BOYS
Coach: Jason Ward 20-21 Record: 10-12

With just one returning starter to go with a group of young and hungry players, McCurtain boys’ basketball coach Jason Ward says this year’s team has a chip on their shoulders and are ready to compete. “The only way to get these guys out of the gym is turn the lights off and lock the doors,” says Ward. “The excitement they are showing and hard work they are willing to put in is very refreshing. Win, lose, or draw, this team will give their all.”

Brandon Labor (6-0, Sr.) is the lone senior on this squad and will be counted on to carry the load on both ends of the floor. “Brandon is a strong player that cleans up everyone’s mess,” says Ward. “He is very strong, works very hard, and is a great leader for the others.” Clayne Honeycutt (6-0, Jr.) will be another key player for the Bulldogs this year. “Clayne finds a way to get into the play,” Ward says. “He is a strong defender and good finisher. He makes the team better every possession.” Luke Sandlin (5-11, So.) is an underclassman that Ward will lean heavily on this season. “Luke has great instincts and is ready to lead,” says Ward. “He plays hard and has a good touch. He’s a tough competitor on both ends.” Kaden Dill (5-10, Sr.), Layne Real (6-0, Sr.), Brayden Ward (5-10, Jr.), Ben Bond (6-0, So.), Zane Cooper (5-11, So.), and Jerijah Bunda (5-10,So.) will also be counted on this season for McCurtain.

GIRLS
Coach: Bryan Schlekeway
20-21 Record: 21-6

Following a trip to the area tournament the McCurtain Lady Bulldogs are ready to make an even deeper run. The Lady Bulldogs will be led by four-year starters Idaysia Mills (5- 7, Sr.) and Aaliyah Baker (5-6, Sr.). Those two solidify the backcourt and make up one of the better guard combos in Class B. Brooklyn Vails (5-6, Sr.) and Katelynn Bond (5-11, Sr.) are two other upperclassmen that Schlekeway will be leaning on this year. Those four girls alone give McCurtain experience that most teams would envy.
One underclassman Schlekeway is excited to watch is Jerica Baker. She is a two-sport star that recently earned All-Conference honors in softball.