Observer-area girls basketball previews
Mecklenburg County Schools
ARDREY KELL
Head Coach: Jeff Buseick (2nd Year at Ardrey Kell)
2014-15 Record: Finished 25-3 overall, 14-0 in the SoMeck8 conference to win the league title.
Key Returning Starter: Chase Muhammad (5-7, G, Sr.)
Key Returnees: Journey Muhammad (5-5, G, So.); Kathleen Rogers (5-8, G, Jr.); Sophie Salaam (5-6, G, Sr.); Krysta Davis (6-0, F, Sr.); Danielle Griffin (6-2, F, Sr.); D
Key Newcomers: Annalise Heyward (5-6, G, Sr.); Hannah Huckaby (5-10, F, Sr.); Monae Brown (5-10, F, Sr.); Deniyah Lutz (5-8, G, So.)
Outlook: The Knights have only one starter back in Chase Muhammad (Wofford commit), but have plenty of experience with seven seniors
BUTLER
Head Coach: Mark Sanders (5th Year as Butler head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 17-9 overall, 9-3 in Southwestern 4A conference (tied for second)
Key Returning Starters: Fairen Sutton (5-4, PG, Sr.); Rinnah Green (5-8, G, So.); Keyanah Richardson (5-11, F, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Michaela Dixon (5-10, G, Fr.); Meghan Flowers (5-10, Fr, Jr.)
Outlook: Butler looks to contend in the always tough, Southwestern 4A conference with two-time defending, 4A state champion, Myers Park and Rocky River and will lean on guards, Fairen Sutton (15 ppg) and Rinnah Green as the catalysts.
CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC
Head Coach: Bobby Conrad (9th year as Charlotte Catholic head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 18-8 overall, including 9-5 in SoMeck8 conference
Key Returning Starters: Maggie Dupre (5-8, G, So.); Carrie Eberle (6-1, F, Sr.); Hannah Samuelson (5-5, G, Jr.); Kristal Mainsah (5-7, G, Jr.); Melissa Roulier (6-0, F, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Lorelei Roper (6-1, F, So.)
Outlook: The Cougars will look to challenge Ardrey Kell for conference supremacy and go deeper into the playoffs. They have all five starters back
CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN
Head Coach: Luke Boythe (2nd year as Charlotte Christian head coach)
2014-15 Notes: Finished 21-11 overall, 6-4 in the CISAA conference to finished third in league play
Key Returning Starters: Kerstie Phills (5-9, G, Sr.); Gerlea Patton (5-6, G, Jr.); Jaiden Mason (5-11, F, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: N/A
Outlook: The Knights were within a game of making it to the state championship last year and have an athletic team led by senior guard, Kerstie Phills (13.6 ppg), junior forward, Jaiden Mason, as they look to go deep into the playoffs again.
CHARLOTTE LATIN
Head Coach: Charisse Mapp (3rd year as Charlotte Latin head coach)
2014-15 Record: 16-10, 7-3 in the CISAA
Key Returning Starters: Kiera Dowell (5-8, G, Sr.); Claudia Dickey (5-10, PG, So.); Sydney Scott (5-10, F, So.)
Key Newcomers: Kathryn Vandiver (6-1, F, Fr.); Ruthie Jones (6-0, F, Fr.)
Outlook: The Hawks are finished as CISAA runner-up last season to Providence Day and are eager to build on their momentum from last year
COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF DAVIDSON
Head Coach: Jay Martin (2nd year as Community School of Davidson head coach)
2014-15 Record: 19-7, 11-1 in the South Piedmont 1A (SPC 1A) conference
Key Returning Starters: Karli Fekete (5-9, F, Sr.); Bridgette Mitchell (5-8, F, Sr.); Caroline Nageotte (5-7, G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Meredith Suggs (6-0, F-C, So.)
Outlook: The Spartans have the size and taletn to defend their SPC 1A title with five seniors in the starting lineup led by Karli Fekete (11 ppg) and Caroline Nageotte (7.4 ppg), but will be challenged by Lincoln Charter, Pine Lake Prep and more.
COVENANT DAY
Head Coach: Zach Turner (4th year as Covenant Day head coach)
2014-15 Record: 14-15 (5-5 in the CISAA)
Key Returning Starters: Sarah Billiard (6-0, F, Jr.); Alexis Klohr (5-4, G, So.); Erica VanDusen (6-0, F, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Madeline Crumpler (5-4, G, Fr.); Lily Summerville (5-8, F, So.)
