The Lady Owls basketball team is preparing to take on some of the toughest competition they’ve seen in years. With one of the most difficult schedules yet, the team is benefiting from its young varsity players to bring energy, growth, and resilience, and veterans to bring leadership and wisdom. The Owls kicked off their first two games of the season, facing 2A and 4A 2025 state champions, testing their skills against high-level competition right from the start.
Despite early game challenges, the team is embracing the opportunity to learn and grow together. The Owls have started their season with a record of 2-4, with the upcoming competition not making for easy wins. Coaches are working towards teamwork development and helping the younger players adapt to the speed and intensity of play at the varsity level. Returning players are focused on improving mentality throughout the team and demonstrating strong leadership among the entire team. With returning players back from injury and a fresh set of young legs, the Owls are ready to fight through the difficult schedule. As they adapt to this level of competition, the Owls hope to push themselves and secure a spot in the state tournament this year. After being knocked out in the regional game in 2025, the team is hungry to make a comeback this year, showing that experience isn’t the only factor in success.
One returning starter is Lylah Zoglman. A 5’10” sophomore, Lylah has improved her game tremendously as the season develops. She has shown grit, power, and speed that make her an incredibly valuable and versatile player. “This season I’m really working on my shot, and taking better shots when I can,” said Lylah. Playing every quarter with a bright smile on her face, Lylah shows pride and joy in what she does in each sport. With the difficult season ahead, Lylah is working most on her mindset. “I try to never give up with a tough schedule like this. Trusting yourself and your teammates is very important.” As the years continue, we can only assume that she will push her growth and talent to the next level and maintain her large value to the team.
The coaching staff of the GPHS basketball team is very excited for the upcoming season. With lots of potential lying at all playing levels, head coach Kody Kasselman said, “Girls basketball is different; youth can be a really good thing. An advantage is seeing them grow. It’s a give and take.” Young players with such talent help to give a fresh perspective on coaching approaches. Though the schedule is difficult, it is only helping to prepare the Owls for the tough competition they might see in postseason play. When asked about how to keep morale after hard games, Kasselman said, “Don’t look too far ahead, just keep getting better. With a difficult schedule, we want to play our best basketball, make improvements, and adjust as a team.” With a mindset like this, Garden Plain is sure to see success this year.
Jaicey Stuhlsatz, a senior starter for the Owls, is already creating that success. As a key defensive player and a talented shooter, she has made herself very valuable to the team. “This season, I’m really focused on my ball handling. We need a lot of people who can take the ball up, so it’s important that I work on it.” Not only are her mechanics impressive, but she also does a fantastic job of keeping morale high and lifting up teammates during struggles. “I try to go up to my teammates and talk to them individually after mistakes and through difficult times. I always try to lift up my younger teammates.” Jaicey has made a reputation for herself on and off the court as a level-headed role model for every athlete.
This Friday, the Lady Owls get to face off against the Cheney Cardinals at home. Cheney has a record of 3-1, but the Owls look to put a chip in their record. Playing on their home court, GPHS hopes to use the energy of the crowd to their advantage as they look to head into the break with a much-needed win. The Lady Owls have continued to show growth and resilience throughout the season, improving each game and embracing tough competition. With strong team chemistry and a focus on playing hard on both ends of the floor, the Owls are ready to continue proving they can play with any team that steps on the court. Friday night’s matchup is not just another game, but an opportunity to build confidence and momentum moving forward.
