***PHOTO CREDIT: Queen Photography***
CATOOSA LADY INDIANS
Coach: KONNER JOHNSTON
2024-25: 5-22
The Catoosa Lady Indians are entering the 2025 season with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. After a rebuilding year that ended with a 5-22 record, head coach Konner Johnston is confident his team is ready to take a major step forward in his second year at the helm. With a mix of experienced upperclassmen and emerging young talent, the Lady Indians are focused on proving they can compete with anyone in their district.
“We have a lot to prove this season,” Coach Johnston said. “This is year two of learning a new system, and we’re not as young as we’ve been in the past. The girls have worked incredibly hard this offseason, and they’ve set high expectations for themselves. I think we’re going to surprise some teams this year.”
Leading the charge is senior shooting guard Jacquelyn Cornwell (5-5, Sr.), who has already committed to continue her career at Bethel College after receiving multiple NAIA scholarship offers across the region. Cornwell is coming off a breakout season in which she averaged 6.5 points, 2.3 assists, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. This year, she transitions from point guard to shooting guard, allowing her to focus more on scoring and less on facilitating, a move that could unlock another level of her offensive game.
Another key player to watch is sophomore power forward Olivia Bowen (6-0, So.), a standout who led the team in scoring, rebounds, and blocks as a freshman. With her size, skill, and basketball IQ, Bowen is poised for a breakout year that could attract the attention of college recruiters. “Olivia has the most potential out of anyone I’ve ever coached,” Johnston said. “She’s special.”
Supporting them is a strong group of juniors, including Hadley McGrew (5-7, Jr.), Kloie Bristol (5-6, Jr.), Lucy Martinez (5-5, Jr.), and Bella Vidana (5-6, Jr.), along with promising sophomore Brooklyn Johnson (5-9, So.). Together, they give the Lady Indians a deeper, more experienced rotation that can push the tempo and compete on both ends of the floor.
As the Lady Indians prepare for the season ahead, there’s a clear sense of optimism in the gym. With veteran leadership, rising talent, and a hunger to prove themselves, Catoosa looks ready to turn heads and make this season one to remember.
