The women’s basketball team is ranked No. 1 in the Sooner Athletic Conference in preseason rankings.
In spite of the loss of many talented seniors, including 2012-13 All-American Lauren Gober and Katie Hall, the team doesn’t plan to miss a beat as they look to live up to their top ranking – they received 10 of 10 possible first-place votes from SAC coaches.
“We brought in a lot of talent this year from all different levels,” said Senior Guard Kayla Mackenzie. “So far, everyone is buying into the program, and things are coming together quickly.”
Mackenzie is one of three returning seniors.
Center Cara Pugh and Forward Autumn Huffman also will be looking to lead the team on the court.
The team has a momentous history having won the SAC title a total of nine times in just 13 years, as well as a total of six National Championships, most recently in 2012.
The season opens Nov. 3 in College Station, Texas, when the Stars compete against Texas A&M.
The team has been working hard to prepare for D-1 competition.
“We’ve focused a lot of our time trying to perfect the little things and making sure our defensive principles are understood,” Mackenzie said.
“Our defense sparks our offence, so that has definitely been the priority of the preseason.”
Coach Latricia Trammell works just as hard as her players.
“She dedicates so much time into making video clips, watching recordings, and scouting to make sure we are as prepared as possible for our games,” Mackenzie said.
After their opening game against Texas A&M, the Stars will travel Nov. 5 to Baylor University in Waco, Texas.
Last year, the Stars lost 91-42 to a Baylor squad led by Brittney Griner, who went on to be first pick in the WNBA Draft.
The team will begin SAC conference play at Southwestern Assemblies of God on Dec. 5, followed by their first home game of the season versus Northwood on Dec. 7 in Abe Lemons Arena in Henry J. Freede Wellness and Activity Center.
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