Alyssa Abel, a senior forward from Buckhannon-Upshur, has been leveraging her experience as a multi-sport star over the past three years. With the arrival of first-year head coach Alicia Lentz in 2024-25, Abel feels fully prepared to take on the role of a leader and lead the Buccaneer girls basketball program back to glory on the hardwood.

Under New Leadership: A Fresh Dynamic

Coach Lentz has brought a whole new energy to the team. When the players walk into the practice gym, it's all about business. They are constantly learning, never stopping, and pushing themselves to their limits. They even take the time to sit down and watch film together, which has greatly enhanced their game preparation. This new approach has made the team feel more physically and mentally prepared than ever before. The rigorous running sessions also play a crucial role in their development.

Abel emphasizes the importance of this new dynamic, saying, "It's a different atmosphere under coach Lentz. We have a clear goal in mind, and we work hard every day to achieve it. The attention to detail and the focus on improvement have really transformed our team."

The players have embraced this change and are reaping the benefits. They know that with hard work and dedication, they can achieve great things on the basketball court.

Preparing for Games: A Comprehensive Approach

Watching film has become an integral part of the team's game preparation. They analyze every aspect of their opponents' game, looking for weaknesses and patterns. This allows them to develop strategies and game plans that give them an edge on the court.

Abel explains, "Watching film helps us understand our opponents better. We can see their tendencies and adjust our game accordingly. It's like having a secret weapon when we step onto the court."

In addition to film study, the team also focuses on physical conditioning. The running sessions are not just about building endurance; they also help improve their speed and agility. This allows them to move more quickly on the court and execute their plays with precision.

Building Team Chemistry: The Key to Success

Team chemistry is another crucial aspect of the Buccaneer girls basketball program. The players work together both on and off the court, building strong relationships that translate into better on-court performance.

Abel says, "We are more than just a team; we are a family. We support each other through thick and thin, and that makes us a stronger unit. When we play together, we know we can achieve anything."

The players also engage in team-building activities outside of practice to strengthen their bond. These activities help them develop a sense of unity and trust, which is essential for success in basketball.