Lady Cat Basketball Starts With New Coach, Scrimmages, Season Begins Monday Night

Edmonson Voice Sports
There's been a new level of excitement for Lady Cat Basketball ever since Coach Kevin Jackson announced his return to Edmonson County when he was hired as head coach in July of this year. 

Jackson coached a successful program here from 1992-2003, where he led the team to three district championships. Jackson replaces Ted Hill who stepped down after last season with a 2014-15 record of 12-16.

Jackson has said practices so far have revolved around defense and rebounding, and the team recently held a scrimmage against a very solid South Warren team. 

"We like to scrimmage good teams because they'll point out your weaknesses and show you what you need to work on," he said. 

Jackson said that good teams have good senior leadership and he's counting on that from his four seniors, Tori Browning, Jhonna Basil, Rachel Duncan, and Madelyne Taylor. 

"These young ladies have set the tone with their work ethic and attitude for a great season," he said.

Offensively, the Lady Cats will rely heavily on two sophomores, Caitlyn Simon, who averaged over 14 points per game as a freshmen last year, and Peyton Martin who added 8 points per game.

"For us to be successful, everyone must buy in to playing a role," Jackson said. "Each player will be able to contribute in someway to our success."

Jackson also credited a very solid coaching staff that has joined him. Christy Clark and Tyra Ballance are returning to the sidelines from last year, along with long-time assistant Barry Booth.
​ 
The Lady Cats traveled to Adair County Tuesday night for their final scrimmage before their season opener against Logan County on Monday night. The contest was reportedly very physical and Lady Cat fans were upset with some officiating. Tensions and emotions ran high, and the game was called just before the third quarter ended.

Sophomore Caitlyn Simon spoke about the game being physical, but simply put, "Coach Jack had our backs and took up for us and we left," she said.

"We were disappointed that the game was cut short because we were really making strides in this scrimmage," said senior Tori Browning. "We did a lot of really good things. We're really excited to get our season started Monday night against Logan County."

"The scrimmage got really rough," Jackson said. "Had one girl get hurt and didn't want anyone else to get hurt. We really got better and decided that was enough."

Jackson said the issue of the game being called in the third was made out to be bigger than it actually was. "No big deal," he said. "Looking at the big picture of the regular season is our main goal. I'm proud of our girls' effort and intensity they played with, and we're looking forward to Monday's opening game."

We'll have more about opening night against Logan County in the next few days. You'll also be able to listen to the game live on EdmonsonVoice.com.