Beech Tree News Network

Coach: Lexie Belcher

Region: 3

District: 12

Nickname: Lady Bears

Following a competitive 2024–25 campaign, the Butler County Lady Bears enter the 2025–26 season with momentum, maturity, and a roster built for a deep postseason run. Under the leadership of Coach Lexie Belcher, the program returns its core playmakers while welcoming a promising group of underclassmen who are expected to strengthen the Lady Bears’ depth from day one.

Returning Leaders

Ava Wilson – #24, Jr., PF

Fresh off a standout sophomore season, Wilson returns as one of Region 3’s most dominant interior players. After averaging 16.8 PPG and 10.6 RPG, she remains the centerpiece of the Lady Bears’ offense and a commanding defensive presence. Her continued development could elevate Butler County into district title contention.

Ann Marie Skaggs – #3, Sr., SF

Skaggs enters her senior year as a steady, physical two-way wing. With 12.7 PPG and 6.6 RPG last season, she brings toughness, poise, and high basketball IQ. Expect her to be a focal point late in games and a vital rebounder on both ends of the floor.

Tinslea Belcher – #10, Sr., SG

A reliable shooter and experienced guard, Belcher added 17 made threes last season and has shown steady growth each year. As a senior, she is expected to assert herself more aggressively on offense while continuing to provide perimeter defense and leadership.

Karrington Hunt – #12, Sr., PG

The veteran point guard will once again run the show for Butler County. Hunt averaged 6.5 PPG and 4.0 RPG, providing tempo control, steady decision-making, and dependable leadership. Her

ability to manage pace and distribute efficiently is crucial to the Lady Bears’ success.

Isabella Easley (#23) is a strong senior post player whose physicality and inside presence bring valuable

depth and stability to the position.

Emerging Talent

Carley Cardwell – #5, So., SF

Cardwell is poised for a breakout season. After posting 9.1 PPG and 4.7 RPG as a freshman, she returns stronger, more confident, and more versatile. Cardwell has legitimate potential to become Butler County’s second or third scoring option, and she enters the year as the team’s top Breakout Player Watch.

Raleigh Skaggs – #20, Jr., SG

While limited in minutes last season, Skaggs offers valuable perimeter shooting and length on the wing. With the graduation of key contributors approaching, this is a prime opportunity for her to carve out a larger role and strengthen the backcourt rotation.

Underclassmen to Watch

A wave of fresh talent provides energy and much-needed depth:

Destin Wester – #14, Fr., PG

Quick, confident, and skilled—expected to compete for immediate backcourt minutes.

Brielle Belcher – #15, 8th, PG

A young playmaker with advanced court vision; high upside for the program’s future.

Harper Hack – #33, 8th, PF

Physical and versatile in the frontcourt; provides rebounding and interior presence.

Emmalin Mode – #43, 8th, SF

Long, athletic wing with improving offensive tools and defensive potential.

 
Raylynn Nicewinter – #21, Fr., C

A strong, developing post player who adds size behind Wilson and Skaggs.

These additions form the foundation of the Lady Bears’ long-term depth while offering Coach Belcher more lineup flexibility this season.

Team Identity

Butler County’s path to success in 2025–26 will be built around:

 -A dominant interior anchor in Ava Wilson

 -A high-IQ, battle-tested senior class

 -A promising sophomore contributor in Cardwell

 -A young but talented bench capable of giving quality minutes

-To reach their full potential, the Lady Bears will focus on:

 -Improved outside shooting consistency

-Higher free-throw efficiency

 -Developing bench reliability, especially among freshmen and eighth-graders

If these areas progress, Butler County should firmly position itself among the top contenders in

District 12 and remain competitive in Region 3.

2025–26 Outlook & Projections

With experience at the top of the roster and a growing talent pipeline, the Lady Bears are well-aligned for a successful season.

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Story by Mark Allen, for Beech Tree News