New coach, King’s girls get settled

Taylor has solid core coming back

By David Pan
Enterprise Sports editor

New King’s girls basketball coach Dan Taylor has a better idea of the team he’ll be coaching this winter.

Though he was hired only last month, Taylor and his players found time to attend the Gonzaga and University of Washington team camps, which enabled him to get a first look the team.

“We didn’t have all of our players,” said Taylor, who previously coached for three years at Meadowdale High School. “Of those that went, it was a good opportunity to get some games in. I believe I have a solid core coming back.”

King’s advanced to the Class 1A state tournament and Taylor sees an opportunity to build on that success.

Three players Taylor is looking for leadership from are seniors-to-be Dionna Kirton, Makenzie Taylor (no relation) and Allison McConnaughey. Kirton and McConnaughey also are standout volleyball players.

“They seem like great individuals,” Dan Taylor said. “I know that they will do a great job of bringing great basketball to this upcoming season.”

Makenzie Taylor, who can play either point guard, off guard, or small forward, did an especially good job of taking charge at the two team camps. “Makenzie did a great job of being a leader with the girls at both camps,” Dan Taylor said. “I saw leadership on the court.”

The graduation of Kellie Cutright means the Knights will have a new point guard next season. Dan Taylor said that position is wide open.

“It’s up for grabs,” he said. “I’m looking forward to seeing who is up for the challenge and who steps up to the plate. ... Things are up in the air. Being a former point guard, there are a lot of things I’d like to see from a floor leader. I’m hoping to find that person who does things I want done on and off the court.”

Though Makenzie Taylor has experience at point guard, she also happens to be one of the Knights’ best outside shooters. Potential point guards include sophomore-to-be Karlie Storkson and a pair of incoming freshmen - Ellie Rasmussen and Samiesha Fairley.

King’s will spend the rest of the month with conditioning sessions along with some open gyms. Dan Taylor then plans to host a team camp next week. The first-year coach’s goals were to get to know his players a little better, which he’s accomplished.

“Being a new coach, it’s hard to go from off-season to coaching (during the regular season) without building a relationship,” Dan Taylor said.

“It’s important to do that. ... I feel we have a great group of girls. I’m very optimistic about the upcoming season. Our leadership is just awesome. I’m just so honored and privileged to be a part of the King’s athletic program.”