Putnam City West’s girls basketball team has seen highs and lows over the last two seasons.

After a 6A state title in 2023, a mass exodus of players followed when former West coach Ja’Ron Jefferson left. That led to a 1-21 record last season, with a small roster of unexperienced players.

The Patriots will again be young but second-year head coach Kennedi Simien has reasons to optimistic.

“I’m really excited about this season because we have a core group of girls who have been fully committed to the process since day one,” Simien said via a preseason questionnaire. “We’re a young team with tremendous potential and plenty of room for growth.”

Returning is senior Kimyia Bullard. The 5’5″ point guard was West’s main scoring threat a season ago and was on the squad during the state title season.

Sophomore guards Amanda Quiroz Fuentes and Carolina Quiroz Fuentes, both at 5’5″, will also return. West will also have sophomore guard Alazia Gutierrez (5’5″) and sophomore forward Tiarnee Johnson (6’0′).

Newcomers include sophomore shooting guard Victoria Martinez (5’6″) and junior shooting guard Shania White (5’5″).

The Patriots also have two 5’7″ freshmen in Franny Vasquez (combo guard) and Cherish Wright (shooting guard).

“Our freshmen are still adjusting to the pace and physicality of high school basketball, but they’ll play key roles on varsity and help take some pressure off senior guard Kimyia Bullard.

“If we can tighten up our discipline and stay focused, I believe we’ll be able to compete in a lot of games this year.”

West will play in the Yukon Festival, Community Christian School Tournament and the Enid New Year’s Classic.

The Patriots are in a district with Lawton Eisenhower (11-13), Edmond Memorial (24-5), Mustang (25-6), Choctaw (14-11), Westmoore (14-11), Norman North (16-10) and Putnam City (8-14).

UP NEXT

West opens the season Thursday (Nov. 20) against Yukon at the Yukon Festival. Yukon was 12-13 last season.

Tip off is at 6 p.m.

On Friday, the Patriots face Piedmont at 4 p.m.