Travel basketball has given Rattan’s young players experience they can bring into the high school season. Coach Michael Clay will see how that preparation carries over to the varsity game as his team looks to improve on last season’s 15-15 record.
There is plenty to learn for a roster with just one senior, but Clay expects the group to improve throughout the season. Getting comfortable in varsity roles will take time. Rattan will need its younger players to become dependable contributors while they gain that experience.
Landrie Ross (Sr.) will carry an important share of the responsibility around the basket. Clay expects her to help establish Rattan’s interior play on offense and defense, giving the team an experienced player inside as the younger contributors settle into their roles.
Ross’ leadership will matter, too. As the lone senior, she will be someone younger teammates can look to while they learn the varsity game. Her ability to help the group through that adjustment will be important to Rattan’s progress.
Kate Burgett (Fr.) is a newcomer Clay expects to contribute early. He likes her scoring potential and understanding of basketball, and he believes she could become Rattan’s leading scorer in her first high school season.
That would be a considerable responsibility for a freshman. Burgett will have her own adjustments to make, but Clay’s confidence in her gives Rattan reason to be encouraged about what she can bring to the offense.
Assistant coach Dawn Tabor will help Clay guide the young roster. With Ross working inside and Burgett offering scoring potential, the staff has two players expected to take on meaningful roles as the rest of the lineup develops.
Rattan will have to turn its travel experience into consistent varsity play. Clay expects the learning to continue throughout the schedule, with the goal of having the team at its best late in the season.
