The Lady Mavericks of Manchester Academy finished their basketball season with a record of 26-8, which according to Coach Emily Poe, is the most successful record to date.
Leading the way on the court this season for the Lady Mavericks was Lanie Potter, who averaged 18.42 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 blocks per game.
"She wreaked havoc on other teams in the paint," Poe said.
Lizzy Carpenter provided a spark on offense and defense, averaging 7.5 points per game in the regular season, 14 points per game in post-season tournaments, and played hard defense against the best players on some of the toughest teams the Lady Mavericks faced this season.
Poe added that Ivy Sowell was a "Floor General" this season, contributing 6.32 points on offense per game.
"Ivy played a very important role because everything we did ran through her as our point guard," she said. "And Anna Kate Griffin provided the defense. She was like a gnat on the team's best players. She was relentless."
Anna Kate Griffin also contributed to the offense of the team this season, scoring much needed points in a few crucial games.
Rounding out the starting five for the Lady Mavericks was Hanna Clark Havens.
"Hanna was one of those players who was always in the right place at the right time," Poe said. "She seemed to come up with some unexpected steals and plays."
Karley Martin was another big factor for the Lady Mavericks this season with her height and strength, providing much needed help to the team's game inside the paint and under the goal.
"When Lanie and Karley were in the game at the same time, we were very hard to beat," Poe said.
A few of the Junior High Lady Mavericks contributed to the team's success this year. Sydney Porter contributed to many offensive drives to the goal when needed, while Anna Grace Ellison provided guard relief and quickness.
"All of the players contributed daily in the success of the team, whether in practice or in games this season," Poe said.
A few of the Lady Mavericks were presented with athletic honors this season due to their performances on the court.
Named to the District All-Tournament and South State All Tournament teams were Lanie Potter, Anna Kate Griffin, and Lizzy Carpenter.
Lizzy Carpenter was honored once again by being named to the MAIS Class AA State All-Tournament team at the closing ceremonies last week.
Poe said that the Lady Mavericks were "slapped in the face with adversity" in the post season, starting with the South State Championship game.
One of the most troubling obstacles for the Lady Mavericks was when Lanie Potter suffered an ankle injury, rendering her unable to play in three of the post season game, two of which took place at the State tournament.
"I was so proud of the rest of the team because they showed heart, character, and determination in those games," Poe said. "They never quit and left everything they had on the court. It is so refreshing as a coach when you know that they just get it and are playing for more than just the win. That's when you have done your job."
Poe said that she will dearly miss her two seniors that will graduate this year, Hanna Havens and Dalyn Burrough, who have been playing with the Lady Mavericks for the last five years.
"Our goal this year was a state championship, and we fell short of that goal," she said. "With that being said, the girls had an awesome season. Their future is bright, and I am already excited for the 2020-2021 year."
