MLCA looks to increase intensity
MLCA's Anna Yarbro figures to be a key component in the Lions' future success.
MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake Christian Academy head girls basketball coach Jessica Anissipour wants her team to play with more of an edge.
After a disappointing 50-43 loss to Taholah in the regional playoffs, Anissipour questioned her team's commitment to playing hard.
"The girls had to want it and they didn't look like they did," she said.
During pregame warm ups, Anissipour felt her team would be able to handle Taholah and advance to the state tournament. However, the Lions fell flat and left the coach searching for the mentality that was evident in the district tournament.
"They just let it go and I'm still really upset," Anissipour said.
In the locker room, Anissipour asked her team if they were there to win or have fun.
She received a mixed response.
With a team comprised of 14-, 15- and 16-year-olds there will always be room to improve and MLCA appears to have the tools to make a run deep into the state tournament next season.
The Lions return Danielle Sandberg, who was named the MVP of the Central Washington 1B North, as well as Anna Yarbro who has given first team honors.
Anissipour plans to dedicate numerous hours in the offseason to work with her players and hopes to organize camps and summer leagues to get her girls playing against tougher competition.
She is targeting bigger schools like Warden, Quincy and Ephrata to help the Lions prepare for the rigors of postseason play.
"I think we'll be a lot better next year," Anissipour said.