much-improved during the Spring & Summer. Senior forward India Perry (5.1 ppg, 4.6 rpg) has transferred in from Lawrence Central and should carve out a role. I also wouldn’t be surprised if Freshman forward Asiah Baxter and Freshman point guard Sanaa Thomas get regular minutes from the outset. North Central should be one of the Sectional favorites entering the season, despite their own graduation losses. Gone are 2019 Indiana All-Star Rikki Harris (12.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 2.4 apg), Savaya Brockington (4.1 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 3.8 apg), and Tiara Watkins (2.1 ppg). However, there is so much talent in the program, that it’s simply time for others to step up in their place. Senior wing Jasmine McWilliams (13.1 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 2.0 apg, 2.0 spg) was outstanding after transferring in from Carmel. The Northwestern University commit was a 2019 Indiana Junior All-Star. Junior front-liners Nakaih Hunter (10.7 ppg, 5.5 rpg) and Meg Newman (9.6 ppg, 4.7 rpg) have been Varsity regulars since they enrolled. Newman has several high-major Division-I offers already. Freshman point guard Tanyuel Welch (8.2 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.5 apg) and Freshman track star Ramiah Elliott (6.0 ppg, 6.9 rpg) were immediate contributors last season. Senior forward Toree Jackson (3.2 ppg), Junior post Dynasty Witherspoon, plus Sophomore forward Ariel Helm help solidify one of the more talented frontlines in the state. Junior wing Alivia Terry (2.2 ppg) has also seen playing time early in her career. Don’t be surprised if Freshmen perimeter performers Ava Couch and Trinity Archey get some playing time early in their rookie campaigns. Lawrence North had a tremendous 2018-2019 season, making it all the way to the State Finals. They did so with just one Senior, graduate Maddie Howe (4.5 ppg), so look for them to contend once again this year. Throughout the course of last season, Junior wing Jayla Smith (14.1 ppg, 2.2 rpg) transformed into their go-to player, and the smooth scorer has been outstanding ever since. Senior wing Katie Davidson (10.4 ppg, 3.9 rpg), a Miami University (Ohio) commit, is one of my favorites to watch, and she provides a nice mixture of offense and toughness. Senior point guard Kristian Young (9.2 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.8 apg), a University of Illinois-Chicago signee, was tremendous during their state tournament run. Senior forward Lauren Gunn (5.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg), a Valparaiso University commit, and Senior post Justis Odom (6.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg) are both still recovering from ACL injuries they each suffered during the 2019 state tournament. But could/should be available, but they might be limited early. Senior guard Kalyn Erwin (4.8 ppg) and Junior wing Shamaria Walker (2.5 ppg) bring back additional experience. One newcomer who could provide an instant punch, is Junior forward Sydnee Hughes, a transfer from nearby Horizon Christian School in Lawrence Township (not affiliated with the IHSAA). She is a strong athlete who should help on the interior for the Wildcats. Freshman athlete Monica Williams is someone who could push for Varsity minutes as well this season. It wouldn’t shock me at all if Cathedral was much better this season and surprised some of their top opponents. They return everyone of note, including talented Senior wing Justis Gordon (19.6 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 2.3 apg, 2.7 spg). She’s strong enough to play inside and skilled enough to run offense or score around the perimeter. Junior guard Clara Lee (9.4 ppg, 3.2 spg) had a fine Sophomore season, and Sophomore forward Katie Bremer (8.0 ppg, 5.3 rpg) did some really nice things as a rookie. One addition that should help immediately is dynamic Junior guard Courtney Fields (8.1 ppg, 2.1 spg in 2017-2018), who sat out last season. Junior guard Nyla Bingham (3.2 ppg, 2.1 rpg in 14 games), Senior forward Nyah Conway (3.1 ppg, 3.4 rpg), Junior forward Mia Finn (2.8 ppg, 3.9 rpg), Sophomore wing London Brooks (2.1 ppg), Junior forward Caroline Cline (2.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg), Senior guard Cassie Piper, and Sophomore forward Darryn Ely are all chomping at the bit to see more action this year. Freshman forward Catherine Madden might also figure into the Irish plans at some point this season. It has been difficult for Lawrence Central to compete with this field over the years, and losing Charlize Turner (12.5 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.0 apg, 2.0 spg), Kalyn Williams (12.