On March 7, the Lady Jags’ impressive season came to an end in the Alamodome with a record of 29–8. It had been 11 years since they last appeared in the playoffs, and this was their first time attending the UIL State Championships.
“It means the world [to play on this team]. When you’ve gone to the state championship for the first time in school history, it’s monumental,” junior forward Maci Pringle said.
Being successful in basketball takes more than skill. It requires a well-bonded group of people who work together, and this team had just that.
“The people are special. Every year I’ve been at Flower Mound, there’s never been a team that’s the same. So definitely the teammates made [this season] different!” Pringle said.
Earning a spot in the Alamodome took endurance. Their season begins in mid-November with three practices and two games every week. Coaches also use scouting reports to analyze opponents by detailing team or individual strengths and weaknesses.
“Our practices during playoffs felt more intense than the others because we wanted to win so badly… At times, our district games were very mentally and physically draining, but they helped us get better and be able to make it to state,” junior guard Maya Garza said.
UIL girls basketball is structured in six rounds: bi-district, area, regional semifinals/finals, and state semifinals/finals.
“The farther we moved in the playoffs, the stronger our determination to execute became,” Garza said.
Beyond the players and coaches, there were others working behind the scenes. The Lady Jags have student trainers who assist certified athletic trainers. Trainers help prevent injuries, ensure players stay hydrated, and assist with rehabilitation.
“It became more when I formed bonds with some of the girls, and all the surface-level things turned into me being able to be there for them when they were struggling, not only physically but mentally as well,” senior student trainer Ghizai Imoke said.
Due to the public’s preconceived notions about not only the Lady Jags but girls basketball in general, people had their doubts about their success. Despite this, the girls persisted.
“Cheering on the team since the beginning and seeing how far they’ve come, not only as a team but individually, has been so fulfilling… It was amazing seeing them fight through all the doubts and adversity and make history in Flower Mound,” Imoke said.
After this season’s accomplishments, the team has a newfound confidence moving forward.
“We have a brand-new season to try and do it all over again, and we are going to use experience to leverage us every step of the way,” Pringle said.
