Scouting Round Lake

ROUND LAKE

Coach: Molly Hennig (first season)

Last season: 7-22, 2-12 in NLCC, lost to Highland Park in Class 4A Highland Park regional play-in

Key losses: F Kiara Billups, G Griselda Martinez, F Hannah Brooks

Returning players: Sr. G Diane Flade (5-8), Sr. G Emily Etherington (5-5), Sr. F Samantha Nicoline (5-6), Sr. G Giselle Raygoza (5-5), Sr. F Courtney Greenwood (5-6)

Newcomers: Sr. G Isaly Irizarry (5-5), Jr. F Maggie Rodriguez (5-7), So. F Karla Marin (5-6), So. G Karina Irigollen (5-6), Fr. C Amari Cole (6-0), Fr. G Taylor Major (5-8)

Outlook: Former assistant Molly Hennig takes over from veteran Panthers coach Doug Barnshaw and inherits a group that features a little bit of everything - experience, youth, height, athleticism and, yes, talent. Senior guards Diane Flade, Emily Etherington and Samantha Nicoline all have been on varsity for the past three seasons "and have worked very hard in the offseason to improve various aspects of their game," Hennig said. Nicoline missed the second half of last season with an ACL injury. The newcomers include 6-0 freshman center Amari Cole, freshman guard Taylor Major and sophomores Karla Marin and Karina Irigollen. "Our team is balanced in terms of experience and youth," Hennig said. "We are looking at our six seniors to bring us experience and leadership with a solid group of underclassmen. Together, we hope they will combine to provide our team with athleticism and the skill level which we believe will be our strength this year. Our quickness and defense will also help to set the tone for us throughout the season."