By Moses leos III

Playing big despite a lack of size could translate to success for the Lehman Lady Lobos basketball team in 2015. 

To accomplish that goal, the Lobos will continue to focus on speeding up the tempo. 

“Our girls are working hard to be successful, because we’re not big. So we’re going to have to play big,” senior Lauren Fowler said. “It’s not how big you are, but how big you play.” 

Steering the Lady Lobos will be a senior laden roster, led by Fowler and guard Angel Cruz. Joining them will be seven other seniors, including Starr Rivers, Cheyenne Morgan and Kayla Martinez. 

Lady Lobo head coach Jamie Coy said their experience in a difficult district last season will translate to 14-6A play. 

“I think it helps them, because it gives them experience to play a tough team and what that pace of play looks like,” Coy said. 

Two areas Coy wants the team to address are scoring points in transition and consistent shooting from the perimeter. 

Fowler said improving speed and agility has been the focal point of practice for the Lady Lobos. Conditioning drills helped the squad get into shape to fly down the court. 

Another factor is team chemistry. With several new players joining the team, getting the newer players assimilated to the speed of varsity basketball is vital. 

The seniors took on a leadership role during practices, following the footsteps of former Lady Lobo Olivia Marzullo who fostered that kind of leadership last season. 

“Everyone looks up to us and what we do,” Cruz said. “We want to be known as the seniors they want to be.” 

But focusing on improving defense is a priority. Lehman gave up a total of 1,558 points last season, 743 in district play. 

Coy and the Lobos hope to avoiding similar struggles this season. Playing to other teams’ weaknesses could spur improvement for the Lady Lobos, as could suppressing opponents’ leading scorers. 

“We struggle defensively every year,” Coy said. “If we can stop other teams from scoring on us, we’re going to be successful.”