The Warren Central Lady Warriors have started their season with competitive energy, strong individual performances and a growing team chemistry as they move deeper into conference play. After last year's season, having a record of 13-9, the Lady Warriors are bringing their returning talent back, with the addition of new players, and they are ready to have a competitive season.
With a tougher schedule and growing expectations for such a young team, this year’s group is entering the season focused on improvement and consistency. As of Dec. 4, their record was 4-4. The girls are gaining momentum and mental toughness as they head deeper into the season. Early matchups highlighted the team’s fast-paced offense, aggressive defense and ability to battle through challenges.
A key contributor to the Lady Warriors team is sophomore La’starr Williams, who leads the team in scoring with 14.6 points per game. She is stepping into her leadership role effortlessly. She ensures that she encourages her teammates and the younger players and provides the best advice she can at all times.
“I tell them to make sure you stay dedicated, keep pushing and always train your hardest,” Williams said. “If you wait and you keep working on basketball, then you will be okay.”
Sophomore Denaijah Jacobs is another key contributor to the Lady Warriors team and leads the team in steals. She prays and does a pre-game warm-up to prepare for each game. Jacobs always tries to play her hardest while on the court and do all that she can to help the team win.
“I plan on winning future games by getting mentally and physically prepared,” Jacobs said. “Because I know that if I play to the best of my abilities, I can help my team win.”
Varsity head coach Stacy Mitchell wants to focus on growing and getting better, while still attempting to win games. The coaching staff emphasizes playing hard and staying focused to continue to shape the season. Mitchell continues to encourage the girls through thick and thin, wins or losses. He wants the girls to continue to play with heart, aggression and discipline, no matter what.
Mitchell is excited to see what the team will do this season and is excited to see them thrive. He wants the girls to stay focused and ready to play, because they never know when their number is going to be called to play. He thinks of the team as a family and wins together or loses together, but they must stick together.
“If we are winning, I am standing up and coaching, and if we are losing, I’m still standing up and coaching,” Mitchell said. “We are a team, and I am the coach. I will always stick with the girls and other coaches.”
The Lady Warriors encourage people to come out and support them while they ball out on the court. Their next home games are against Crispus Attucks on Dec. 17 at 7:30 and Mt. Vernon High School on Jan. 15 at 7:30.
Record (as of Dec. 4): 4-4
Points Per Game Leader: La’starr Williams
Field Goal Per Game Leader: Meelena Fowlkes
Steals Per Game Leader: Denaijah Jacobs
Assist Per Game Leader: Denell Jacobs