Outlook: Covenant Day once again must take on a brutal CISAA conference slate, but have the talent, including all-conference forward, Sarah Billiard (18 ppg, 16 rpg), to compete for a playoff bid again this season.
DAVIDSON DAY
Head Coach: Jeff LaFave (1st year as Davidson Day head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 24-5 overall, 10-0 in the NCISAA Piedmont conference to win the league title.
Key Returning Starters: Maya Caldwell (6-0, G-F, Jr.); Parker Tompkins (6-1, C-F, Jr.); Courtney Meadows (5-4, PG, So.); Josie Wiles (6-2, C, Fr.); Alexis Bradford (5-4, G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Anika Riley (5-9, F, Jr.); Kate Roberts (5-5, G, Fr.); Ryann Sinclair (5-6, G, Fr.)
Outlook: The Patriots were painfully close to make a second consecutive appearance in the NCISAA 2A state championship game. With five starters back, led by all-state guard, Maya Caldwell (24 ppg, 10 rpg, major Division I recruit) and forward, Parker Tompkins and sophomore point guard, Courtney Meadows (West Virginia commit), Davidson Day should be state title contenders again this season.
EAST MECKLENBURG
Head Coach: Dwight Miller (2nd year as East Mecklenburg head coach)
2014-15 Record: 4-18, 3-9 in the Southwestern 4A conference (SW4A)
Key Returning Starters: Miya Bull (5-11, F-C, Sr.); Zhamya Wills (5-10, F, Sr.); LaBria King (5-8, G, Sr.); Kahadejah Davis (5-7, G, Jr.); Aprella Kemp (5-10, F-C, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Serena McDuffie (5-5, G, So.); Jordan Harding (5-9, G, Jr.); Shebeya Smalls (5-9, G, Jr.)
Outlook: East Mecklenburg won only four games a year ago, but with all five starters back in the lineup, led by all-conference, senior Miya Bull, the Eagles appear ready to move up the SW4A ladder and make a run at a playoff bid.
GARINGER
Head Coach: Aaron Brown (2nd year as Garinger head coach)
2014-15 Record: 4-19, 3-9 in the Southwestern 4A (SW4A)
Key Returning Starters: Jasmine Sanders (6-0, G, Jr.); Brielle Whitman (5-11, F, Sr.); Vivica Clyburn (5-5, G, Sr.); Destiny Rorie (5-7, G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Doctor Miller (6-0, F, Jr.)
Outlook: With four starters back, led by two-time all-conference guard, Jasmine Sanders (20 ppg), the Wildcats are eager to climb up the SW4A standings and could be a dangerous match-up in the 4A playoffs.
HARDING
Head Coach: Jonathan Simmons (1st year as Harding head coach)
2014 Record: 2-18, 2-12 in the SoMeck8 conference
Key Returning Starters: Shareka McNeill (5-4, G, Jr.); Shameka McNeill (5-4, G, Jr.); Amia Huey (5-7, F, So.)
Key Newcomers: Akira McNeil (5-6, G); Destiny Morgan (5-10, F)
Outlook: The Rams will look to junior guards, twin sisters Shameka and Shareka McNeill, to help them move up the conference standings and get back in the playoff hunt.
HICKORY GROVE
Head Coach: Matthew Trent (6th season as Hickory Grove head coach)
2014-15 Record: 20-9, 8-4 in the Metrolina Athletic conference (MAC)
Key Returning Starters: Haley Bearden (5-6, G, Jr.); Holly Bennett (PG, Jr.); Imani Cherry (SF, Fr.)
Key Newcomers: MaKayla Smith (PG, Fr.); Nya Tillery (SF, 8th grade)
Outlook: The Lions get three starters back from a 20-win team, but will have to battle teams like Northside Christian and Concord First Assembly to contend for the MAC title as they look to secure a better playoff seed.
HOUGH
Head Coach: Jason Buzzard (1st year as Hough girls
2014-15 Record: Finished 17-7 overall, 9-5 in the MECKA 4A conference (tied third)
Key Returning Starters: Alex Denny (5-8, F, Sr.); Renee Alquiza (5-11, F, So.); Gabby Gianikos (5-6, G, Jr.); Hailey Gipson (5-5, G, So.)
Key Newcomers: Kaila Thompson (5-5, G, Jr.); Bentley Higby (5-9, F, So.); Dori Lane (6-1, C, Jr.)
