Cheney returns experience

CHENEY - The reality of the true uncertainty of the game hit Cheney girls' basketball coach Meredith Richards quite early in her first year on the job last year at this time.

"Losing our senior point guard, Paige Evans, in our second game of the season to a broken wrist was a big hit to our program," Richards wrote in an email.

Indeed, it was as Richards had to endure a ninth-place finish in the 10-team Greater Spokane 3A/4A division finishing 5-15 overall, 1-8 in league play.

"We had a few close games that were losses that could have been wins (Southridge and Wenatchee) and my hope is to convert those close games into victories this season, giving our girls a mental boost," Richards said.

The loss of Evans, however, might have paid unseen dividends for the Blackhawks as they approach 2024-25?

"We had players step up and fill that role in Mia Ashcroft, Sarah Hanson and Natalie Richards and we have all three returning this year," the coach said.

That experience, while difficult, helped shape them into the players they will be this season, and Richards is excited to watch them.

Evans and Richards' daughter, Macey, both have graduated, but Cheney returns four starters, six seniors and nine letter winners.

"I can't single out one player that will contribute this season as we will have contributions from players in every position, that is exciting for a coach," Richards said.

Breaking down those returning players, Richards' other daughter Natalie and Sarah Hanson will fill the role of point guard this season.

Richards and Hanson were battle tested last year in the GSL as first year point guards - and sophomores.

"They came out stronger, worked hard this summer with ball handling and finding their confidence and will have more successes this season," Richards suggests.

Allison Vold, Kiley Zeisler, along with Ella McCall, will fill the hole that Macey Richards left in the post position. "All have been working hard in the gym during the off season and their growth in paint play is showing a little more every day."

There's additional depth in the paint with Kiah Klauss who "Adds a huge boost to our team both on and off the court," Richards said.

Richards singled out a group of guards who have impressed.

"We have some two and three guards that have great court awareness this year and aren't afraid to attack the basket or shoot the long ball in Ashcroft, Kayelee Kohlman, Mairyn O'Regan, Isabelle Weed and Macy Brown," she said.

The Blackhawks have been busy during the off-season with tournaments, team camps, summer strength and skills workouts as well as open gyms this fall.

Richards has pinpointed areas she knows need to improve so that their record does, too. It's simple, she said and that's "Giving 100% every single time they step onto the court."

In addition, "We will have to focus on our defense and speed to be successful this year," she said.

"We have many quick girls and will have to focus on team play on both sides of the ball - whether it is solid passing to move the ball or shifting on defense, we are going to have to be quick and smart this year to compete," Richards said.

Richards predicts her team will be fun to watch and worthy of fans flocking to the gym.

"Playing with the support of the community behind us makes for a great atmosphere in the gym," Richards said. "We are growing as a team and thrive on the students and fans that attend, and we are excited to put on a show and have a great season."