Watching a young team grow in confidence is one of the pure pleasures of sports. The Mineola Lady Jackets are living this process as they continue to gather steam for district action.

A signature win, to reassure the team that they are on the right track, is often a pivotal moment in this process. They achieved this mark by claiming the New Diana Invitational Basketball Tournament the weekend of Nov. 19.  

The Lady Jackets recorded wins over New Diana (39-24), Grace Community (51-29), Longview Pine Tree (45-37) and Mt. Vernon (46-41). After falling to Waskom early in the tourney, the Lady Jackets met Waskom again in the championship game and took the gold 48-39. 

Coach Alan Wilson remarked, “The tournament win was just huge for us. It was a great confidence-builder for the team. They are beginning to believe that they are a good team.”

Coming off that tournament victory, the Lady Jackets defeated the visiting Ladycats of Sulphur Springs, 40-29, Monday, Nov. 22.

The first half of the game was a struggle for both squads. While each team produced decent shooting opportunities, the finish was lacking by each team.

Mineola successfully pressured the ball at every turn. The effect was not felt on the scoreboard, however, as the Lady Jackets failed to consistently transition from trap to turnover to scoring opportunity. Over-ambitious passing was a problem throughout the game. 

Sulphur Springs tied the game, 20-20, with the first points of the third quarter. Mineola then embarked on an 11-0 run, fueled by the inside game of Mylee Fischer, the quick hands of Paris Spigner and the soft jumpshots of Jayla and Kyra Jackson. 

Mineola began the final quarter with a 34-23 lead. Sulphur Springs began to trap the Lady Jackets in the forecourt – a tactic which initially proved successful. Mineola quickly adapted, however, and with a combination of hustle and intelligent play, denied the Ladycats any comeback.

Several features of the Lady Jackets’ game stood out. Finishing strong at the basket and driving decisively were both recent and notable improvements. Additionally, ball movement in the offensive zone was significantly improved over the start of the season. 

Solid fundamental play remains a strength of the Mineola basketball program. Playing aggressive defense, moving one’s feet, establishing rebounding position and executing set plays are already a part of the Lady Jackets’ game. 

Before district play commences, the Mineola squad will certainly improve on when to push the ball and how to attack in the offensive zone without hesitation. The season is gearing up to be a season of quality basketball.   

The next opportunity to see the Lady Jackets in action is this weekend in the Grand Saline tournament. The next home game is Dec. 7 as they host Lone Oak. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.

District play commences Dec. 14 at Winona.