BOYS

Coach: Derek Barlow

20-21 Record: 13-10

Entering his second season with the Pocola basketball program, head coach Derek Barlow is excited to see his players operate in his system after spending much of the first year learning the nuances behind the offense. “The team did an outstanding job of committing to a new system of standards and expectations,” said coach Barlow. “In the four years prior to my arrival, the Pocola boys basketball team posted a record of nine wins and 82 losses. Last year, we fought very hard to go 13-10.” Tre Elam (6-0, Sr.) is a skilled ball handler, passer, and scorer. Elam emerged as a team leader during the summer and has the ability and desire to play college basketball. Brenden O’Connell (6-1, Sr.) is a fierce competitor and has the strength and skill set to take over a basketball game. Ian Hardwick (6-0, Sr.) is a complete basketball player that will excel as a scorer, facilitator for the team. Eli Garrett (6-3, Sr.) may be the most improved player coming into the season. Garrett has gained 20-pounds and is very explosive, long and athletic. Garrett Scott (6-2, So.) is a reliable scorer and defender who played significant minutes as a freshman. Trenton Underwood (6-4, Sr.) has made major gains in the offseason as well. Underwood will play forward/center for the Indians giving them a big body inside and someone who can crash the boards. Other players to watch include Trintan Pitsco (5-10, Jr.) at shooting guard and Zac Jones (5-11, Jr.) at shooting guard and small forward. 

GIRLS

Coach: Mark McKenzie

20-21 Record: 17-7

The Lady Indians reached the Class 2A state tournament last season. This year they have their eyes on a return trip but this year, they plan to play a few more games.  Head coach Mark McKenzie thinks his team is good enough to make it back as long as they can stay healthy. “We are bringing back a lot of experience, but our depth could be an issue for us,” he said. “I hope to see everyone contribute to our team and I believe by season’s end, we can be good enough to return to the state tournament.” Mika Scott (5-9, Sr.) is a great athlete that has already committed to Northeastern State University. She is a leader on and off the court and will be a solid piece of this year’s team, just like last season. Also back is Kylee Smith (5-8, Jr.), who does the unnoticeable things for the team. She is an excellent rebounder and defensive player. Allyssa Parker (5-10, Fr.) is a great athlete that does not have a lot of gym time. She is a hard worker and should have a solid season. Bailey Lairamore (5-8, Jr.), Aryanna Ellison (5-4, Jr.), Presleigh Riggs (5-4, Jr.) are three players that will look to have a bigger role on the court this season and help the team be successful. Other Lady Indians to keep an eye on this season are Maci Maxwell (5-7, So.), Riley Jerrell (5-5, Fr.), Lety Parga (5-6, Fr.), and Kylee Merritt (5-5, Fr.)