Norman Tigers Basketball – presented by Landers Auto

BOYS

Rodney Dindy

16-17 Record: 11-12

In his second season as head coach, Rodney Dindy is excited to see what this team can accomplish as they return VYPE Top 100 selectee Jake Ogle (6-7, Sr.) to the starting lineup.

“We are looking forward to the 2017-18 season with a strong senior class. It should be an exciting year for this Norman High School team,” said coach Dindy.

Last season Ogle averaged 10 points and 4.0 rebounds per contest and is looking for more this season. Ogle will have some help in fellow seniors Bryce Mooreland (6-0) and Shane Didiuk (6-5). Mooreland averaged 7.0 points and 5.0 assists per game, while Didiuk accounted for 10 points and 3.0 rebounds. Norman also picked up a transfer player in Jakaree Holmes (6-1, Sr.) who is expected to start at one of the guard spots. Kolby Gipson (6-4, Jr.) brings excellent size and experience to the floor and look for Ben Emmert (6-4, So.) is developing into a quality player coach DIndy will count on for good minutes this season. Other players to watch this season include Dayten Holman (6-5, So.) and Montrey Cobb (6-1, Sr.). Mark Williams (6-4, Sr.) and Jonah Paden (6-4, So.) add depth to the roster and give coach Dindy some options off the bench.

Assistant coaches this season include Kermit Holmes, Tyler Schardt and Josh Gibbs.

GIRLS

Michael Neal

16-17 Record: 17-9

In his fourth season as head coach Michael Neal has taken the Lady Tigers and turned things around winning 17 games last year. But he’s quick to give his assistant coaches credit for their work with the team. Frankie Parks, Morgan Coale and Megan Schieber are certainly a big part of the overall success of the program.

Leading the way on the court is Turner Mattingly (5-9, Jr.) at guard. Mattingly averaged 10 points, 3.0 assists and 3.0 rebounds last year. She has the most experience on the court for the Lady Tigers and will play a combo type guard spot for coach Neal. Kelbie Washington (5-7, Fr.) will start at the point this season. She is an excellent defender and runs tempo on offense. Washington is a four-sport star at Norman playing basketball, volleyball, track and soccer. Kayla Albright (5-7, Sr.) at guard has an excellent outside shot. Albright transferred from Midwest City. Haley Hurst (5-11, Sr.) is a returning forward and a team captain. Nyah Henderson (5-7, Jr.) plays forward, but is really more of a guard. She brings high energy and rebounds well for her size. Junior guard Christina Shadid (5-7) is a shooter off the bench who can spark the offense. Alex Blackwell (6-0, Sr.) is known for her rebounding and interior defense. Gabbi Thomason (5-5, So.) plays hard and looks for the open shot. Kamryn Defreeze (5-8, Sr.) and Taj Cox (5-7, Sr.) are known for their defense and rebounding. Samone Webber (5-8, Jr.) is an aggressive forward, while Faith Richards (5-7, Jr.) can defend the perimeter. Expect the Lady Tigers to have another solid season and if a few bounces go their way, maybe a trip to the state tournament.

The statewide basketball issue is chalk full of class breakdowns, All-VYPE preseason honors and the ever-important VYPE Top 100. This year’s edition of the Basketball Preview will have team capsules and breakdowns as well. They are now available online for advance-copy purchase by clicking the cover above. They will also be available in selected retailers around the state.

Click the cover above to order and we will put in the mail today!