Outlook: Former Rocky River boys
INDEPENDENCE
Head Coach: Lauren Galvani (1st year as Independence head coach)
2014-15 Record: 0-24, 0-12 in the Southwestern 4A (SW4A) conference
Key Returning Starters: Camille Small (5-9, G, So.); Tiffany Reed (5-10, F, Jr.); Daishua Gregg (5-3, G, Sr.); Laryn Sullivan (5-7, G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Precious Spurlock (F, So.); Sherona Smith (G, Fr.)
Outlook: The Patriots were winless last year, but return four starters, led by all-conference guard, Camille Small (11. 5 ppg), which gives them reasons to believe they can be a much more competitive team in the 2015-16 campaign.
LAKE NORMAN CHARTER
Head Coach: Bobby Williams (9th year as Lake Norman Charter head coach)
2014-15 Record: 11-13, 8-6 in the Big South conference
Key Returning Starters: Sarah Novroski (5-11, C, Sr.); Carly Russ (5-11, F, Sr.); Summer Taylor (5-5, G, Jr.); Kezia Johnson (5-7, G, So.); Vanessa Bissinger (5-5, F, So.)
Key Newcomers: Megan Moody (5-5, G, So.)
Outlook: The Knights had a rebuilding season last year winning only 11 games, after averaging 22 wins per season the previous five campaigns. But with five starters back, Coach Williams and Co. are looking to make another run at a Big South title and make a postseason run.
MALLARD CREEK
Head Coach: Clarence Johnson (7th year as Mallard Creek head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 18-8 overall, 9-5 in the MECKA 4A conference
Key Returning Starters: Kayla Brown (5-7, G, Jr.); E
Key Newcomers: Chantel Williams (5-10, G/F, Sr.)
Outlook: The Mavericks return all five starters from a team that won 18 games a year ago (conference runner-up), led by junior guard Kayla Brown (10.5 ppg), and get all-conference guard/forward, Chantel Williams (14.8 ppg, 7.1 rpg in 2013-14 season) back after she missed last season with an ACL injury. Mallard Creek looks to challenge Hopewell for the MECKA 4A conference crown, and will be a dangerous opponent in the postseason.
MYERS PARK
Head Coach: Barbara Nelson (4th Year as Myers Park head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 29-1 overall and 12-0 in SW4A conference play to win the league title.
Key Returning Starters: Chanin Scott (5-11, F, Sr.); McKenna Haire (5-10, G, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: N/A
Outlook: The two-time defending 4A state champion have a new challenge without all-state players like Aliyah Mazyck and Rydeiah Rogers in the lineup. But Coach Nelson and Co.
NORTH MECKLENBURG
Head Coach: Jennifer Baker (7th year as North Mecklenburg head coach)
2014-15 Record: 12-12, 5-9 in the MECKA 4A
Key Returning Starters: Dynasty Heyward (5-6, Jr, G); ShaNyia Lester (5-6, G, Sr.); Monell Dunlap (5-11, F, Jr.); Naziyah Hayes (5-10, F, So.); Courtney Lewis (5-7, G, So.)
Key Newcomers: N/A
Outlook: The Vikings will be much improved with all five starters back in the lineup, led by the dynamic all-conference backcourt duo of Dynasty Heyward (15.6 ppg) and ShaNyia Lester (13 ppg). North Mecklenburg looks to contend for MECKA 4A conference title and become a factor in the postseason, again.
NORTHSIDE CHRISTIAN
Head Coach: Ashley McGuirt (3rd year as Northside Christian head coach)
2014-15 Record: 26-4, 14-0 in the Metrolina Athletic Conference (MAC)
Key Returning Starters: Eleah Parker (6-4, C, Jr.); Ja
Key Returnees/Newcomers: Britt Aller (So.); Jessyka Leak (So.); Shamani Stafford (So.) Aja Jones (Fr.) ARDREY KELL
Outlook: The Knights lost a heartbreaker in the NCISAA 2A state championship game to Carolina Day. Now, with four starters back, led by 6-foot-4, junior center, Eleah Parker (No. 49 in the class of 2017, according to ESPN), the Knights are eager to get back to get back to the final game and win it all.
PROVIDENCE DAY
Head Coach: Josh Springer (9th year as Providence Day head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 27-3 overall last year; 10-0 in CISAA conference play to win the league title.
Returning Starters: Erin Whalen (6-1, F, Sr.); Janelle Bailey (6-4, C, Jr.); Kennedy Boyd (5-6, G, So.); Celine Ives (5-10, F, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Tori Powell (5-7, G, Sr.)
