Semoball

SCC Bravettes ready to end 30 year wait

SCC's Nikki Adams (12) drives to the basket during a 55-54 loss to Oak Ridge in the consolation finals of the Scott-Mississippi Conference Tournament at Kelly High School on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024.
Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

It’s been 30 years since the Scott County Central girls made a state championship run. 

A generation has passed since the Bravettes last tasted that glory, however, with a talented roster and dedicated coaching staff, this year’s team might have the potential to end that drought. 

“For so long, we have had to rely on underclassmen to play varsity minutes,” said SCC coach Andrew Pullen. “This year, while many teams are rebuilding, we are at a place where we have experienced players, and this may prove to be an advantage in many games.”

The program boasts a rich history, having secured seven state championships, the third most by any girls’ program in Missouri. Yet, the last time they cut down the nets was in 1993.

“We’ve taken our fair share of lumps in previous seasons,” Pullen continued. “This year, our girls are older, focused, and ready to turn the corner. It would be great to make a run. Some great teams stand in the way, and it will not be easy. But this could be a great comeback season. It’s really up to how hard the girls work to get there.”

Leading the charge for the Bravettes is senior forward Nikki Adams, whose prowess around the rim and relentless hustle make her a formidable presence. Averaging 17.3 points per game last season, Adams was one of the top scorers in southeast Missouri. 

Her ability to execute post moves is a rare asset at the high school level, providing the team with a reliable scoring option.

Junior guard Camarie Purdue, the team’s primary ball-handler, will play a crucial role in orchestrating the offense. 

Her decision-making will be pivotal as the Bravettes aim to implement a fast-paced, pressure-defense style, harkening back to the program’s storied tradition.

“We plan on getting back to our SCC roots,” Pullen said. “A fast-paced with pressure defense. However, we will be prepared to slow the game down when necessary.  Our key philosophy is to be prepared for any situation and be ready to adapt on the fly. “

Sophomore guard Lainey Glueck, who impressed as a freshman with 8.4 points per game, is expected to continue her upward trajectory, bringing high expectations.

Senior guard Bella Sutton adds a layer of defense, energy, and leadership, while junior shooting guard Elliana Britt, known for her shooting and stamina, is poised to become more clutch in critical moments.

Despite the promising roster, the Bravettes face the challenge of overcoming key losses from graduating seniors Madalynn Carlisle and Reagen Evans, who have moved on to collegiate sports. To fill these gaps, Pullen emphasizes the importance of conditioning and fundamentals.

“It is imperative that our girls get into the best physical shape as possible for us to accomplish the goals we have set this season,” the coach stated. “The style we plan on playing will be dependent on how much stamina the girls have. We plan on conditioning harder this season and fine-tuning our fundamentals.”

The Bravettes have set ambitious goals for the upcoming season, aiming for a strong showing in the First State Community Bank Holiday Tournament and making a statement in the Scott-Mississippi Conference. Then, ultimately, they hope to make a deep postseason run at a state championship.

 “Our primary goal is to get better and better as the season progresses,” Pullen said. “If State isn’t a goal, the work we are putting into practice isn’t going to be worth it.

“Start the story exactly like this: 

It’s been 30 years since the Scott County Central girls made a state championship run. 

A generation has passed since the Bravettes last tasted that glory, however, with a talented roster and dedicated coaching staff, this year’s team might have the potential to end that drought. 

“For so long, we have had to rely on underclassmen to play varsity minutes,” said SCC coach Andrew Pullen. “This year, while many teams are rebuilding, we are at a place where we have experienced players, and this may prove to be an advantage in many games.”

The program boasts a rich history, having secured seven state championships, the third most by any girls’ program in Missouri. Yet, the last time they cut down the nets was in 1993.

“We’ve taken our fair share of lumps in previous seasons,” Pullen continued. “This year, our girls are older, focused, and ready to turn the corner. It would be great to make a run. Some great teams stand in the way, and it will not be easy. But this could be a great comeback season. It’s really up to how hard the girls work to get there.”

Leading the charge for the Bravettes is senior forward Nikki Adams, whose prowess around the rim and relentless hustle make her a formidable presence. Averaging 17.3 points per game last season, Adams was one of the top scorers in southeast Missouri. 

Her ability to execute post moves is a rare asset at the high school level, providing the team with a reliable scoring option.

Junior guard Camarie Purdue, the team’s primary ball-handler, will play a crucial role in orchestrating the offense. 

Her decision-making will be pivotal as the Bravettes aim to implement a fast-paced, pressure-defense style, harkening back to the program’s storied tradition.

“We plan on getting back to our SCC roots,” Pullen said. “A fast-paced with pressure defense. However, we will be prepared to slow the game down when necessary.  Our key philosophy is to be prepared for any situation and be ready to adapt on the fly. “

Sophomore guard Lainey Glueck, who impressed as a freshman with 8.4 points per game, is expected to continue her upward trajectory, bringing high expectations.

Senior guard Bella Sutton adds a layer of defense, energy, and leadership, while junior shooting guard Elliana Britt, known for her shooting and stamina, is poised to become more clutch in critical moments.

Despite the promising roster, the Bravettes face the challenge of overcoming key losses from graduating seniors Madalynn Carlisle and Reagen Evans, who have moved on to collegiate sports. To fill these gaps, Pullen emphasizes the importance of conditioning and fundamentals.

“It is imperative that our girls get into the best physical shape possible for us to accomplish the goals we have set this season,” the coach stated. “The style we plan on playing will be dependent on how much stamina the girls have. We plan on conditioning harder this season and fine-tuning our fundamentals.”

The Bravettes have set ambitious goals for the upcoming season, aiming for a strong showing in the First State Community Bank Holiday Tournament and making a statement in the Scott-Mississippi Conference. Then, ultimately, they hope to make a deep postseason run at a state championship.

“Our primary goal is to get better and better as the season progresses,” Pullen said. “If State isn’t a goal, the work we are putting into practice isn’t going to be worth it.”

“We want to thank all the parents and SCC Bravettes fans who have stuck by us throughout the years,” Pullen concluded. “We understand it’s been quite the journey, and we’re hopeful to make everyone proud this season.”

SCC will compete in Class 1, District 1 this season. 

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