BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — The first official day of high school basketball practice is set for Oct. 15. As the date approaches, the Martin County Cardinals and Lady Cardinals are riding on the momentum of their remarkable 2022-2023 campaigns and are eager to prepare for the 2023-2024 season.
Last year, the Cardinals etched their name in history by securing the school’s first-ever 15th Region All “A” Classic championship. They also clinched the 57th District Tournament and defeated Pikeville to claim the 15th Regional Tournament title, earning a spot in the Sweet 16.
Meanwhile, the Lady Cardinals had an impressive streak, clinching the 57th Conference and the 57th District Tournament titles for the third time in the past four years.
Both teams will open the regular season with demanding schedules in six short weeks, promising an exciting, action-packed journey.
Cardinals coach Jason James has marked the first official practice for Sunday at 6 p.m. His squad will focus on conditioning. The initial week will be about maintaining high energy levels and fostering intense competition. Defensive strategies and pressing tactics will be front and center. On the offensive side, the team will concentrate on motion offense, particularly spacing.
Having graduated only one senior in 2023, the Cardinals return key players Luke Hale, who averaged 20 points per game last season, Brayden McKenzie, Dray Duff, Jacob Sturgell and Blake Maynard. Peyton Davis and Devan Maynard will also be back in action.
On the women’s side, the Lady Cards complete roster returns, raising expectations. The season is special for seniors Laken Williams, Katie Marcum, Alyssa Allen, Kennadi Mollett, Sophie McCoy, Hallie Mills and Tamara Workman, who are preparing to conclude their high school journey.
Lady Cardinals coach Robin Newsome will count on Williams, one of the state’s top scorers who averaged 21.2 points per game last season, and Marcum, recognized for her 14 double-doubles. Allen, Mollette and other senior players will be vital, as will junior Candace Spaulding and emerging sophomores Brooke Marcum, Chloe May and Sophie Harless. This year’s team will feature 6-foot-4 eighth grader Maci Maynard.
Coach Newsome emphasized the challenging schedule ahead. Her team will dedicate the starting week to conditioning and fundamental drills.
Basketball fans can catch both teams in action Nov. 25 at the Zip Zone Express Tip Off Classic hosted by Martin County High School.
The Lady Cardinals will kick off their season at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28 against Menifee County at home.
The Cardinals will open the season against Breathitt County at Hazard at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2.
Martin County will host the 57th District Tournament this season.