January 22, 2021
After an unprecedented 11-month hiatus, the East Central Lady Warriors are finally ready to take to the court for the start of the 2021 season. The team wrapped up last year with a 10-13 overall record, but with six sophomores on the roster for 2021, the team is ready to compete in the always-competitive MACCC.
"This returning class came to me at the end of the season and expressed their interest in what it would take to be successful going into their sophomore year," said ECCC head coach LaTayrl Williams. "They reassured me they were buying into what we are building here."
Ja'Lancia Kohlheim is the leading scorer that is returning after seeing action in 21 games as a freshman and averaging five points per game in conference play. She is joined by Tahja Coleman, Asia Madison, DaMya Riley-George, Mirial Cannon, and Wynter Taylor.
"They got a lot of minutes as freshmen and I anticipate all of them having a big year for us," said Williams. "Not only on the court but off the court with their leadership."
Joining the returning sophomores is a group of seven very athletic freshmen that look to make an immediate impact on the team.
"I love our freshmen class, they have great speed and versatility and the ability to shoot from the perimeter," said Williams. "These seven girls are going to get a lot of playing time, and they have gained some confidence going into the season with their experience from the scrimmages."
The Lady Warriors look to increase perimeter shooting and spread the floor, but maintain the ability to push it in transition and try to get the ball inside by attacking through the post and driving to the basket.
COVID-19 has presented numerous challenges, but it has also provided an ability for the ECCC coaching staff to develop a closer relationship with players leading into the season.
"The fall semester went really well considering we didn't have any official games but we got the opportunity to play four scrimmages where we went 3-1 and got a lot of practice time in," said Williams. "It gave us a good platform to see where we stand on the season...we've just been trying to keep our student-athletes focused on the purpose of this year which is being successful in school and basketball."
Overall, the Lady Warriors are ready to hit the hardwood with loads of energy and an itching desire to prove themselves after months of no competition.
"We took a step back last year, after making a playoff push and receiving votes in the national poll two years ago," said Williams. "I'm looking for growth this season and looking forward to bringing this program back to the national stage."
ECCC tips off the 2021 season on Monday, January 25 as the Lady Warriors travel to Poplarville to face the Pearl River Lady Wildcats. Game time is set for 6:00 p.m. and fans can watch the action live at prccmedia.com.
