Kellci Baker | Goodday Mineral Wells | 12/11/2020 |CCS Sports
In admirable fashion, the CCS Lady Warriors took yet another W last night, upholding their perfect 9-0 record, including taking the championship at the recent CCS Holiday Tournament. This win came facing the Burton Adventist Academy Angels. In the 52-38 win over BAA, all 12 Lady Warriors suited up saw time on the court. Their attack was led by seniors Elaina Buchanan and Hena Spahic with 14 and 13 points, respectively, but 8 of the 12 Lady Warriors scored, showing just how versatile and well-rounded this team is. Newcomer Jersey Davila racked up some points, putting in 9 of her own. The Burton Angels didn’t just lay down and give the win to CCS though, they were a physical team that put up a fight all the way until the final buzzer, even outscoring the home team in the 4th quarter, but the lead the Warriors took at the beginning was too much for the Angels to overtake.
The win was not the only celebration for the ladies of CCS; the 2 aforementioned points leaders, Buchanan and Spahic, were recognized for their efforts during their time at CCS. They have both reached the “1000 club” in their respected stat lines-Hena Spahic reaching 1000 points and Elaina Buchanan reaching 1000 rebounds.
Hena Spahic, originally from Zenica, Bosnia, has been wowing the CCS fans for the past two years, showcasing her talent and grit, even after breaking her ankle last season and returning from the injury early and helping launch the Lady Warriors to the state championship. Hena is a scoring threat from all areas of the floor. Coaches Kayla Buchanan and Lisa Ballenger said this about Hena coming in to the Thursday nights game, “At the start of the game, Hena had 1112 points averaging 25.1 points per game.” She can drain 3 pointers from all spots on the floor, drive the lane, or pull up and shoot midrange. So it was no surprise when she scored her 1000th point on December 1st, in the game against Temple Christian. She isn’t just a threat to score, according to Coach Buchanan she is also averaging 4.9 assists per game, 4.8 steals, and 4.6 rebounds. Hena is poised to lead the team, now familiar with the high-intensity play expected from her and the rest of the girls by Coach Kayla Buchanan and she has not disappointed.
Elaina Buchanan, also known by many as “Lani,” is the senior post with all the hustle and determination. She has some tenure here at CCS and has earned her leadership role throughout the last few seasons, also a huge part of that Lady Warriors team that played for the state championship last year. She is intense and paired with her size and strength, she causes a high level of intimidation when she steps on the floor. She is a strong, post-up player who isn’t afraid to make contact with her opponent. This played a large part in her rebounding stats and earning her 1000 rebounds in the December 1st game against Temple Christian. She averages 14.6 rebounds a game, but equally as impressive she also averages 7.3 steals and 10 points per game. But the love for the game she plays with has also earned her respect from her own team. She is a leader on and off the court, helping raise those players who will come after she graduates. Even during practice, she displays the same game-like intensity, making her defenders work as hard as she is.
Coaches bragged on these two young ladies saying, ” These two players are extremely hard workers and complement each other and their teammates. This year’s team mantra is Proverbs 3:6, which states, “In all ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” That’s why we cry out “Warriors on 3, Family on 6.” These two lead our family and are creating a legacy for the underclassmen. They coach them up and guide them every step of the way.” Coach Buchanan also added The love and passion these two have brought tears to my eyes. This is a great accomplishment for both! I am so proud.”
The CCS Lady Warriors have their eyes set on returning to the state championship game in a few short months but this time, finishing with the title. With some great additions to this year’s team and players like Lani and Hena, who know what it takes to not only return to that stage but to win, keep an eye on these CCS ballers to fight to the finish and make a name for themselves and make Mineral Wells proud!
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Sports Journalist | Mineral Wells native and community-driven. An MWHS graduate with years of experience having served on the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Committee, Tourism Committee, Historic Downtown Association, and more. Kellci is heavily involved in Highridge Church of Mineral Wells and volunteers within the First Impressions and Students Ministries. Her love for sports comes from being a student-athlete (volleyball, basketball, track, and field) as a child growing up in Mineral Wells.