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 2.5 spg), Sarai Baker (2.6 ppg), and Simone Carter to graduation won’t help. Neither will seeing Senior forward India Perry (5.1 ppg, 4.6 rpg) transfer to Warren Central. Senior forward Jaliah Nailor (5.0 ppg, 4.3 rpg), Junior forward Da’Naria Washington (4.7 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 2.0 spg), and Senior guard Baijing Zinnerman (3.2 ppg) are suddenly the top returnees. Senior guard Aliza Clark and Sophomore guard Tori Smiley look for bigger roles this season. Senior guard Madison Guyse (6.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg in 2017-2018) also returns this season, after not playing last year, which should give the Bears a nice boost. Arsenal Technical should see instant improvement with a coaching change. Senior guards Braxtin Mickens and Alayah Neal come to the Titans from North Central and should provide an instant boost. And Crispus Attucks has moved all the way up from Class 2A to Class 4A over the last few years, and they get thrust into this difficult Sectional. Experienced Senior guards Talica Morton and Anise Brooks should at least help a little.   Sectional #11 Ben Davis (17-9) SAG 11; SOS 7 Pike (12-12) SAG 17; SOS 3 Roncalli (16-7) SAG 21; SOS 25 Perry Meridian (10-14) SAG 79; SOS 16 Decatur Central (16-8) SAG 103; SOS 150 Southport (5-18) SAG 155; SOS 27 Sectional #11 always seems to be very entertaining to those fans who attend, and this year it could continue to give fans some excitement. Ben Davis put together a fine season a year ago against a fairly tough schedule, but they are now without the services of Ambrea Wensey (13.1 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 2.8 apg, 3.1 spg), Jada Coleman (6.4 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 2.0 spg), Geniya Petty (5.5 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 2.2 spg), Djanae Walker (2.8 ppg), and Brianna Jones (2.3 ppg, 2.7 rpg) due to graduation. While they don’t have a lot of their rotation back, they can get excited about Senior guard Cherrelle Newsom (13.3 ppg) and Senior forward Khera Goss (10.7 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 2.4 apg, 2.2 spg) making plays once again. Newsom was electric at the IBCA Top-100 Showcase in July, and Goss is committed to the University of Toledo. From there, Junior forward Natalie Howard (2.1 ppg, 2.6 rpg in 11 games) and Senior forward Nyre Williams (2.1 ppg in 14 games) each saw a little time on the floor. Junior guard Micah Jett played in nearly every game but stands to up her production this year. Sophomore wing Kansas Robinson (9 games) also played a limited role as a Freshman. Freshmen Kirsten Clark, Taylor Guess, and Kaleah Toomer look to be a big part of the Giants’ future, so I’d anticipate them each getting looks early this season. Clark is the younger sister of former Ben Davis star Nia Clark. Pike saw some significant graduation losses in 2018, causing them to slip to a .500 record last year. With Kinnidy Garrard (13.5 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 1.7 bpg), Jada Roberson (12.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.7 apg, 2.6 spg), Eniya Madden (7.0 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 3.6 apg, 2.3 spg), Mercedez Moore (6.1 ppg, 4.6 rpg), Quaniya Alexander (2.3 ppg), Aniya Liggons (2.8 rpg), and Maria Armstead now exiting in the 2019 class, the Red Devils new look could take a minute to catch their groove. Sophomore wing Jaelynne Murray (8.4 ppg) has star potential, and she should be the go-to person moving forward. Junior post Arial Ford is a nice-sized athlete who can contribute, but she was injured and her availability this season is in doubt. Junior guard Joslynn Spears has seen the Varsity floor at times in the past, and she should transition seamlessly into a starting role. From there, it gets a little murky. Sophomore point guard Lauren Horton could be an option, as could Freshman wing Giavonnie Belton. Sophomore guard Jordyn Payton, Junior forward Sinaai Perry, plus a number of other Sophomores and Freshmen will likely learn on the fly. One team I think could step back into the limelight is Roncalli, as they return their top two scorers, and on most nights, that is enough. Senior wing Alana Vinson (15.9 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 2.3 apg) and Junior guard Maddie Bischoff (17.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.3 spg) have been a real problem for opponents to this point, and they’ve only gotten better since last season. Juniors Abbie (4.1 ppg, 3.1 rpg) & Sofie Carr (2.7 ppg, 5.5 rpg) are the next two most experienced returnees. From there, the production falls off quite a bit, as both Amanda Prather (5.1 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 2.7 apg) and Anna Bauer (5.0 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 2.1 spg) graduated. Freshman point guard Sydney Horton and Freshman guard Savannah Bischoff are talented enough to warrant a hard look early in the season, and they just might stick in the rotation for four years. Senior wing Kenzie Ross and Senior forward Ellie Hammerschmitt (2.2 rpg) are additional possibilities. Regardless, look for the Rebels to compete with just about anyone this season. Perry Meridian always seems to be right on the cusp of turning the proverbial corner, then they end up graduating important pieces. 