Alief Hastings Lady Bears: A Grit-Fueled Season and a Promising Future
The 2024-2025 basketball season was a defining one for the Alief Hastings Lady Bears, and under the steady leadership of Head Coach Corey Brotherton, the team not only navigated one of the toughest districts in Texas but also forged a new standard for toughness, unity, and ambition. With 21 wins, a third-place finish in the district, and a home playoff game earned, the Lady Bears have plenty to be proud of—and even more to look forward to.
As the dust settles from a competitive winter, Coach Brotherton reflected on the season that was and the growing foundation of a team that’s clearly headed in the right direction.
Powerhouse Performers: Weathersby and Emeka
The Lady Bears' engine was driven by Amya Weathersby and Favour Emeka, two senior standouts whose on-court production and leadership propelled the team through its highs and lows.
Weathersby, who averaged a dominant 23 points and 12 rebounds per game, was not only the team’s top scorer and rebounder—she was the emotional and strategic leader of the group. Her consistent presence and commanding play set the tone every night.
“Her leadership was undeniable,” said Brotherton. “Once other players began to believe in themselves, the team really came together. She was the spark.”
Emeka, adding 17 points and 6 rebounds per game, complemented Weathersby with her scoring prowess and intensity. The two were a powerful one-two punch that challenged every opponent and made Hastings a must-watch team in the district.
District Battles and a Season to Remember
Finishing 3rd overall in a fiercely competitive district, the Lady Bears fought tooth and nail every night. There were no easy games, and that’s exactly how Coach Brotherton wanted it.
“Every night was a battle,” he said. “But we competed every night, and I’m proud of the resilience this group showed.”
The team's 21-win season capped with a home playoff game—a significant achievement that speaks volumes about the growth of the program and the drive of the athletes.
While the playoff run didn’t end in a deep push this year, the experience of playing under pressure, at home, with everything on the line, will fuel the returning players’ hunger going forward.
The Emergence of Fresh Talent: Kam Dixon
A major bright spot in the season was the emergence of Kam Dixon, a freshman who stepped into a starting role and eventually developed into an all-district player.
“Kam really stepped her game up once district play began,” said Brotherton. “Her growth was tremendous, and she’s only just getting started.”
Dixon’s development not only gave the Lady Bears added depth this season, but it also provided a strong glimpse into the future of the program. Her poise, skill, and competitive fire will undoubtedly make her one of the leaders of the next era.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Injuries, tough losses, and high-pressure situations tested the Lady Bears, but through it all, they never fractured. In fact, the adversity only seemed to strengthen their bond.
“Through all the ups and downs, the team managed to stick together when it mattered most,” said Brotherton. “That’s why we made the playoffs. Our chemistry and togetherness carried us.”
This resilience wasn’t accidental—it was cultivated. The team’s ability to lean on one another in critical moments came from months of shared experience and a clear commitment to a common goal.
Senior Class Legacy: Leading the Way
The 2025 senior class leaves behind a lasting legacy of leadership, work ethic, and excellence. Alongside Weathersby and Emeka, seniors Kimora Rogers, Wilmyr Antoine, and Aliyah Samuel provided stability and mentorship for the underclassmen.
“These young ladies were leaders on and off the court,” Brotherton said. “They showed the younger players how to carry themselves, how to work, and what it means to be a Lady Bear.”
From helping prepare the team in practices to maintaining high standards in games and beyond, this senior group set the tone and helped establish a culture that will last well after their graduation.
A Bright Future: Reloading with Talent and Hunger
As the Lady Bears look to the future, the pieces are already in place for a continued rise. With a strong group of underclassmen returning and the momentum of winning seasons at both the JV and Freshman levels, the program is building a pipeline of talent hungry for varsity success.
“With that tough playoff loss, our returners are coming back hungry,” said Brotherton. “The younger players got a taste of what it takes, and they want more.”
And with leaders like Kam Dixon stepping up, the transition into a new generation of Lady Bears stars appears seamless.
The Offseason Mission: Defense and Sharpshooting
Coach Brotherton has already set the tone for the offseason. The focus? Defensive intensity and improved shooting.
“We’ll work on defense and shooting,” he said. “If we can tighten up those areas, we’ll be a tough team to compete against in the near future.”
The players are on board, and the work has already begun. With their eyes on climbing even higher in the standings—and making a deeper playoff push—this offseason will be a crucial period of preparation.
Where to Follow the Lady Bears
Fans, families, and supporters can stay updated with the latest on the Lady Bears through:
MaxPreps (Search: Alief Hastings Girls Basketball)
Instagram: @aliefhastingsgbb
X (formerly Twitter): @ladybearsbb
Final Thoughts: A Program on the Rise
This year’s Lady Bears showed what’s possible with leadership, grit, and a relentless desire to improve. From standout performances by seniors to the rise of new stars, the 2024-2025 season was more than just successful—it was transformational.
With a solid core of returners, a taste of playoff basketball, and a fierce work ethic, the future for Alief Hastings Girls Basketball is undeniably bright. And if this season was any indication, the Lady Bears won’t just be back—they’ll be better.
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