WESTERN HEIGHTS JETS

GIRLS

Coach: Curtis Finchum

2022-23 Record: 4-16

It’s year two of a rebuild for Curtis Finchum’s crew, and he’s got an exciting core of underclassmen who will be painting on the blank canvas of Western Heights basketball culture this season. “As we continue our program rebuild, the future is bright with a talented group of freshmen and a rising sophomore point guard,” Finchum said. “We also have some quality junior and seniors to help round out the program to help carry us throughout the season as our youngsters grow and develop.” Aaliyah Wright (5-4, So.), the aforementioned point guard, has been a “joy to coach,” Funchum said, and she should land on some recruiting radars this year.

“Aaliyah Wright needs to be looked at more. She’s fresh onto the scene this season with us and will be our starting point guard. She has a great ability to create and get to the rim and score off the dribble. Her jumpshot is developing  nicely and she should be a three-level scorer before the end of her sopohomore season,” Finchum said. “Her infectious and goofy personality follow her onto the floor and energize her teammates.” I’onia Howell (5-3, Jr.) has only been playing basketball a couple years, but she’s already a veteran on the team. “I’onia is only in her second year playing basketball, but she by far had the most growth and development since last season,” Finchum said. “She has her sights set on being a starter for the varsity and leading the team in 3-point shooting. She works her tail off defensively and offensively, while being that ball of energy every team needs at practice and in games.” The Jets open at home Friday, Dec. 1 against Crossings Christian. They’ll play in the Minco Tournament on Dec. 8-10; the Lindsay Tournament on