GIRLS BASKETBALL: Walker takes over at Thomas Jefferson; Cavaliers return five starters 

Traci Walker is now in charge of the Thomas Jefferson girls basketball program. 

Walker was previously an assistant under Dan Rogers, but has taken over the reins of the program for the 2021-22 season. 

‘I’m pleased to be named the head coach this season,” Walker told SoMo Sports. “I believe that with my previous experience with the girls we will be a team to look out for.” 

The Cavaliers have five returning starters this season. 

Senior guard Alivia Beard has been a starter since her freshman year. Beard is a Western Illinois softball recruit who shot 30 percent from the field, 50 percent from the foul line and averaged 1.4 steals per game as a junior. 

Juniors Nico Carlson and Tannah Grigg and sophomores Sarah Mueller and Gabby Hiebert also return with starting experience.

Carlson and Grigg are forwards, while Mueller and Hiebert are guards. Although she’s a point guard, Hiebert averaged four rebounds and two blocked shots per game last season. 

“We have strong returners this year,” Walker said. “They are all leaders and will be able to help our younger players. We are quick and physical, as well.” 

Beard and JoJo Nelson are the team’s lone seniors. 

Top newcomers are freshmen Lannah Grigg (5-11 forward) and Presley Long (guard). Walker expects both players to see significant playing time at the varsity level. 

“We are still looking at a fairly young team, so our expectations are to do better than last year,” Walker said. “We will focus on executing plays, starting and finishing strong as a team and having fun. The biggest question mark is how we’ll mesh with the newer and younger players joining the team.” 

The Cavaliers managed just one win last season, and improving the team’s record is a major goal this year. 

“The keys to a successful season will be executing plays under pressure, taking our game shots and rebounding,” Walker said. 

Thomas Jefferson hosts Bronaugh at 6 p.m. on Nov. 23.