Coach Dale Clement

(Monitor photo by John Arbter)

After describing the willingness of the players to learn and adapt to new techniques and tactics, Clement added, "and...

each one surprises me every day.”

“I believe in defense,” stated Alba-Golden coach Dale Clement.  Entering his 19th year of coaching as the new varsity girls basketball coach, there is little doubt about where Clement stands regarding his sport.

A chat with coach Clement will turn to a discussion of structure, discipline and control.

“We try to control our opponent, control the tempo and control the game,” he explained. Optimally, he works to build a lead and see it through with suffocating defense and solid fundamentals. 

Thus far, it appears to be just what the Lady Panthers need. More so, they have not only accepted their new coach, but they are changing the way in which they play. 

“We only lost two seniors from last year’s squad” Clement noted, “and we have brought up some younger players as well.”

After describing the willingness of the players to learn and adapt to new techniques and tactics, Clement added, “and each one surprises me every day.”

Clement explained that the surprises are just how much the individual players have improved in the past year. He also notes how receptive they have been to a more structured game, wherein everyone has responsibilities and is held accountable.   

With a very successful early season, the 2020-21 campaign looks bright. Watching this year’s team, it is clear that joy has returned to the hardwood. 

Half the squad is joining the basketball season from the bi-district champion volleyball team. The level of teamwork and mutual support enjoyed during the volleyball season has definitely transferred over to the court. 

On the offensive end, Clement trains his charges to “wear the opposing defense out.” Against man-to-man defenses Alba-Golden employs an offense based on movement. When faced with zone they endeavor to quickly pass the ball to the least-guarded point. 

Based on early season results, the plan of attack is working. 

Clement’s coaching experience includes Quinlan, Mildred and North Hopkins. He is exceptionally well-versed in the history and unique challenges of small-school girls basketball in East and Northeast Texas.

One of the benefits of coaching girls basketball, he explained, was the willingness of the athletes to be coached and the satisfaction of watching them succeed. As to this year’s team, he added, “We are building pretty solid relationships right now.”

The team will be tested with four teams likely to compete for the district title. 

Dressing out for the Lady Panthers are (1) Bella Crawford, (2) Cacie Lennon, (3) Kalli Wright, (5) Amanda Stewart, (10) Autumn Whitten, (12) Jade Kruse, (13) Carlee Dooley, (14) Kamrin Wright, (15) Kadence Thompson, (21) Jesse Mitchell and (42) Hannah Wright.

Alba-Golden will host two girls varsity games – Dec. 15 vs. Big Sandy and Dec. 30 vs Miller Grove -- before the start of district play on Jan. 5.