Six freshmen will join three returning starters as Battiest looks to improve on last season’s 10-13 record. Head coach Chris Gibbs was encouraged by the group’s summer work and expects the incoming class to strengthen a lineup with experience at guard and forward.
Braylee Ward (5-8, Sr.) leads the returning group after earning MC6 all-conference recognition last season. She averaged 13.9 points, 9.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists, contributing as a scorer, rebounder and passer.
Ward gives Gibbs options on offense because she can attack from the perimeter, make 3-pointers and work inside. That versatility will be useful as he finds the right combinations of returning players and newcomers. Her production also gives Battiest someone to lean on while the freshmen settle into varsity basketball.
Lilly Armenta (5-1, Sr.) brings another senior presence at guard after averaging 4.0 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists. Ava Bohanan (5-0, Jr.) returns in the backcourt after averaging 3.6 points, 2.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists. Laney Hardaway (5-6, Jr.) adds experience at forward, coming off a season in which she averaged 2.0 points and 3.0 rebounds.
The returning players will have help from Lakynn Coulter (5-7, Fr.), who is expected to contribute immediately at guard. Gibbs likes her understanding of the game and defensive ability, along with her willingness to put the team first.
Coulter’s preparation and readiness to do extra work have also stood out. Those habits give her a good starting point as she takes on the demands of high school competition.
Katalina Bohanan (5-1, Fr.) adds another guard whose work habits and support of teammates have earned praise. Asher Axton (5-10, Fr.) brings size to the post, while Karbi Hensley, Preslie Walker and Emoree Dale give Gibbs more options from the freshman class. Analise Noah (5-3, So.) is another developing guard.
Gibbs has experienced players to build around, and a young group expected to contribute. The freshmen’s progress will help determine how Battiest’s rotation takes shape.
