For the early part of the season, we’re going to be doing posts focusing on different schools in our continuous effort to fill your girls basketball appetite. Looking at: Peekskill.
There have been many doubters about Peekskill this season with questions concerning the type of team it will be this season. It’s easy to doubt the defending New York State Class A champions due to the fact that the Red Devils have lost 4 of its 5 starters from last year’s all-star squad. But despite graduating four key pieces to its championship team, the Red Devils remain in good shape with senior guard Asia Jackson leading the way, so don’t count them out just yet.
How last season ended: Peekskill finished 24-2 last year, claiming the New York State Class A championship and Section 1 title.
Top players lost to graduation: Losing a chunk of their main scorers from last season, the Red Devils graduated Jazmin Garcia (Stetson Univ); Sheridan Taylor (Baruch College); Kiana Letsinger (Monroe CC); and Tasia Nolan (Bluefield State Univ.).
Top returners: Senior guard Asia Jackson returns and will be looking to do a majority of the scoring for the Red Devils this season, but she’s not alone. Senior guard Troi Nolan will be equally important, as both players are interchangeable at both guard positions. They can push an up-tempo style of play, finish with a quick move to the basket, and prove to be just as deadly with the ability to connect from the outside. Sophomore forward Latisha Clark will also play an important role this season after working in the offseason to improve her scoring.
Biggest strength: Head coach Rodney Headley Jr. believes defense will be the Red Devils’ biggest strength this year, as Peekskill replaces its size from last year with speed this year.
Biggest concern: Rebounding could be an issue for Peekskill, but coach Headley Jr. will be hoping that his two sophomore forwards in Latisha Clark and Shaina Iton can handle the work load that lies ahead. They will be logging heavy minutes this season and should be ready for the challenge.
Rival: Ossining. The Pride will host Peekskill on Friday, Jan. 13 at 4:15 p.m.
