Despite the loss of players due to injuries, the Ladycats came together to defeat Santo for a bi-district championship.

“We practiced our plays, conditioned, constantly shot free throws and ran for our misses,” senior Taylor Sims said. “We dialed in our focus.”

After finishing district in second place with a record of 7-3, the Ladycats’ season ended with a loss to Frost in the area round.

“We did well in district,” head coach Amy Huseman said. “We have faced some pretty tough competition, and I am happy with the way the girls have shown up every game.”

Injuries were the biggest obstacle for the Ladycats, Coach Huseman said.

“Losing two guards (sophomores Kennedy Huseman and Sierra Mooney) forced us to change our game plan,” Coach Huseman said. “Instead of starting three guards, we had to start three posts. The girls adjusted well to the new lineup, and I am proud of the way we played.”

Despite their inexperience, the posts adjusted to their new role, sophomore Lauren Castles said.

“Our plays seem to be different every time,” Castles said, “but we adjust to it and make it work.”

The 6-foot-1 post said she had to learn to be a wing in some cases.

“I had to actually dribble and pass the ball, which I usually never do,” Castles said.

Coach Huseman said the girls’ chemistry and their inside game were two of their greatest strengths.

“The girls have worked hard on their inside game to open it up for our guards,” she said. “We had some girls step up and lead the team, and that helped out tremendously.”