6’3 forward Caitie Baird (10.4 ppg, 9.5 rpg, 3.3 apg, 3.5 bpg), wing Ariana Booker (8.6 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.5 apg), forward Molly Armstrong (3.1 ppg), and Megan Bolyard all graduated, but this year they could pick up where the left off. Junior forward Sally Mortensen (8.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg), Senior wing Savanna Pipes (6.0 ppg, 2.7 rpg), Junior guard Ali Dale (4.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg), Junior guard Tiaira White (2.6 ppg), and Junior forward Daija Wilson (2.6 ppg, 2.0 rpg) return after all seeing meaningful minutes a season ago, forming a nice core. After that, a number of newcomers could see time for the Falcons. Freshmen Maya Mundy and Ali Wisemann stand the best chance of rounding out the rotation, but three or four others could get an opportunity early this season. Decatur Central posted its most wins and its first winning season since 2009-2010. The graduation losses of Ajulu Thatha (12.3 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 2.0 spg) and Izzy Burr (8.0 ppg, 8.6 rpg) will undoubtedly affect the frontline of the Hawks, but just about everyone else is back. Senior guard Vanessa Wilson (11.8 ppg, 2.4 apg, 2.3 spg) is one of the tougher kids you’ll find. Senior point guard Kenzee Smith (7.2 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 3.7 apg, 3.3 spg) helps form a capable backcourt with Wilson. Junior front-liners Kenadi Brand (4.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg) and Mya Jackson return a great deal of Varsity experience. Freshman guard Cadence Thomas, Junior guard Maddie Wachnicki, and Junior wing Lorena Williams will likely play important roles this year. Southport hopes to rebound this season behind the return of nearly their entire roster. Ashley Raisor (6.9 ppg, 3.8 rpg) left via graduation, but just about everyone else is back. Senior point guard Lexie Green (11.6 ppg, 9.5 rpg, 3.5 apg, 2.8 spg, 1.5 bpg) is back, and she’s the pulse of this team. She had an outstanding Summer. Senior wing Kyra Duncan (11.8 ppg, 4.6 rpg) actually led the Cardinals in scoring and is back. Senior Kayden Casey (5.4 ppg, 3.4 rpg) is another solid wing who can help. Senior guard Brynna Reynolds (3.6 ppg), Junior post Maddy Newhouse (3.7 rpg) and Sophomore guard Miranda Deane were all a part of the primary rotation a season ago. Junior forward Taylor Lowry and Senior guard Bella Green are possibly in line for increased roles.   Sectional #12 Brownsburg (20-4) SAG 7; SOS 12 Avon (13-10) SAG 32; SOS 15 Mooresville (17-10) SAG 42; SOS 20 Plainfield (10-13) SAG 81; SOS 28 Terre Haute North Vigo (8-18) SAG 150; SOS 74 Terre Haute South Vigo (8-15) SAG 164; SOS 60 Sectional #12 is a little under-the-radar in terms of quality, but this Sectional always proves to be highly competitive, as there are big rivalries throughout the group. Brownsburg had an outstanding 2018-2019 season, and they were primed for a deep tournament run, but Junior point guard Ally Becki (13.4 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 4.4 apg, 3.5 spg) unfortunately injured her knee in the Sectional, and they couldn’t escape a good Mooresville team. This year Becki, a Ball State University commit, is back and ready to go. Senior guard Allison Bosse (15.7 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.9 spg) led the Bulldogs in scoring, and the Marian University commit returns to form a tough backcourt with Becki. Senior wing Mackenzie Stien (8.5 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.0 apg) is one of the more versatile players in the state, and she can plug in and play just about whatever role is needed. She is committed to the University of Indianapolis. Veronika Roberts (7.6 ppg, 5.2 rpg), Naomi Hege (4.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg), Aminah Thomas (3.7 ppg, 2.5 rpg), Kyleigh Leaf (3.5 ppg), and Madison Ross all graduated, so there will be plenty of opportunity for others to step up. Senior wing Mackenzie Bedrick (4.0 ppg, 2.8 rpg), Senior guard Tori Olmstead, Senior guard Megan Christian, and Junior front-liner Allison Shaffer all bring back significant experience. Freshman point guard Kailyn Terrell moves in from Madison, Indiana, and she adds a tough-nosed backup to Bosse & Becki. Sophomore forward Novalee Glass is a strong but skilled front-liner. Freshman post Quinci Thomas, Junior guard Kamary Leaf, and Sophomore forward Ra’Mya Milton could add even more depth for the Bulldogs. The last couple of seasons, Avon has jumped out to quick starts (8-2 