Cross – Though it’s early in the season, the Cross High basketball teams are playing well and off to a good start to the 2023-24 season.
Both the boys and girls teams are looking to contend for a region championship this winter as each team returns a wealth of experience to their respective rosters.
The girls team opened the season by winning five of their first games under third-year coach Angela Hall. Among the early season wins were victories over AAAAA Stall and AA Lower State contender Timberland.
“This team has a lot of potential,” Hall said. “We have experience and we have some talent. The key with this team will be their focus and consistency. If we can stay focused every day in practice and be consistent with our energy and our effort, we can have a very successful season.
“We have shown what we are capable of with the wins but we also had a loss to Timberland in a game where we simply didn’t show up with the same energy. I keep stressing that whether we are at home or on the road, we have to bring the same energy and focus. That’s what championship teams do.”
Junior point guard Lauren Middleton is one of the top players this season. Middleton is averaging 16.2 points and 5.3 assists through the first six games.
“She’s having a good year so far,” Hall said. “She seems to be more relaxed and more confident in her role this season.”
Junior Zhnia Fredricks also scores in double figures, averaging 11.1 points per game. Senior Diamonique Nelson is a veteran guard and adds nearly eight points and 3.2 steals per game.
Senior forward Ma’Laysia Johnson averages 8.5 points and 8.7 rebounds early on, while 5-11 sophomore Kierra Wright has been productive inside as well.
The boys team also is 5-1 early under coach Chaquain Boone. Cross finished 13-9 last season and Boone has a wealth of experience back.
Senior Jamez Way leads the team in scoring at 18.8 points per game, adding 5.3 steals per contest. Sophomore forward Caden Ramsey is averaging 16.2 points and 11.6 rebounds in the early going.
Senior guard Dominick Lampkin is adding 11.3 points and 4.2 rebounds while junior Preston Fuller contributes 8.7 points per game.
Seniors Cobey Coleman and Malik Becoate, along with junior Micah Flute are providing solid minutes on the floor as well. Senior D’andre Bartelle and junior Lavell Joyner round out the 2023-24 roster.
All Rights Reserved | The High School Sports Report 1986-2021