With a new basketball season staring on Nov. 22, Shawn Johnson, Southwest girls basketball coach, said his squads is focused on steady growth and team-minded play.

“I want to see players work hard, trust one another, and play unselfishly and compete with energy and discipline and show steady improvement from the first practice to the final game,” Johnson said.

The Lady Trojans return multiple contributors, including a standout presence in the post, from a 15-11 campaign last season.

“Jaretsi Quintanilla, senior center, was First Team All-District and All-Conference,” Johnson said. “She averaged 24.7 points per game and 9.8 rebounds per game. She’s our go to person on the inside. She has developed her game to where she can step outside and hit some 3s. She had one game where she hit 4 and finished with 40 points. Addy Payne, junior guard, is our lockdown defender who has developed from a mid range shooter into a 3-point and a penetration threat.”

Junior guard Olivia Hnem is a 3-point shooter who has a great knack for getting into the paint and finishing.

“She is always working on making her game better,” Johnson said. “Gracie Swanepoel, junior forward, is a great role player. She does the little things that do not show up on the stat sheet but helps the team tremendously. Sidney Roe, sophomore point guard, is our floor general who greatly improved as the season progressed. We are looking for her to have a greater impact this season on both ends of the floor.”

Two newcomers may also see opportunities to make an impact as the season develops.

“Rylie Phillps and Milly Brinkman, I hope they contribute by bringing fresh perspective, hard work and a willingness to learn,” Johnson said. “Their contribution isn’t just measured in points or rebounds, but in attitude, effort and commitment to the team’s goals.”

Johnson said senior leadership will be important, particularly from Quintanilla.

“I expect Jaretsi to set the tone for our team both on and off the court,” Johnson said. “She leads by example through their work ethic, positive attitude and accountability. I expect her to communicate effectively, encourage her teammates and hold everyone to a high standard.”

Defense and chemistry may be among the team’s early strengths.

“We take pride in playing hard on every possession and we are continually communicating, rotating, and helping each other out on defense,” Johnson said.

On the offensive end, the Lady Trojans are looking to grow.

“We want to keep improving our offensive execution, particularly in handling pressure and making quicker decisions with the ball,” Johnson said. “Building confidence under defensive pressure and improving our shot selection will help us become more efficient and balanced offensively.”

Johnson said one rivalry matchup stands out as a game he hopes will draw strong community support.

“I feel Purdy would be the one since they are close and a Conference opponent,” he said.

Johnson said the schedule should provide strong tests throughout the season.

“I feel our schedule is strong and well-balanced,” he said. “It challenges our players, helps them grow, and prepares us for the intensity of district play. Each game is an opportunity to improve and show what our team is capable of.”

Outside of play on the court, Johnson said the bonds built within the team may be the program’s greatest distinguishing trait.

“What makes this year’s girls basketball team special is their heart and togetherness,” Johnson said. “They play for each other, put the team first, and never shy away from the little things such as diving for loose balls, making the extra pass and bringing energy every possession. That selfless mindset and strong chemistry set them apart and make our program something I’m proud to lead.”

Southwest opens the season Nov. 22 in Verona Tip-Off Classic. The home opener is Dec. 8 against Pierce City.