Outlook: The Chargers have won six straight NCISAA 3A state titles and eight of the last nine championships overall. With all-state performers like Erin Whalen (16 ppg/Vanderbilt commit) and Janelle Bailey (18 ppg/Lost of D-I offers), they expect nothing less than another state crown this season, again.
ROCKY RIVER
Head Coach: Epiphany Woodson (2nd Year as Rocky River head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 22-5 overall; 9-3 in the Southwestern 4A conference (tied second).
Returning Starters: Ariana Nance (5-8, SG, Jr.); Tee Dorsey (5-6, G, Jr.); Jordan Soares (5-10, Fr, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Cianie Jallah (6-5, C-F, Jr.); Andresia Alexander (5-2, PG, Fr.)
Outlook: The Ravens won a school-record 22 games last season and have several key pieces back in all-SW4A junior guards, Ariana Nance (16 ppg) and Tee Dorsey, back to lead the charge for a team that some believe can challenge Myers Park for the league title, and go deep into the 4A playoffs.
SOUTH MECKLENBURG
Head Coach: Cristie Mitchell (5th year as South Mecklenburg head coach)
2014-15 Record: 15-9, 10-4 in the SoMeck8 conference to finish second.
Key Returning Starters: Ali Fitch (5-4, G, Sr.); Aja Stevens (5-6, G, Sr.); Courtney Sanderson (5-4, G, Sr.); A
Key Newcomers: Shemiah Johnson (5-1, G, Sr.); Jadin Gladden (5-8, G-F, So.)
Outlook: The Sabres finished as SoMeck8 conference runner-up last season and with four starters back, led by the all-conference backcourt of Ali Fitch (12.6 ppg) and Aja Stevens (8.3 ppg), they are eager to challenge for a league championship, while also look to be a factor in the postseason.
VANCE
Head Coach: Timothy Fields (3rd Year at Vance)
2014-15 Record: Finished 3-20 overall, 0-14 in the MECKA 4A.
Key Returning Starters: Ahlana Smith (5-9, G, So.); Imani Payne (5-5, G, Jr.); Dionna Turner-Kiser (5-9, F, Jr.); Asia Richardson (5-0, G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Dazia Lawrence (5-7, G, Fr.); Tori Reid (5-9, G-F, Fr.); Arie Richardson (5-0, G, Sr.)
Outlook: The Cougars have struggled in Coach Tim Fields
WEST CHARLOTTE
Head Coach: Reginald Mobley (8th year as West Charlotte head coach)
2014-15 Record: 9-15, 5-9 in the MECKA 4A conference
Key Returning Starters: O’Marri Holland (5-5, PG, So.); Tatyana Thompson (5-5, G, Jr.); Tykema Nesbit (6-0, F, So.); Lauren Melton (5-11, F, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Laila Barnes (6-0, F, Fr.); Anisa Ali (5-9, F-G, Fr.); DiNiya Hamilton (5-7, G, Fr.)
Outlook: The Lions are optimistic about this season with four starters back
WEST MECKLENBURG
Head Coach: Jarvis Davis (1st year head coach)
2014-15 Record: 12-12, 6-8 in the SoMeck8 conference
Key Returning Starters: Tayzha Allen (5-5, PG, Sr.); Melia Paige (5-9, SF, Sr.); Latasia Warner (5-10, F, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Kalie Mayo (5-6, SG, Jr.); Alyssa Thompson (6-1, F, Jr.)
Outlook: First-year coach, Jarvis Davis, looks to breathe new life into the program as he looks to push tempo early and often. West Meck has three, senior starters back in point guard, Tayzha Allen and forwards, Melia Paige and Latasia Warner as well as newcomers, juniors, Kalie Mayo and Alyssa Thompson, whom Davis believes will make an instant impact and help his team challenge for the SoMeck8 conference title.
Observer Region Teams
A.L. BROWN
Head Coach: Lamont Johnson (1st year as A.L. Brown head coach)
2014-15 Record: 14-9, 6-8 in MECKA 4A conference
Key Returning Starters: Mariah Howard (5-8, G-F, Sr.); Sheyma Stanback (5-5, G, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: N/A
Outlook: The Wonders will look to finish in the upper half of the MECKA 4A standings and make the playoffs again this season, but it won
CANNON SCHOOL
Head Coach: Jessica Kulp (2nd Year as Cannon School head coach)
2014-15 Record: 4-17, 0-10 in the CISAA conference
Key Returning Starters: Caroline Campbell (5-10, G, Jr.); Izzy Sofio (5-5, G, Sr.); Maren McCrary (5-9, G-F, Jr.); Sierra Davis (5-11, F, So.)
