LEWISBURG — Tri-County North’s girls’ basketball program is low on numbers this season, but it hasn’t discouraged fourth-year head coach Jessica Cherry.
Despite the low numbers, the Panthers are returning four starters from a 7-16 (4-8 Cross County Conference) team a year ago.
“We are low on numbers this season with only playing a varsity schedule, however never underestimate the numbers,” Cherry said. “We have huge talent on this team from all angles of scoring, rebounding and ball handling.”
Cherry believes her team is capable of finishing in the upper half of the CCC.
“I have a goal this year to be the top half of our league along with a big goal of 500-plus, which this program hasn’t seen in many years. We have huge expectations for these ladies who have worked hard in the summer with summer ball, camps and AAU teams. We look forward to an amazing season.”
Cherry said Cassi Stinson and Megan Poling will be huge role players this coming season as they enter their senior year.
Poling led the team in steals along with averaging 9.7 points per game.
Stinson will be returning as a four-year starter and three years as a co-captain.
“She will bring her leadership skills to the team along with scoring and ball handling,” Cherry said.
Sophomore Aubrey Stupp will be a key component for the Panthers.
As as a freshman, Stupp led the team in scoring at 19.8 points per game, along with 10 rebounds per game. She is a huge role player as well for the panthers.
Another starter returning for the Panthers is junior Shyanna Baker. Baker contributed a “huge rebound game,” according to Cherry.
Cherry said to expect junior Abby Rupp and freshman Sidney Jackson to contribute as well.
“We have a small team this year but I expect to huge things from Abby and Sidney,” Cherry said.
Cherry said three freshmen will be in the mix for playing time as well. In addition to Jackson, Cherry said Jaelyn Hawkins and Maddie Flory will see time.
Rounding out the roster are junior Faith Estep, sophomore Alaina Baldasare and Emily Norris.
North is scheduled to open the season on Friday, Nov. 24 at Twin Valley South. North will play Northridge at 6 p.m., as part of the CCC/SWBL Showdown. On Saturday, North will play Carlisle at 6 p.m.
The Panthers will play its first home game on Tuesday, Nov. 28, when they host Brookville.
