Oak Park-River Forest junior McKale Thompson is not worried about her team’s record.
The Huskies, who lost 12 of their first 13 games, are a work in progress toward their goal of a turnaround season next winter.
Led by 10 juniors, including Thompson, the Huskies are attempting to gain some big-game experience to make some noise in the West Suburban Silver next season.
Thompson, a first-year varsity player, said the Huskies haven’t let their win-loss record affect their attitude. The Huskies lost their first two games at the Montini Christmas Tournament against Benet and Loyola. Neither game was particularly close, but OPRF tested Fremd before losing 50-34 on Saturday in a consolation game.
“It’s a really rewarding experience to have a team that’s really close and supportive,” Thompson said. “We don’t focus on our record. We’re working on playing as a team and getting even closer.”
Thompson, a guard, is receiving quality instruction by watching senior guard Tatym Coe operate on the floor. Coe was one of the bright spots in the blowout loss to the Ramblers. She plays with some flash to her game and sparked the Huskies with two scoring surges in the second half. She has been forced to carry a heavy load due to injuries to Lilah Gery and Alia Anderson.
“Tatym has such a unique leadership style,” Thompson said. “She’s not afraid to be tough on you and encourage you and believes in you. She’s very vocal and helpful. I’m really excited for next year, just because of all I’ve learned from her.”
Senior forward Karly Cantrell entered the Montini tournament averaging close to 15 rebounds per game, according to OPRF coach JP Coughlin. Cantrell’s strength and size caused fits for Loyola’s interior players.
Cantrell, who also plays softball, said she’s been encouraged by the team’s positive mindset through its early struggles.
“We have a really good connection and are staying positive,” Cantrell said. “We’re working really hard every game, playing some of the top teams in the state. If we keep pushing, we should do well.”
Coughlin praised Cantrell for her leadership and said he has been encouraged by Thompson’s growth this season.
“Karly works really hard,” he said. “She’s playing basketball for the love of the sport and has been a fantastic leader.
“McKale is a former freshman B-team player who struggled to get off the bench but is a starter now. She has stepped up with the injuries and really taken on a prominent role and is a really good defender. She’s been shooting really well. We’re using this tournament to get these juniors some development who can help for next year.”
Coughlin acknowledged that the injuries and a tough schedule have played a big role in his team’s slow start.
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“They have stayed positive, which keeps me positive,” he said. “They are a wonderful group of girls. We have a lot of juniors. We could have five or six wins. We’re going to stay positive. They practice really well, but it’s a lot of first-year varsity players, and varsity basketball is really hard, especially with the schedule we play.”
Bob Narang is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter @Pioneer_Press