For 5 straight seasons, Union County’s girls team has made the postseason. In that span, they’ve had 4 separate coaches. Thomas Nelson enters his second year, which provides much-needed consistency, and his 2023-24 team was very successful with a Sweet 16 run and #10 state ranking.
With several key players back, there’s no reason to think the Lady Panthers can’t build off that.
PRESEASON INFO
2023-24 Record: 17-12; Sweet 16; #10 State Rank
Head Coach: Thomas Nelson (2nd Season)
Returning Starters: 3
Key Departures: Kamryn Mull, Lara Turner, Morgan Warren, Paula Robertson (transfer to Gilmer)
Key Players: Ariel McCarter (All-State, 1K pt scorer), Katelyn Brown, Hope Yalor, Regan Trlica, Hensley Adams, Sloane Dyer, Aubrie Akins
Offense: “We want to play at a fast pace,” adds Nelson. “We have a nice mix of young players and returning players so we are excited about they are coming together.”
Strengths: “In year number two, we will continue to improve our program,” says Nelson. “Our top 3 players are coming back from last season. We will be leaning on our 6 returning seniors for leadership as we enter a new region this year.”
Biggest Challenges: “Moving into a new region with 8 other teams this year is definitely a challenge,” adds Nelson. “Hopefully, we can compete with the top teams in this region.”
“Expectations are high with 6 seniors,” exclaims Nelson. “Last season, we finished in the Sweet 16. Our goal this year is to take another step in the right direction.”
