Sports

By Brian Johnson Sports Editor bjohnson@news-star.com After coming within a game of reaching the Class 5A State Tournament during the 2023-24 season, the Shawnee Lady Wolves look to take that next step this year. Coach Wendi Wells’ Shawnee squad, 17-10 a year ago, flourished many times due to a suffocating defense. The Lady Wolves return their top scorer in 5-8 junior guard Daley Rice and welcome back two other starters in 5-6 junior guard Tarilyn Thierry and 5-6 senior forward Allyson McAlister. Chrishelle Milum, a 5-8 sophomore guard who gained valuable experience in reserve role last season, is a projected starter in 2024-25 and transfer Josie Megehee, a 5-8 senior, is expected to provide a huge lift to Shawnee’s offensive fortunes. Rice owned averages of 10.9 in scoring, 6.0 in rebounding, 3.5 in assists and 1.9 in steals last season. She was a First Team 5A All-District 1 honoree last year and made multiple all-tournament teams. “Daley played every position for us at some point. She can handle the ball and can score from all three levels,” said Wells. “She brings a calm to the team when she is on the floor. She is the ultimate competitor, so she will battle till the very end. She’s an amazing teammate, because as a natural point guard, she is always looking for her teammates first.” Thierry averaged 6.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2.3 steals a year ago. “Tarilyn is a feisty point guard who can get after the ball handlers on defense. She is great on the attack off the dribble to the hole,” Wells said. “She has expanded her game to be a really good 3-point shooter.” McAlister possessed averages of 3.7 (scoring), 2.8 (rebounding), 0.5 (assists) and 0.3 (steals) in 2023-24. “Allyson is physical and strong and can […]