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Alex

Alex Longhorns Basketball Preview – Presented by First National Bank & Trust Co.

BOYS

Coach: Isaac Byrne
21-22 Record: 17-12

Head coach Isaac Byrne returns several key players to the court this season after winning 17-games last year. “We will be returning several key players off last year’s team. This team is tough and gritty. Should be very tough defensively and will need a balanced scoring attack from several key players,” said coach Byrne.

Ricky Thornburg (5-10, Sr.) is back, bringing his toughness and ability to be one of the top defenders in the class. Thornburg can also shoot the ball with consistency and provide the team with leadership on the court. Konner Shebester (5-8, Sr.), like Thornburg, is another tough and gritty player. After a solid summer, Shebester will step into a larger role with the team this season. Look for this to be a breakout season for Shebester. Kyler Boatwright (6-2, Jr.) is a combo player who can hurt you with his inside game or step out and drill perimeter shots. Coach Byrne said he has liked the growth Boatwright has shown over the last two seasons and said his defense is much improved.

Another player who could have a breakout type season. Kyler Craddock (6-2, Sr.) and Jace Berry (6-2, Sr.) are two experienced forwards who will also have an impact this season. Other players to watch include Ryder Doty (5-6, So.), Easton Chambers (5-10, So.), Nick Power (5-6, So.), James Power (5-9, So.), and Karter Seward (5-7, Fr.).

GIRLS 

Coach: Mark Prince 

21-22 Record: 8-16 

Despite having somewhat of a young team, head coach Mark Prince is confident they can put together a solid season and continue working toward their goal of becoming a playoff contender. “We have three returning starters with just two upperclassmen,” said coach Prince. “Very young this year, but we will be more athletic and play at a faster pace. We will also try to put more pressure on the ball and create some offense with our defense.”

Riley Byrne (5-5, Sr.) is a three-year starter and one of the leaders for Alex. She can score at all three levels and makes great decisions with the ball in her hands. Kaitlyn Byrum (5-6, Jr.) was the statistical leader in scoring more often than not last season. Byrum rarely leaves the court, but with a deeper bench this season, she may get the needed breaks to keep her fresh throughout the game. Triniti Black (5-9, So.) may have a breakout season this year. Always a threat for a double/double, Black is the key to the half-court offense for Alex. Another underclassman to watch is McKenna Hurley (5-7, Fr.). Hurley can play all five positions and is expected to be a force on defense.

Other players to watch include Kailyn Montgomery (5-8, So.), Cale Beckham (5-7, So.), Keegan Seward (5-3, So.), Madison Byrne (5-6, Fr.), Calyn Chambers (5-6, Fr.), Abigail McKee (5-7, Fr.), Mayce Willis (5-10, Fr.), and Kenzie Beauchamp (5-7, Fr.). 

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