By Caleb Peckham

The women’s basketball season has gotten off to a strong start, with dominant wins over multiple Division IV opponents. Although the team has suffered some injuries, many players have stepped up as the Lady Knights seek to defend their state title.

Junior Camille Zimmerman is leading the team with almost 20 points a game. Teammate Lisa Dischinger describes her as playing “a giant role in holding the trust of the team” and says that she “gets the team riled up and ready to play.” Head coach Nancy Calahan says that Zimmerman is key to the team’s championship hopes. “She is difficult to guard because of her size and her ability to shoot 3’s and also post up.”

In addition, the senior leadership of this year’s team has buoyed Tempe Prep’s hopes. Dischinger leads the team in rebounds and is an anchor on defense. Marissa Rich is the team’s second leading scorer and plays tough on both ends of the court. Other seniors include converted soccer star Maddie Ternyik, along with Mikaelah Robledo and Kaitlin Donnelly.

The team has set many lofty goals for this year, including winning the Valley Christian tournament Dec. 27-29. Coach Calahan says, “We will have to play well, but we really believe we can do it.” She observes that this year’s team‘s strength lies in having more experienced scorers than in years past along with a strong supporting bench.

Of course, the team has goals beyond the winter break. Having learned from a loss to Desert Christian in the playoffs two years ago, the Knights are prepared to work hard and focus for each and every game. Coach Calahan knows that “We need to respect every opponent and play smarter basketball.” Zimmerman agrees: “We cannot take any games lightly because we are the team to beat.”

With many challenges ahead, the Lady Knights could use increased fan support to boost them to a coveted second consecutive state trophy. So come out and cheer the team on to the championship.