Kasidy Russell, McLean basketball, So.
On the court: Russell was a key cog in getting the McLean Lady Tigers to the third round of the Class 1A playoffs. Russell led McLean to an undefeated District 1-1A season and was recently named the District 1-1A MVP. The sharpshooting sophomore guard had a tremendous opening two games of the playoffs scoring 11 points with nine rebounds in a win over White Deer, then followed that effort up scoring 15 points with three assists, two boards and a steal to lift McLean past Happy in the area round 33-30. On the season, Russell has had a stellar season scoring 11 points a game, pulling down a total of 108 rebounds adding 97 steals.
Coach Sandi Johnson: “Kasidy is a leader on and off the court. She walks with integrity and has so much respect for others. She has been a leader this year and she’s been very coachable which has been one of the top reasons the team has adapted and responded so well to a new culture. What I love the most as a coach is that Kasidy is at my front door every morning without fail picking up the keys to the gym to go shoot even after late night road trips. She is dedicated and is adapting to her role of being the point guard as well as being a dominant shooter. She’s just a great young person and unselfish and we’re lucky to have her.”
Russell: “First off, I just want to thank my teammates. I wouldn’t be able to get a shot off or knock down shots without my team and the way they move the ball that helps get me open. This has just been a really enjoyable season and I feel like I’ve been able to really improve. Coach Johnson has been very welcoming, and it’s helped the team become very close. I just want to continue to improve and I’m glad I have the support I do to be able to get better.”
About Russell
Favorite band or musician: Maverick City
Favorite social media program: TikTok
Favorite athlete: Brendan Hausen
Bet you didn’t know: She plays the guitar
Parents: Charley and Jessica Russell