Mount Vernon High School Girls Basketball Season Preview

The Mount Vernon High School basketball team is back and stronger than ever this season. With a focused and determined coaching staff and a talented roster of players, Coach India Thomas and her team are determined to compete for a national district championship. When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Thomas highlighted Natalie Turner as a standout player. Turner, a 3-time 1st-team all-conference player, is a dual threat on the court, able to score from both the perimeter and inside the paint. Her skill and experience will be crucial to the team's success this year. But it's not just Turner who will make an impact this season. Coach Thomas also praised the team's strong chemistry and camaraderie. By looking for players who not only excel on the court but also demonstrate strong character and set positive examples off the court, the team can create a supportive and unified culture. This camaraderie will undoubtedly play a vital role in the team's success this year. To maintain this team chemistry and drive, Coach Thomas plans on holding team events outside of basketball. This allows the players to connect and bond off the court, strengthening their relationships and translating into stronger performances on the court. When players feel connected and supported by their teammates, they are more motivated to push themselves to their full potential. Coach Thomas emphasizes the importance of mental preparation for her team. She believes that basketball will only reward you for what you work for. Thus, the team's mental approach is the foundation of everything they do. From practicing how they play to building confidence and belief in themselves and their team, the mental aspect of the game is a crucial aspect of their training and preparation. As for changes or improvements made to the team's training and conditioning program, Coach Thomas focuses on continually adapting and evolving based on the team's personnel. While their approach and expectations remain consistent, they make adjustments to their training to best suit their players' strengths and weaknesses. This flexibility and willingness to adapt contribute to the team's overall success. One of the biggest challenges in preparing for this season was not knowing what the pandemic would bring and the potential impact it could have on the team's schedule and preparation. However, Coach Thomas and her coaching staff have emphasized the importance of taking things one game and one day at a time. By focusing on what they can control and working hard every day in practice, the team is ready to face whatever challenges may come their way this season.