in 2017-2018; 7-1 in 2018-2019), but they just haven’t been able to maintain that for a full season. This year they return a great deal of production and one of the best frontline duos in Central Indiana. The Orioles graduated 6’2 post Amani Freeman (6.0 ppg, 4.8 rpg), but the return of Senior forward Haley Nichols (11.8 ppg, 7.9 rpg), a University of Tennessee-Martin commit, and Junior forward Alex Richard (10.1 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 2.9 bpg), a Butler University recruit, are incredibly tough to contain when they are in together. Around the perimeter, the grouping of Senior point guard Brooke Shelton (6.7 ppg, 4.3 apg, 2.0 spg), Junior point guard Indiah Kendrick (5.0 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 2.0 apg, 2.0 spg), Senior wing Sidney Jones (4.5 ppg, 2.6 rpg), and Junior point guard Genesis Castro (4.5 ppg) are more than capable of controlling tempo. Bench support will be a question early in the season, but expect Junior Brileigh Cardwell, Junior Cori Micou, and Senior Logan Fulk to get first crack at it. Mooresville is your defending Sectional #12 Champion, but the Pioneers must now find a way to replace the production of 3-year starter Elise Scaggs (17.0 ppg, 5.6 rpg). Also graduating were Lauren Farb (9.6 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 2.2 spg), Elizabeth Gillin (2.8 ppg in 13 games), Dani Karr (2.7 ppg), Alex Sanders (2.2 ppg in 15 games), and Lauren Gott. There are still some solid pieces back, plus a couple of newcomers who can definitely help keep the Pioneers competitive this season. Senior wing Paige Gregory (11.1 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 2.1 apg) does a little of everything really well. Sophomore guard Maddie Denny (4.5 ppg) looks to make a significant jump from Year-1 to Year-2. Junior forward Addison Shafer (3.9 ppg, 2.5 rpg) and Senior forward Ava Meyer help up front. Sophomore guards Allison Graber and Abigail Young look to slide into prime roles, as does Junior forward Kirsten Dove. Freshman front-liner Bri Hoskins can also possibly help on the frontline this year. Plainfield was slightly under .500 last season, but they played a lot of younger, less-experienced players who are now seasoned and ready to win. In fact, Kaiah Haberkorn (7.1 ppg, 4.0 rpg) is the only graduation loss of note for the Quakers. Sophomore wing Ellie Wilkerson (12.0 ppg, 5.5 rpg) and Sophomore forward Jozee Rhodes (9.5 ppg, 5.2 rpg in 13 games) got their careers started off well, but Rhodes injured her knee midseason and missed several games. Junior wing Maycee Woods (9.5 ppg, 2.7 rpg) had a really nice Summer and could break out this season. Senior wing Sarah O’Day (6.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.0 apg) also had a nice grassroots season, and she is committed to Grace College. Sophomore guard Audrey Tallent (2.4 ppg), Junior wing Anna Tallent (2.4 ppg), Senior point guard Allie Good, and Senior wing Kyla Smith have all earned roles in the rotation. Sophomore forward Shannon Olejnik and Sophomore point guard Audrey Harper look to earn minutes this season. Terre Haute North Vigo has a nice collection of returnees who can help them get to ten wins this year, but they must find a way to replace the graduated Aundrea Kearschner, who did a lot for them. Senior post Shaelynn Bell has good size, skill, and ability, and she could become a force inside. Sophomore guard Zoe Stewart is a nice athlete who can create scoring opportunities for herself or others. Junior guard Anslee Michael is starting to come into her own as well. Younger sister Preslee Michael, a skilled Freshman guard, can be a game-changer for the Patriots this season. The graduation of star guard Amani Brown (18.6 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 3.7 apg, 2.2 spg) will have Terre Haute South Vigo scrambling to replace her production. Lauren England and Chaiela Edinburgh (3.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg) also graduated. Junior guard Zayda Hatfield (14.0 ppg, 3.9 rpg) should make up for some of Brown’s scoring, as Hatfield is an athletic and skilled combo guard. Junior guard Ally Pepperworth (7.2 ppg, 2.0 rpg) also has backcourt experience. After those two, there will be a lot of question marks for the Braves. Junior Natalie Morris (3.4 ppg in 10 games) is not returning. Senior post Michaela Cox (2.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg), Junior forward Kiersten Padgett (2.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg), and Junior guard Paityn Shipley have all seen Varsity action, but a couple of them need to step up big-time this season. From there, maybe Sophomore wing Paige Baldwin, Senior guard Lexi Swan, or Sophomore guard Carmen Ellis can help out.   Feature image is of K'Ja Talley of Warren Central High School. Photo courtesy of the Warren Central Athletics Twitter account.