With an overall record of 12-13, and currently fourth in Perry’s 6A Premier conference schedule, the Lady Pumas remain dedicated and determined to play to the best of their ability to finish the season.

Senior point guard, Olivia Vernon, who averages 13.0 points per game (ppg) and 3.9 assists, is the Puma’s offensive leader. Vernon is able to score, and distribute the ball to her teammates to create scoring opportunities for them.

Other seniors Jade Verberne and Emily Solomon together contribute 11.0 ppg and .4 assists.

These girls are three of nine seniors on the varsity basketball team and the seniors account for approximately 71% of the Pumas offensive production.

“With Olivia leaving, I am going to have to work a lot harder, and step up to be a good leader for our program next season,” said junior Taylor Jobe.

After this season, the six remaining Lady Pumas, which include four juniors and two sophomores, know they are going be called upon to become the new leaders on, and off the court.

“[The younger girls] just need to work hard next season, they have so much potential” said Olivia Vernon.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Andrew Curtis, the Pumas have begun to create a new identity for themselves.

“He has changed all of us, we have a new mindset and new drive, I guess we all have changed for him,” said Vernon.

The Lady Pumas want to be competitive each time they step on the court, so intense daily practices are expected in order to be prepared for their next game.

“Our biggest struggle has been playing as a team, but we have gotten a lot better and we trust each other more on and off the court, “said Jobe.

The Pumas are like family; each person has a specific role to play that contributes to the success of that family.

The nine seniors have been the leaders and have an expectation that the younger girls take their place.

“The JV team is constantly pushing themselves to gain experience,” said junior Megan Colborn, “we have learned some of the varsity plays to prepare for future years.”

The juniors and sophomores are dedicated to becoming the leaders of this team, and elevating the status of the girls varsity basketball program in their conference. The Lady Pumas have the drive and determination, this family will succeed.