TAHLEQUAH LADY TIGERS 

GIRLS

Coach: DAVID QUALLS

23-24 Record: 24-3

The Tahlequah Lady Tigers head into the 2024 season with a new look after graduating six seniors, including all five starters from last year’s highly successful squad. While the team may be young and inexperienced, head coach David Qualls is optimistic about what his players can achieve as they grow throughout the season. “This is a very young and inexperienced group this season,” said Qualls. “We graduated six seniors who played quite a bit last year. Once we get a handful of games under our belts, we should be able to find ways to be competitive towards the end of the season.”

One of the key players for the Lady Tigers this season is junior guard Carsyn Gilbert (5-8, Jr.). Gilbert earned valuable minutes last season as part of the rotation and will now be expected to take on a larger role with the graduation of the senior class. Known for her versatility, Gilbert is capable of scoring from all three levels and will be a crucial piece of the puzzle for the Lady Tigers this year. She’ll be counted on not only for her scoring ability but also to lead the team on both ends of the floor. Another player who is expected to step up this season is sophomore guard Lakyn Adams (5-6, So.). Adams, who will be thrust into the starting point guard role due to an injury, is quick, athletic, and determined to make an impact. As the Lady Tigers’ primary ball handler, she’ll have the responsibility of running the offense and setting up her teammates for success.

Junior forward Lauren Stephens (6-0, Jr.) will also be an important contributor for the Lady Tigers this season. Stephens will anchor the post and bring her athleticism and versatility to both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. A state qualifier in tennis and a starter in volleyball, Stephens’ experience in multiple sports speaks to her ability to compete at a high level. Her leadership and physicality will be vital for a team that will rely on her presence in the paint. While the Lady Tigers face the challenge of rebuilding with a younger roster, the foundation of talent, determination, and hard work is already in place. As the season progresses, they’ll look to develop chemistry and confidence, with the potential to become a formidable team in the latter part of the year. Coach Qualls is excited to see how his players rise to the occasion and take on new roles as they work towards another successful season.

Roster:

Carsyn Gilbert (5-8, Jr., G) – 2.2 ppg

Lauren Stephens (6-0, Jr., F) – 1.8 ppg

Lakyn Adams (5-6, So., G) – 1.4 ppg

Haley Wilson (5-5, Jr., G)

Riley Dotson (5-6, Jr., G) – 1.2 ppg