The Blog

Girls Basketball Preview

The Nebraska Christian Lady Eagles basketball team may be lacking in numbers, but what they are missing in quantity they make up for in heart and intensity. This year’s team is comprised of twelve girls. The girls lost three valuable seniors from last year’s class, and they will have to find ways to fill their shoes. They have also gained six freshmen, eager to contribute.

This freshman class is a special group of girls. They are excited about the game of basketball, eager to learn, and possess very good fundamentals. It will be exciting to watch them step up and fill roles and grow this season.

In addition to all the new players joining the team, the Eagles acquired a new assistant coach, Marty Griess. Griess’s son Cody (12) and daughter Molly (9) both play basketball for NC, and her older sons played while at Nebraska Christian. She brings a wealth of basketball knowledge and a critical eye to the team’s dynamic.

Unfortunately, injuries have already plagued the Lady Eagles. Steph Strobel (11) is out for the season after recently undergoing ACL surgery. Freshman Lizzy Powers has also struggled with a knee injury and is currently recovering.

The girls logged countless hours this summer honing in their basketball skills. They participated in camps, attended open gyms, and lifted rigorously. This dedication has created a more unified, stronger, faster, and more athletic team. Tenny Sebek (10), who transferred from Hampton at the end of last school year and will be participating in her first season with the Eagles, said, “I’m looking forward to what could turn out to be a great season. Our team has a unique makeup with lots of freshmen and seniors. It is going to be fun to see how the different amounts of experience come together. Our first and foremost goal is to glorify God through more than just praying before the game. In every shuffle, shot, and dribble, the glory goes to Him.”

Earlier this month, the Lady Eagles showcased their new team at the sports drink scrimmage. The small team showed much potential as they scrimmaged amongst themselves.

Erin Mankin, NC’s third-year head coach, said of the upcoming season, “I’m excited for this season for many reasons. I think our team has a different mindset as we look to play for more than just ourselves. We have a team that competes hard against each other every day in practice which continues to make us better. I think we have the potential to have a ‘successful’ season both in the way the world sees success, but more importantly, in the eyes of the Lord.”

The girls kick off the 2018-2019 basketball season at home against the St. Edward Beavers tonight (Nov. 30) at 5 p.m. Be there to support your Lady Eagles basketball team!