BOYS
Coach: Greg Nichols
20-21 Record: 24-5
Coming off a historic run last March resulting in the Lions reaching the Class 2A state championship game, Howe begins their rebuilding efforts to maintain their winning expectations that have resulted in 67 wins the past three years. “We look to replace a trio of seniors who were big keys in our success,” said head coach Greg Nichols whose 2020 squad also reached the state tournament before the Covid pandemic halted play just before game one. “Our ability to develop our younger plays will be key to making another run.”
Among the reasons that Nichols can smile is the return of two starters who know what’s required to reach the Big House. Ky Lynn (6-1, Sr.) has been a shutdown defender while averaging 9.3 points plus 5.5 rebounds at guard while Jensin Coggins (6-3, Sr.) brings toughness to the front line where he totaled 6.7 points while grabbing 8.5 boards per outing. Kobe Wooten (6-0, Jr.), who was injured last season, returns to bolster the offensive attack. The Lions expect major contributions from Brayden Dalton (6-5, Jr.), Jorge Martinez (5-8, Sr.) Jaxon Remy (5-10, Jr.) along with Garrett Smith (5-10, Fr.), Braden Blake (6-4, So.) and Chace Callahan (6-1, Sr.). “Defensive intensity, rebounding and finding some new offensive firepower will be vital in our quest to make it back to the Big House,” said Nichols.
GIRLS
Coach: Chris Brown
20-21 Record: 25-2
Can the Lady Lions go back-to-back-to back as Class 2A state champions? Only the cancellation of the 2020 state tournament has prevented Howe from raising the gold ball on championship Saturday at the Big House including last year winning the school’s sixth girls basketball state championship. With the proven talents and leadership of three starters who have started the last two seasons, coach Chris Brown’s squad has the foundation for continued success. The guard combination of Shiloh Fletcher (5-5, Sr.) whose quickness and shooting touch produced 11.2 points per game and 3.7 assists reunites with Raelyn Delt (5-10, Sr.) who grabbed 5.1 rebounds on top of averaging 8.0 points per contest while forward Kalan Nye (5-9, Sr.) who delivered 8.0 points and 4.7 rebounds will combine with Maddie Ramsey (5-10, Sr.) who contributed 7.4 points and 3.1 rebounds. Adding to the senior experience factor that played vital roles last year will be Kayley Turner (5-11, Sr.) and Jayce Blake (5-9, Sr.) while Gracie Lute (5-9, Jr.) and Abbie Huie (5-7, Jr.), who also logged valuable game time results give Brown’s lineup added depth. “Every team is different so we want this team to use this season to prime themselves for the playoffs,” replied Brown who begins his 22nd season and owns 536 career wins. “Our goal is to be playing our best in February and March.”