Key Newcomers: Julia Fricke (5-8, G, Jr./German exchange student); Sofia Sohlberg (5-10, F, Jr./Finland exchange student)
Outlook: The Cougars finished last in the CISAA last season and it won
CENTRAL CABARRUS
Head Coach: Brandon Blalock (4th year as Central Cabarrus
2014-15 Record: 11-13, 8-8 in the South Piedmont conference (SPC)
Key Returning Starters: Mahaley Holt (5-4, G, Jr.); Kasey Rowden (5-4, G, Jr.); Justice Wallace (5-10, F, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Elanna Peay (5-9, F, Jr.); Jania Ikard (5-6, G, Jr.); Riley Tucker (5-10, G, Fr.)
Outlook: The Vikings boast a dynamic backcourt in guards, Mahaley Holt (18.9 ppg, 6.5 apg) and Kasey Rowden (10.1 ppg). Central Cabarrus believes they can challenge for an SPC championship and get past the opening round of 4A state playoffs.
CHERRYVILLE
Head Coach: Franklin Allen (3rd year as Cherryville head coach)
2014-15 Record: 5-22, 1-11 in the South Piedmont 1A (SPC 1A) conference
Key Returning Starters: Cita Banks (5-6, G, Jr.); Camryn Bess (5-8, F, So.); Lauren Horney (5-6, G, Sr.); Rikalya Kirkland (5-0, PG)
Key Newcomers: N/A
Outlook: Cherryville struggled last season finishing last in the SPC 1A conference, but get four starters back, including all-conference performers, Camryn Bess (13 ppg, 11 rpg) and Cita Bankes (10 ppg, 5 rpg), who will give them a chance to make a huge jump in the league and compete for a postseason berth.
CLOVER
Head Coach: Sherer Hopkins (17th year as Clover head coach)
2014-15 Record: 14-15, 4-8 in the Region III (4A)
Key Returning Starters: Lilly Wallace (5-10, F, Jr.); Renee Carter (5-11, F, So.)
Key Newcomers: N/A
Outlook: With only two starters back in forwards, Renee Carte and Lilly Wallace it won
CONCORD
Head Coach: Scott Parkin (2nd year as Concord head coach)
2014-15 Record: 6-18, 3-13 in the South Piedmont conference (SPC)
Key Returning Starters: Jada Black (6-0, F-C, Sr.); Jalliyah Cannady (5-7, G, Sr.); Jamya Patton (5-3, PG, Sr-.)
Key Newcomers: Makayla Davis (5-9, G-F, So.)
Outlook: The Spiders have great chemistry and experience on a team that is eager to prove it can get back in the playoff picture. Senior forward, Jada Black (7 ppg, 7 rpg) and Jalliyah Cannaday (9 ppg) will both plays major roles in how far this team can go.
CONCORD FIRST ASSEMBLY
Head Coach: Bill Middlebrooks (9th year as Concord First Assembly head coach)
2014-15 Record: 24-6, 12-2 in the Metrolina Athletic conference (MAC) to finished second-place
Key Returning Starters: Zaria Wright (5-8, G, Jr.); Emma Brooks (5-7, G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Jalisa Rushing (5-9, F/Mallard Creek transfer)
Outlook: The Eagles were within a game of playing in the NCISAA 2A state championship, and with all-state guard, Zaria Wright (18.5 ppg, 5 rpg, 5 apg, 4 spg) and senior captain, Emma Brooks back, they believe they can make another run at a MAC and state title but will have to battle league foe, Northside Christian for both crowns.
COX MILL
Head Coach: Moses Smith (2nd year as Cox Mill head coach)
2014-15 Record: 5-19, 4-12 in the South Piedmont conference (SPC)
Key Returning Starters: Christa Hill (6-2, C, Sr.); Rachel Barker (5-5, G, Jr.); Maddy Rinkus (6-1, PF, Jr.); Kristen Stafford (5-9, F, Sr.)
Key Returnee: Maddie Lewis (5-4, G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Koby Harvey (5-8, G, So.); Hannah Wilson (5-9, F, Fr.)
