USA

PA Memorial Girls Hoops: A Tale of Two Seasons (+Podcast)

The Port Arthur Memorial Lady Titans are reeling into their 2020 schedule after Tuesday's loss to Nederland 48-31. Their district record now stands at 3-3 after starting out the season 2-16. Even with the loss, Jacqualyn Gibbs, Kaila Jackson, and Iyanna Brannon are leading the way towards the Lady Titans finding their path towards the post season.

With a little over three weeks remaining every team is snaking their way through the second round of district play. Head coach Kevin Henry feels his team is improving.

"Our goal is to go out, compete and win every game," said Henry, last years Coach of the Year for District 21-5A.

"Obviously that hasn't happened but I think with the talent we have we can compete. The district is still wide open, I think we have a good chance to be one of the four teams to make the playoffs."

Last years team finished in a tie for the top district spot with Barbers Hill at 10-1 and challenged Friendswood in the bi-district playoff round before falling 42-32. That was the Lady Titans first playoff appearance since 2016.

"Last years success gave our players a mindset to strive for this year," said Henry.

"A goal for us is to, if not win district, at least advance to the playoffs. We lost seven seniors to graduation so we have players this year taking on different roles. We didn't adjust very well early in the season but we'll be there once we get through district."

Along with Gibbs, Jackson and Brannon, the Lady Titans bring with them juniors Lakorian Fontenett, Jessica McCrea and sophomore point guard Jordan Duncan.

"Im expecting big things out of those ladies," said Henry.

Next Friday, Port Arthur Memorial will take on district leader Barbers Hill (7-0) in a defining game of if the Lady Titans can will themselves towards a top four spot in District 21-5A.

To listen to a podcast interview with PAM head coach Kevin Henry click on the play button below.