BY BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Two Lady Cards basketball players finished their AAU summer season this past weekend in Cincinnati. Katie Ann Marcum and Laken Williams played in The Finale with their AAU team, the Lady Dragons.

The junior duo have been teammates since they were eighth graders, and this was their first summer with the Dragons, who have a 29-12 record.

In their last three tournaments, they played 10 games in seven days in Louisville and Cincinnati. This week, the squad went 3-1.

In The Finale, Marcum recorded 10 points and eight rebounds. Williams dropped 16 points to go with her two rebounds. Laken also played well defensively, garnering four steals for the game.

“It was so crazy how all of us already connected on the court. It was an amazing experience to play with all these new girls and coach,” Marcum said. “I got to play against stronger and bigger girls. This is preparing me for the next big step in my life. I just want to thank everyone that had a hand in this.”

The experience has helped the Lady Cards prepare for the upcoming season.

Williams shared a similar sentiment.

“I get to go against players outside of the 15th and 16th regions with different styles of play,” Williams said. “Eastern Kentucky girls do not get the exposure that we should. Travel ball helps to get us seen by different college coaches.

“It has helped me receive two offers so far. I’m focusing on working harder to get better. Hopefully it opens the door for more opportunities to accomplish my dreams of playing ball at the next level and getting my education,” she added.

Marcum believes that this has strengthened their connection on and off the court.

“It means so much to me,” said Marcum. “I feel blessed to have played with Laken all these years.”