By: Marin Murray

With three district games complete, the Lady Eagles basketball team hopes to turn it around in time for playoffs and overcome their 5-19 record.

 “I think we’re getting better and better each game,” sophomore small forward Samara Padgitt said.  “I think it’s going to be a good season.”

The Lady Eagles started off their season playing 11 games in a span of 14 days. The team, with only one senior, gain experienced quickly.

 “I would say one of their strengths is just the fact that they get after it and the fact that they work really hard,” first-year head coach Brenda Andress said. “They’re not afraid to get on the floor or hustle. That for sure is one of the things that has helped us be successful so far.”

Andress, who taught here for two years before being named head coach, watched this team play before and is excited for the challenge.

“I had watched quite a few of the basketball games, so I knew that there was a lot of talent and I knew that there was a lot of this heart within this team,” Andress said. “That is what kind of drew me to want to coach these young ladies. There is for sure a lot to learn, but it’s very rewarding.”

The team, who has already tallied more wins than last year, feels ready for what district play will bring.

“Going into district, there are teams we know we can beat,” senior shooting guard and strong forward Shaliyah Christian-Stevenson said. “We just have to take the next step forward to get there.”

Despite their 0-3 start to district play, the Lady Eagles know they can bounce back and return to their winning ways.

 “The strength of our team is that we can come back,” Padgitt said. “Even if we’re at a low place we still give all of our effort, regardless of the result.”

Out of the seven teams in District 2-6A, only the top four will receive playoff berths. The Lady Eagles are currently at the bottom of the district standings, but a playoff spot is still possible.

 “One of our goals is that we want to make the playoffs,” Andress said. “That is something that every single game will count towards, but I think if we continue to improve like we are right now then that’s a goal we can achieve.”

The Lady Eagles face the Odessa High Lady Bronchos January 7 at 6 p.m. in Odessa.