November 13, 2018
By Sammy Clough
Coach Jackie Carson challenges the Furman women’s basketball team to “Be distinct” in everything they do on and off the court. In her ninth year as head coach, Carson has a new challenge ahead as a new stock of young talent replaces a veteran squad lost to graduation.
While this year’s Furman team will see expanded roles for many younger players, the Paladins will continue to rely on the always dependable senior Kaitlyn Duncan.
Duncan, a forward from Commerce, Ga., might not put up the flashiest numbers every night, but is truly the glue for this Furman squad. Duncan is a brilliant defender who picks her spots well, can block shots and provides steady rebounding night in and night out.
While Duncan is the only senior, Coach Carson chooses to not name any team captains.
“We don’t do captains because we expect everyone to be a leader,” says Carson.
With three major contributors last season graduating, leadership will have to come from all over the team.
One of the Paladins’ most prominent stars, who will now be thrust into leadership, is junior guard Le’Jzae Davidson. Davidson is a quick, flashy player who is always a threat from 3-point range. Carson views her as the team’s “number one competitor,” and will count on Davidson in the biggest moments.
Another Paladin that will make a huge difference this year is redshirt-sophomore Tierra Hodges.
“Her effort is monstrous,” Carson comments on Hodges, “It is contagious to the rest of the team.” Hodges, who missed all of last year with a knee injury, is a hard-working forward who relentlessly pursues rebounds and plays with tangible intensity every time she steps on the court.
Finally, Furman will also lean on redshirt-junior Taylor Petty. Petty, who was forced to sit out last season after transferring from Presbyterian College. She was named Big South Freshman of the Year for the Blue Hose, and will play her first minutes in purple this season. Petty is a 5 foot 9 inch guard with a pure shot from downtown. “She’s more than just a shooter,” adds Carson. While constantly remaining a threat behind the arc, Petty also has an uncanny ability to get to the rim and draw fouls. Although it is her first season with the Paladins, Petty is sure to provide veteran leadership for this Furman squad.
Coach Carson expects the Paladins to be magnetic this season. She prides her program on being hardworking and disciplined on the court while maintaining a reputation of role models off the court. Carson and the Paladins will lean into the support of the fans, and hope to distinguish themselves amongst the top of the Southern Conference this season.
Comments