Click Here to Listen to an interview with Head Coach Ashley Martin
Click Here to Listen to an interview with freshman Madison Hough
Iowa Lakes Women's Basketball will look different this season from its 2019-20 program that went 19-11 and made it to the NJCAA Region XI semifinals. The Lakers graduated 9 sophomores with 7 of them now playing at the next level. The Lakers open the season ranked #12 in the NJCAA preseason rankings. This season there is a roster full of new faces, as well as new talent. All eight freshmen are looking forward to making an immediate impact for the program this year.
The roster includes, Jaeda Whitner, a 5'6" freshman from Mason City, IA, that will be running the offense this season, as she can score off the bounce and outside the arc and Madison Hough, a 5'6" freshman from Graettinger, IA, a hometown kid that can also score the ball and brings toughness to the team.
Rachel Puok, a 5'9" freshman from Des Moines, IA brings her athleticism and her ability to create on the floor, and Rachel Breck, a 6'0" freshman from Waseca, MN, is a post player that defends very well. Breck will continue to contribute with her toughness in the paint.
Andrea Vazquez, a 5'10" freshman from Sioux City, IA is another post presence that will help contribute to getting boards and finishing at the rim. Hailey Miranda, a 5'7" freshman from Milwaukee, WI, will be able to stretch the defense with her ability to shoot. Miranda can knock down the perimeter shot or midrange. Tianna Powell, a 5'2" freshman from Richfield, MN, brings a lot of energy, as well as her defense intensity. Kariana Lohf, a 5'6" freshman from Davenport, IA, is another player that brings energy to the team along with her toughness. Lohf is excited to get back to playing after a long semester of rehabbing her knee due to a previous injury. With a team of all new players, they have a blank canvas to build habits and establish a team identity.
Coach Ashley Martin is in her fifth season as head coach for the Lakers. When talking about the team this season coach Martin said, "We will be very young this year, but I have really enjoyed coaching these ladies. I am excited to see the girls compete and continue to improve every day."
In a time of uncertainty, the Lakers are excited to get the season underway and compete.
Coach Martin ended by saying, "So proud of this team all they have endured during Covid. We are thankful we have the opportunity to compete and play together as a team."
The Lakers will play their first game of the season Wednesday, January 20th at 5:00 p.m. in Council Bluff Iowa vs. Iowa Western.
Photo ID: Photo of team attached.
MEDIA: For more information, please contact Head Women's Basketball Coach Ashley Martin at (712) 362-7928 or the Iowa Lakes sports information office at (712) 362-7928.