ROCKINGHAM – The Lady Raiders dropped their first game following a strong Christmas tournament run, but head coach Reader came away encouraged by her team’s effort and execution against a much larger South Mecklenburg squad.
“Coming in, knew South Meck was going to be big, big girls down low,” Reader said. “Honestly, we played better than I anticipated.”
The Lady Raiders opened the game with a clear defensive plan, using a zone to limit post touches and force perimeter play. The strategy paid off early, as the team executed effectively on defense and carried a 26-25 lead into halftime.
“Our defensive zone scheme in the first half was very effective,” Reader said. “We came in with a strategy to eliminate the post, and it was working perfectly.”
Momentum shifted in the third quarter, however, when the Raiders struggled to maintain control in the paint and had difficulty executing offensively.
“We lost the post in the third quarter, and it kind of cost us the game,” Reader said. “We failed to execute on the offensive side, which led us to not scoring a lot of points while they continued to score.”
The game came at the end of a demanding stretch for the team, which included two Christmas tournaments before the return to school.
“We’ve played a lot,” Reader said. “Physically and mentally, there was a lot on them. We’re looking forward to getting back in the gym, making adjustments, and getting ready for conference play.”
Despite the loss, Reader emphasized the lesson she hopes her team takes moving forward.
“It doesn’t matter the size, it’s a matter of heart,” she said. “If you box out, execute, and stick to the game plan, you can compete with anybody. Just keep competing and keep fighting.”
As the Lady Raiders prepare for conference play, the focus remains clear: defense, communication, execution, and toughness.
“Be strong mentally,” Reader said. “Be dogs. Get out there, work hard, and leave it all on the court.”