In the conversation about premier 2A teams across the Palmetto State, some may forget that head coach Jeanette Wilder’s Tigers won the 2A state crown simply two short seasons ago. Means is looking to get Saluda back to that lofty point as she has embarked on her senior campaign. She plays two sports with volleyball being another discipline of hers outside of basketball. She put together a banner season last year for the Tigers as she averaged 20.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.6 steals per game on the 19 occasions that she suited up in Saluda’s signature purple uniform. Saluda finished with a 16-4 record last season (8-2 in conference).

(*PGH Preseason Player of the Year*)rnThe Tigers were 2A champions two seasons ago and coach Jeanette Wilder is in search of the formula that can get Saluda back to the euphoria it felt two seasons ago. Means looks to be an integral element to that plan. She keeps her hands outstretched as a defender, can drain midrange jumpers and will do plenty of work on the glass. In addition, she distributes the ball with efficiency, can clog an opposing team’s passing lanes with how she will intercept said passes and get out in transition for high-percentage baskets. Means is a two-sport athlete who also participates in volleyball alongside her foray into hoops.

The Tigers were in defense of their 2A state championship from last season. Even though coach Jeannete Wilder’s Saluda squad was unsuccessful in its title defense, she was definitely appreciate in what she got from her veteran star who also plays volleyball. Means can light up a scoreboard with the points she puts on said scoreboard and also is a force to be reckoned with on the glass. She is an asset to a team on defense as she is as an offensive player and this proves itself with the additional possessions that she can create. Means was part of that 2020-21 championship-winning rendition.

As Saluda is a team that is not that far removed from winning a 2A state championship in 2020-21, the Tigers and coach Jeanette Wilder have proven themselves worthy of respect. Means can play at either of the guard positions in the backcourt and is skilled at getting past defenders with her speed and ball handling skills. She will absorb contact and get to the free throw line. Leave her with space behind the 3-point arc and one can count on said triple being buried. Shot-blocking, getting out in transition and collecting steals are other elements to Means’ game.