By: Matthew Revels, Sports Editor
Newman’s women’s basketball team began its season on Friday by playing in the Central Region Challenge against Southern Arkansas, losing 46-96. The team then played on Nov. 11 and 14 and was handed two more losses against University of Arkansas Monticello (48-69) and William Jewell College (60-84).
Even though the games ended in losses, first-year head coach Amy Briggs said she is confident in her team's ability to compete.
“(We) hope to continue to get better every practice and game along with continuing to grow and learn our system,” Briggs said.
Her goal for the season, she said, is simple: “Make the MIAA conference tournament.”
The team was able to make it into the 2022 tournament but was handed a loss in the first round against Northwest Missouri State.
As the season continues, Briggs said, fans should keep their eyes on a few players, including seniors Carissa Beck and Amiya Josey.
“We also have a great group of sophomores and freshmen to be on the lookout for,” she said.
One of those sophomores is forward Valeriya Lioukina, who is averaging 12 points a game.
Briggs said she hopes to make an impact on her players during her first season at Newman and said her team will need to approach each day with confidence, positivity and work ethic.
She said she hopes to coach “a connected team on and off the court, playing with lots of energy on the court. We also care about each other off the court.”
The team starts a five-game home stretch on Friday against East Central with its first home game on Thursday, Nov. 30, against Lincoln University.
The team asks that spectators wear white to the game.
PHOTO: Courtesy photo, Newman Athletics
