Mackenzie Steele leads her team in scoring.
The Plant City Lady Raiders have found their groove under new head coach Danny McIntyre, and got off to a 3-1 start in the 2016 season. Leading the way is junior shooting guard Mackenzie Steele, who is averaging 18.8 points and 2.5 steals per game.
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How did you all adjust to the coaching change this year?
We had to start pretty much from scratch, and we had to learn his (McIntyre’s) new coaching style. We pretty much worked as a team.
You’ve had three coaches in three years. What’s it like, having to learn an entirely new playbook and adjust to a new person each year?
It helps me learn to adapt really fast. I just help my teammates and we use each other to build.
How is Coach McIntyre different?
He has more experience, I would say, because he’s a state champ. And he seems like he really wants to invest in us.
You’ve gotten off to a hot start, leading the team in scoring. What’s the key to playing so well so early?
Every game, I just go out there like, ‘This will be my best game.’ I just aim my highest and play.
What did you work to improve most over the past offseason?
I was constantly working on my shooting, but I worked on my ballhandling, defense, everything.
What’s your greatest strength as a player?
My shooting.
What’s your proudest moment as a Lady Raider thus far?
Being able to be on the team and represent our school.
What’s the mood around the clubhouse like this year? How far do you all think you can go?
As far as we want. As long as we work as a team, we can go wherever we want.
Is there any sport you’ve never played, but always wanted to?
I’d like to try tennis.
How long have you been playing basketball?
Since I was about 5 years old.
What first got you into it?
My dad played, my brother played and my mom played. Pretty much everyone in my family.
How far do you want to take basketball?
I want to play college ball.
Do you know where?
I’m undecided right now. Wherever I fit best at.
What’s your favorite subject in school?
I like them all.
What’s the best piece of advice someone has given you?
To put my mind to something and just give it my all, and, most likely, I will be successful.
What superpower would you want?
To be able to fly.
