NEW ROSTER ADDITIONS SPARK LADY RAIDERS BEST OFFENSIVE PERFORMANCE OF SEASON

Roane State women's basketball continues to show growth as the season progresses, with head coach Roger Parker encouraged by the way his young roster is beginning to settle into defined roles and compete more consistently.

Parker said the Lady Raiders are starting to see the pieces come together, particularly in their most recent performance against Columbia State. Roane State relied on balanced scoring, improved execution and extended contributions from its core group in the 57-56 loss to the Lady Chargers.

Freshman Kyree Patrick delivered one of her strongest all-around performances of the season, playing all 40 minutes and leading the Lady Raiders with 16 points. The Northport, Alabama native shot 5-for-7 from the field, including a perfect 2-for-2 effort from 3-point range, and went 4-for-4 at the free-throw line. Patrick also pulled down a team-high nine rebounds, providing steady leadership on both ends of the floor.

Sophomore Jaylynn Bullock finished with 14 points in her first career start, providing an early spark for the Lady Raiders. Parker said Bullock's performance reflected the team's emphasis on player development and readiness, as several players continue to take on expanded responsibilities.

Le'Quioya Love remained a consistent presence in the paint, recording 11 points and eight rebounds in 22 minutes. Love went 4-of-8 from the field and added three free throws, helping Roane State stay competitive on the glass and generate second-chance opportunities.

Amiyah Thompson added six points on a perfect shooting night and grabbed six defensive rebounds, while Janae Aponte connected on two 3-pointers to finish with six points of her own. Alyvia Bitterly chipped in three points off the bench, and Zhi McWilliams provided valuable minutes as the Lady Raiders worked through their rotation.

Parker said the team's growth has been driven by increased communication, improved shot selection and a better understanding of how individual roles fit within the system.

"With a young group, it's about getting them to trust each other and make the right reads," Parker said. "We're seeing that more consistently now. The execution still has to improve, but the effort and mindset are where they need to be."

As the season moves forward, Parker believes the experience gained in these early games will pay dividends. With several freshmen logging heavy minutes, the Lady Raiders are focused on continued improvement and building toward their best basketball later in the year.

"We're laying a foundation," Parker said. "If we keep competing and learning the right way, the results will come."