Lady Demons Basketball Looks To The Future

Alcion Calderon, Author

The Lady Demons basketball season ended with a record of 9-18 overall and 0-11 in district. Though they did not get into post-season play, the future looks bright.

“This year was a positive and great learning experience,” Assistant Coach Anthony Moya said. “We unfortunately did not make it to the state tournament, but we have a lot that we learned and we have a lot to build off of for next year.”

Team member Aaliyah Lucero agreed: “I would say next year is strong. We bonded as a team. For the off-season [we’ll be] developing post, stronger boards, smarter passes, better handles.”

Assistant Coach Kirsten Beach stated, “Our varsity had a nine-game winning streak in the middle of the season. … The C-team went on a seven-game winning streak, so the coaches and the teams are very excited for their potential.”

This was the first season with a new head coach Cindy Roybal. Shooting Guard Mari Fernandez said, “It was great working with Coach Roybal. We learned a lot more than what we were expecting — all these simple things that she helped us to see. We have grown with her. … I hope that girls keep coming in and taking it seriously.”

Coach Moya explained, “During the off season this year, we are going to have a focus on fundamentals and improving our point guards and guards to our post players. We do intend on having a busy summer, playing in a lot of tournaments to build a stronger team so next year they’re ready to make some noise in our district and in our class and state.”

Center Amber Lucero said, “Highlights from this year would be being City Champs. … Off season is [about] getting to know each other and then staying positive and getting strong.”

Coach Moya added, “We have a very strong, young team, so I feel that sets a great foundation for a strong program. We have upperclassmen that are taking the lead, and that’s important for a team to thrive.”