Royal girls have height, experience

ROYAL CITY - The Royal High School girls have had a rough time of it and basketball in recent years, but things could change this winter.

All of the starters on Phil Daubel's team last year are back for this season. They will have height and experience.

"I'm hoping this year we turn the corner," Daubel said. "The girls have been more aggressive in practice, and our shooting seems to be coming around.

The Knights will be led by 5-10 senior captains Kayla Smith and Brittany Jo Hebdon.

Smith, a three-year starter, began last season as a post player. Then she moved to the wing, from where she was able to shoot more. Hebdon, another three-year starter, is a post player, But Daubel says her outside game has improved.

The three other returning starters are senior Flor Araujo, junior Jackie Guadarrama and junior Becca Lee. Araujo and Lee are two-year starters. All three are in the 5-4 range.

Araujo was the point guard last year, but she had some brilliant nights scoring in double figures. Guadarrama is an all-around athlete. Lee has a strong physical presence.

"She'll do whatever it takes," Daubel said.

Two more girls from last year's team are 5-10 junior Kailee Harris and 5-6 senior Dory Floren. Daubel expects them to make major contributions this year, with Harris first off the bench.

"This is only Dory's third year in basketball," Daubel said. "She learns fast. We have to tell her only once."

The Royal girls will start at home tonight against Quincy. They will host Cascade Thursday, Naches on Saturday and Medical Lake next Tuesday.