Can Poly Go All The Way in 3A?
The Lady Engineers have been close a few times over the past few years but have not been able to close the deal for that elusive state championship. This year’s team looks more capable than any other that Coach Kendall…
Access all of Prep Girls Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingThe Lady Engineers have been close a few times over the past few years but have not been able to close the deal for that elusive state championship. This year’s team looks more capable than any other that Coach Kendall Peace has had. Poly returns a core group that advanced to last year’s 3A championship, where they fell to Frederick in a hard fought game. This year could be the year that they finally get over the hump.
After watching the Engineers battle one of the top teams in the country over the weekend in Riverdale Baptist, I am convinced of two things. The first is that Poly needs consistency. They lost to the Crusaders 65-53 in a very competitive game. It came down to scoring droughts for Poly. They only scored 4 points in the first quarter and dug themselves a big hole. They got good looks but simply did not make them. The team surged in the second half and took a brief lead but could not match Riverdale’s fire power. Secondly, they have all the pieces to become a dominant defensive team by the end of the season. Strong, competitive and athletic players all through the roster looks like a formula for success. Here’s a look at some of the key pieces.
Dasia Townes, Senior Wing.
“Stix” is the straw that stirs the Poly drink. The versatile six foot wing has signed to play with Virginia Commonwealth University and will need to be a consistent scorer for her team to bring it all home. I think she is up to the challenge.
Cache Wilson, Senior Point Guard
The fearless floor general signed with the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore and will need to provide efficient and steady play down the stretch when the games count most. Cache is never one to back down from any challenge so there is no doubt she will compete at a high level. Coach Peace has some new back court players so this is a situation where Cache won’t have to do as much, just do what she does better.
Ajae Petty, Senior Post
The athletic Lousiana State recruit joins the Engineers for her senior season. She has to sit out four games because of enrollment rules but she should make a major contribution this year. She is a smart and vocal defender that can score and rebound as well. Her presence will ensure that Poly dominates Baltimore City this year.
Tenea Robinson, Junior Wing
Tenea’s outside shooting and scoring in general will be crucial. She has looked good so far this season so that’s a good sign for the Engineers.
Jada Gross, Senior Wing
Jada is a good three perimeter shooter and that’s what she needs to do consistently, hit threes and stretch the floor and defend.
Trinity Massenburg, Freshman Post
Trinity is a rugged and physical player that is still refining her offense. She won’t need to score much this season so she will be able to focus on what’s she’s good at, defense and rebounding.
Da’ Bryia Clark, Freshman Guard
Not many freshmen play with the confidence that this kid does. She believes that she can score on anyone at any time and that’s what she tries to do. Bri is getting her FGA’s one way or another. Watch her work.
Kaziyah Akinniyi, Sophomore Guard
I’m intrigued by this 5’9″ transfer from Loch Raven. She wanted better competition and opportunities so she made a move. Another solid guard that can facilitate and score might be just what Poly needs to get over the hump.