Speed, defense keys for Cobden girls

The Cobden High School girls’ basketball team will not be lacking in one area this season.

“We have some speed on the team,” said first-year Cobden coach Keri Jones, a former Sikeston, Mo., High School athlete. “And, we should have a good defense.”

Jones will be attempting to build a successful team around the return of a trio of seniors: 5-7 guard Bekah Russell, 5-7 forward Krysti Davis and 5-5 guard Katie Mowell.

Juniors on the squad are 5-11 forward Devyn Inman and 5-8 forward Marisa Howe.

Sophomores who  should contribute on varsity are 5-5 guard Laurelin Pitts, 5-6 guard Ashley Millis, 5-6 guard Haley Tomazzoli, 5-5 guard Brenda Carmona, 5-9 forward Audrey Sirles, and 5-6 guard Brooklyn Yancy.

Two freshmen on the roster are 5-10 center Tempest Vandergraph and 5-7 guard Sandra Hartline.

Assistant coaches are Nick Carvell and Jenny Russell.

“We’re looking for a good season and we’re looking for a winning season,” said Jones, who is not from the area and plans to scout upcoming opponents to find out the talent the Appleknockers will face.

Cobden opens its season at Zeigler-Royalton Thursday, Nov. 17.