Charlotte Observer Sweet 16 girls basketball countdown: Ardrey Kell Knights

Note: the Observer is revealing teams in its preseason Sweet 16 poll, but not the order. The order will be revealed in Saturday’s print editions

ARDREY KELL KNIGHTS

Head Coach: Jeff Busieck (3rd Year as Ardrey Kell head coach)

Coaching Career Record: 49-10

2015-16 Record: 24-7 (12-2 in the SoMeck8 conference/Advanced to 4A state quarterfinals)

Returning Starters: Kathleen Rogers, Sr., G (5-7); Journey Muhammad, Jr., PG (5-2); D’Shara Booker, Jr., F (6-0).

Other Key Returnees: Deniyah Lutz, Jr., G (5-8).

Key Newcomers: Kennedy Cash, Jr., G (5-7); Sydney Williams, Sr., G (5-6); Riley Littlejohn, So., F (5-9); Nia Griffin, So., F (5-9).

Outlook: The three-time, defending, SoMeck8 conference champions have won 49 games in the past two years (six straight 20-plus win seasons). This year, with an experience team back – led by senior Kathleen Rogers and junior D’Shara Booker, the Knights look to emerge as serious 4A state championship contenders.

--JAY EDWARDS

This story was originally published November 10, 2016 at 1:41 PM with the headline "Charlotte Observer Sweet 16 girls basketball countdown: Ardrey Kell Knights."