Outlook: The Chargers return four starters this season
CUTHBERTSON
Head Coach: Joel Allen (6th year as Cuthbertson head coach)
2014-15 Record: 18-8, 7-3 in the Southern Carolinas
Key Returning Starters: Breanna McAdams (6-0, F, Sr.); Sarah Moll (5-6, G, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: Kayla Young (5-5, G, Fr.); Kaylin McKinney (5-5, G, Fr.); Brooke Austin (5-8, F, Fr.)
Outlook: The Cavaliers look to battle for the SCC title, and have all-conference forward, Breanna McAdams (10 ppg, 5 rpg) back to lead a team that has won 54 games in the last three years, but wants to take the next step in going deeper into the postseason.
EAST GASTON
Head Coach: David Hayes (3rd year as East Gaston head coach)
2014-15 Record: 14-11, 10-4 in the Big South conference
Key Returning Starters: Brooklyn Armstrong (5-6, G, Sr.); Deaja Smith (5-6, PG, Jr.); Sa
Key Newcomers: Shai Robinson (5-11, C-F, Jr.)
Outlook: The Warriors return three starters, with senior guard, Brooklyn Armstrong (10 ppg, 4 spg) leading a tough, defensive-minded team that believes it can contend for a Big South conference title and be a factor deep into the postseason.
EAST LINCOLN
Head Coach: Jason Otey (3rd year as East Lincoln head coach)
2014-15 Record: 8-14, 5-9 in the Southern District 7 (SD7)
Key Returning Starters: Destiny Johnson (5-7, G, So.); Allysa Fuller (Sr.); Kendall White (Jr.); Caira McClain (So.)
Key Newcomers: Eboni Tinsley (Jr./Lincoln Charter transfer); Grace Kinsch (So.); Kristal Henderson (Sr.)
Outlook: After winning 11 games combined in three seasons from (2012-14), the Mustangs are head back in right direction, going 8-14 last year. With all-conference sophomore guard, Destiny Johnson (20.1 ppg 9 rpg, 4 apg, 3.7 spg) leading the way, East Lincoln hopes to continue their ascent up the SD7 standings and into the playoffs.
FOREST HILLS
Head Coach: Matt Sides (2nd year as Forest Hills
2014-15 Record: 10-15, 5-5 in the Rocky River conference
Key Returning Starters: Raven Mobley (6-2, F, Sr.); Janora Brown (5-4, G, Sr.); Sheona Woodlawn (5-7, PG, So.); Alicia Benson (5-7, F)
Key Newcomers: Destinee Allen (5-6, G, Jr.); Jelaysia Howard (5-5, G, Fr.)
Outlook: The Yellow Jackets are eager to prove they can win the Rocky River conference, as four starters return, including senior forward, Raven Mobley (11 ppg, 8 rpg) and sophomores, Alicia Benson (9 ppg, 5 rpg) and Sheona Woodham (10 ppg). Forest Hills also can put themselves in position to go deep into the playoffs.
FORT MILL
Head Coach: Brett Childers (3rd Year as Fort Mill head coach)
2014-15 Record: 7-16, 3-9 in Region III (4A)
Key Returning Starters: Meredith Christopher (5-8, G, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: Amiah Lindsay (6-1, C, Sr.)
Outlook: The Yellow Jackets look to make a move up the Region III (4A) standings, but it won
GASTON DAY
Head Coach: Kristin Gary (2nd year as Gaston Day head coach)
2014-15 Record: 8-16, 5-9 in the Metrolina Athletic conference (MAC)
Key Returning Starters: Jenesai Mohammad (5-9, G, Sr.); Katie Elder (5-9, F, So.)
Key Newcomers: N/A
Outlook: The Spartans face an uphill battle in one of the NCISAA 2A state
HICKORY RIDGE
Head Coach: Tolonda Simmons (3rd year as Hickory Ridge head coach)
2014-15 Record: 19-6 overall, 13-3 in the South Piedmont conference (SPC) to tie for second in the league.
Returning Starters: Laura McManimen (5-6, Sr., G); Gabby Smith (5-11, F, So.); Stacia Means (5-8, SG, Sr.); Sherise Jones (6-0, C, So.); Sydney Miller (6-0, F, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: Nia Daniels (5-9, F)
Outlook: Coach Simmons returns all five starters from a team that won 19 games last season, led by all-conference guard, Laura McManimen (13.6 ppg) and double, double machine, Gabby Smith (13.6 ppg). Hickory Ridge looks to win the SPC conference title and go much deeper than their second round run last year.
