After finishing last season with a 12-15 record, the Altus Bulldogs girls basketball team enters the new season with optimism and determination under first-year head coach Jared Black. With a core group of experienced players returning, the Bulldogs are poised to be competitive in a very challenging district and are looking forward to building chemistry and consistency on both ends of the court.

Key returners Madi Whittaker, Hayden Castillo-Dickerson, Hadley Wallace, and Kyerra Osborn provide the team with leadership, experience, and versatility. Castillo-Dickerson, entering her junior season, is a standout athlete who competes year-round. In addition to basketball, she plays volleyball and runs track, while also competing for Team OK in the summer. Her combination of athleticism, skill, and work ethic makes her a player who can impact the game in multiple ways and serve as a leader on and off the court.

Wallace, who earned a starting spot as a freshman, is known for her relentless effort and commitment to improvement. She continues to develop her skills and contribute consistently, and the coaching staff expects her growth to play a key role in the Bulldogs’ success this season. Whittaker and Osborn also bring experience and poise to the lineup, helping guide the younger players and anchoring the team’s efforts on both offense and defense.

While the core of the team provides stability, the Bulldogs are also counting on contributions from incoming freshmen to provide depth and energy. Coach Black emphasizes teamwork, defensive intensity, and smart decision-making as the foundation for success, and the team has embraced this approach throughout the offseason.

Altus is expected to be highly competitive in a district loaded with talent. The blend of returning experience, young contributors, and a coaching staff committed to player development sets the stage for a season filled with growth, resilience, and hard-fought victories.

The upcoming season is not only about wins and losses but also about building a cohesive team identity and fostering the development of each player. With dedication, focus, and a relentless work ethic, the Altus Bulldogs girls’ basketball team is ready to challenge their opponents and make this a memorable year.