LELAND — Patansy Miller-Hampton has been coaching the Leland girls basketball team since 2011. She has always loved the challenge of helping her players reach their potential.
“If I could coach all day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., I would never miss a day,” she said. “I enjoy coaching and watching them grow and develop into young ladies. Basketball is the tool that helps them become what they are capable of becoming.”
Coach Miller-Hampton sees a lot of potential in her team this year. Leland begins its season on Friday, Nov. 12 with a home game against Shaw.
“This is a program that when I first took over the norm was almost not to win any games. We had to change the mindset of starting to win. Now, we expect to win. I know that we are going to have targets on our back this year from teams who want to beat Leland. We accept that and we are up to the challenge.”
Under Coach Hampton-Miller, the Cubs have reached the state semifinals twice and have also claimed five district titles.
This year’s Lady Cubs team is is filled with hustle.
Senior J.K. Beale said its her job to lead by example.
“My responsibility for this team is to make sure we always hustle and communicate,” Beale said.
Leland played just two games last season because of COVID-19, but this doesn’t mean the Cubs will be anyone’s pushover.
“I think we are starting over but we are at a good place,” Coach Hampton-Miller said. “The young ladies are willing to work for it. They are not just going to sit back and let it come to them.” Missing last year makes them appreciate it more, and that is to our disadvantage.”
Junior guard Nykeria Perry, along with Beale, are two veteran players who are expected to have key leadership roles on the Lady Cubs this season. The two Perry see quite a lot of potential in themselves and her teammates.
“I think, if we work together as a team, we can win some games. We also need to believe in ourselves. We have a great coach in Coach Miller. She is a good person, and she is tough. With her leading us, we can accomplish a lot.”