HIGHLAND TECH
Head Coach: Phillip All (5th year as Highland Tech head coach)
2014-15 Record: 9-14, 5-7 in the South Piedmont 1A conference
Key Returning Starters: Casey Almond (F, So.); Sonia Okoroji (G, So.);
Key Returnee: Alexis Brogden (G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Kayla Arrowwood (G, Sr.); Judah Tucker (F, So./East Gaston transfer); Olivia King (G, Fr.); Marjani Onafowora (F, Fr.)
Outlook: The Rams finished in top half of the SPC 1A in their first year in the league, making the first round of the playoffs. This year, Highland Tech looks to finish higher in the conference and compete for another playoff berth.
INDIAN LAND
Head Coach: Natasha Rogers (5th year as Indian Land head coach)
2014-15 Record: 14-7, 10-2 to win Region III (2A)
Key Returning Starters: Kate Komorous (G, Sr.); Nia Pressley (F, Jr.); Nikiyea Gordon (G, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: Adriana Wilson (G, So.); Breana Yacoob (G, So.)
Outlook: The Warriors have a mature team with six returnees, led by all-region performers, Nia Pressley (17.7 ppg, 9.6 rpg) and Kate Komorous (10 ppg) as they look to repeat as Region III (2A) champions, while making another deep playoff run (2A state quarterfinalist last year).
JAY M. ROBINSON
Head Coach: Justin Thomas (1st year as Jay M. Robinson head coach)
2014-15 Record: 16-8 (9-5 in the MECKA 4A conference)
Key Returning Starters: None
Key Newcomers: Brystal Hamilton (6-1, C-F, FILL); Destiney Johnson (5-4, PG, Sr.); Chemdiya Jordan (5-11, PF, Jr.)
Outlook: The Bulldogs have a lot of new faces after losing all six seniors, all five starters and Coach Lin Smithson. But new coach, Justin Thomas and Co. still believe they have the talent to finish in the top half of the South Piedmont conference and contend for a playoff berth.
MARVIN RIDGE
Head Coach: Marshall Smith (2nd year as Marvin Ridge head coach)
2014-15 Record: 0-24, 0-10 in the Southern Carolinas
Key Returning Starters: Casey Bigham (5-7, PG, Sr.); Maddy Griffin (5-10, PF, Sr.); Julianna Lombard (5-10, SF, Jr.); Megan Glover (5-3, SG, So.); Cassie Sullivan (5-10, SG, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Sara Hardwick (5-8, G-F, Fr.)
Outlook: The Mavericks were winless last season, but have all five starters back
METROLINA CHRISTIAN
Head Coach: Jarmark Parker (4th year as Metrolina Christian head coach)
2014-15 Record: 9-18, 5-9 in the Metrolina Athletic conference (MAC)
Key Returning Starters: Bella Sheprow (5-7, PG, So.); Caroline Wallace (5-6, G, Sr.); Hannah Gordon (5-10, C, Sr.); Caitlyn Logan (5-10, C, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: Naj Bibbs (6-1, F, Jr./Piedmont transfer)
Outlook: The Warriors return four starters, and get Piedmont transfer, forward, Naj Bibbs (15 ppg, 15 rpg last year), which will give a balanced lineup the go-to player that they need to move up the MAC standings and try to make a move in the postseason.
MONROE
Head Coach: Leroy Osborne (1st year as Monroe girls
2014-15 Record: 23-5, 11-1 in the Rocky River conference (RRC)
Key Returning Starters: Tanaja Stevenson (5-5, PG, Jr.); Jehriyia Smith (5-8, F, Jr.); Tyriona Houston (5-9, F, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Angel Roland (6-1, C, Fr.); Destiny Wallace (5-4, SG, Jr.); Kiyra Triplett (5-6, F, Jr.)
Outlook: The Redhawks return a strong core, including Tyriona Houston (7.7 ppg, 8.4 rpg) and Tanaja Stevenson (8.8 ppg), from a team that won 23 games and got to the 2A West Regional final. Now, Monroe looks to contend for another RRC title and make another deep run into the playoffs.
MOORESVILLE
Head Coach: Andy Sparks (4th year as Mooresville head coach)
2014-15 Record: 11-12, 7-7 in the North Piedmont conference (NPC)
Key Returning Starters: Sara Vanhoy (5-6, PG, Jr.); Kirsten Ingram (5-10, F, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: Sehrena Hull (5-8, F, Jr./Va. Tech volleyball commit); Somer Wilson (5-9, F, Fr.)
Outlook: The Blue Devils look to build on their first appearance in the 4A playoffs last year and have an athletic team led by juniors, Sara Vanhoy and Kirsten Ingram, that will battle for an NPC crown while looking to return to the postseason.
ROCK HILL
Head Coach: Kennan Orr (6th year as Rock Hill head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 19-8 overall, 10-2 in Region III play to finish second to Northwestern.
Key Returning Starters: Madison Hendrix (5-6, PG, Sr.); Monique Stevenson (5-3, G, Sr.); Modesty Fobbs (5-10, F, Sr.); Kendall Lahr (5-3, G, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Brooklyn O
Outlook: The Bearcats return four starters and are loaded with backcourt talent
SOUTH IREDELL
Head Coach: Michael Fisher (7th year as South Iredell head coach
2014-15 Record: 21-4, 13-1 in the North Piedmont conference (NPC)
Key Returning Starters: Alexandra Dawes (6-0, C, Sr.); Taylor Berg (5-9, G, Sr.); Sara Heiligenthaler (6-2, C, Jr.); Carson Labelle (5-7, G, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: Hailey Durham (5-10, G, Jr.); Haley Rife (5-6, G, Jr.); Abbey Goodrum (5-5, G, So.)
Outlook: The Vikings have the size and talent to repeat as NPC champions, led by Alexandra Dawes (5 ppg, 14 rpg), but will have to do so without all-everything forward, Julia Scoles (22.5 ppg), who is graduating early (North Carolina volleyball).
SOUTH POINTE (SC)
Head Coach: Stephanie Butler (3rd year as South Pointe head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 20-5 overall, 8-2 in Region III (3A) (second)
Key Returning Starters: Izzy Clark (5-9, G-F, Sr.); T
Key Returning Player: T
Key Newcomers: Scarlett Gilmore (5-6, G, Fr.)
Outlook: The Stallions nearly knocked off AAA state champion, Lancaster, twice in the regular season a year ago, and have the talent
UNION ACADEMY
Head Coach: Angelia Jones
2014-15 Record: 4-13, 2-8 in the Yadkin Valley
Key Returning Starters: Anna Sidders (G, Sr.); Lauryn Boyd (F-C, So.)
Key Newcomers: Ashlyn Hord (F-C, So.)
Outlook: The Cardinals have a defensive-minded team that plays hard, but they need some consistent scorers to emerge -- like senior, Anna Sidders or sophomore, Lauryn Boyd -- if they are going to move up the Yadkin Valley conference standings.
WEDDINGTON
Head Coach: Ryun Cook (7th year as Weddington head coach)
2014-15 Record: Finished 29-2 overall, 10-0 in the Southern Carolinas
Key Returning Starters: Remi Roberts (6-1, F, Jr.); Molly Mann (6-0, F, Sr.); Taylor Schuster (5-7, G, Sr.);
Key Returners: Erin Addison (5-5, G, So.); Laurel McCarthy (5-8, G, Sr.); Blaire Brown (5-4, G, So.)
Outlook: Life without McDonalds
WEST IREDELL
Head Coach: David Parsons (3rd year as West Iredell head coach)
2014-15 Record: 13-11, 5-9 in the North Piedmont conference (NPC)
Key Returning Starters: Tatum Boggs (G, So.); Quay McGee (PG, Sr.)
Key Newcomers: Shimiah Oglesby (G, Jr./Statesville transfer); MacKaden Inscore (F, So.)
Outlook: West Iredell has a huge challenge in the NPC, as most league teams are bigger and stronger. But after their first winning season in a decade, the Warriors
YORK
Head Coach: Marilyn Milton (1st year at York head coach)
2014-15 Record: 7-16, 2-12 in Region III (4A)
Key Returning Starters: Makala Love (5-5, PG, Jr.); Corri Peeler (5-5, G, Jr.); Megan McCarthy (5-4, G, Jr.); Heather Pumphrey (5-10, F, Jr.)
Key Newcomers: Ramsey Greene (5-4, G, Fr.); Natalee Graham (5-8, G, So.); Sara Morris (6-1, F, So.)
Outlook: New coach, Marilyn Milton, takes over a hard-working team that returns four starters, led by juniors Makala Love (8 ppg) and Megan McGarity (8 ppg) which gives them a good chance to move up the Region III (4A) standings.
This story was originally published November 14, 2015 at 5:39 PM with the headline "Observer-area girls basketball previews."