HILLDALE GIRLS PREVIEW
Levi Phillips takes over the reins of the Hilldale Lady Hornet basketball program this year and has a lot to work with from a team that was 11-15 last year but made it made to the area tournament.
“We’ll have a balance of upper and lower classmen this season with a lot of depth that we look to use to our advantage,” said Phillips. “This group brings a lot to the table including athleticism and a strong work ethic.”
The three top scorers from last year return, all seniors and all VYPE Top 100 nominees, led by center Darian Diles who averaged 11 points and eight rebounds a game in 2024.
“I think Darian is one of the best centers in the state,” stated Phillips unequivocally. “She’s not exceptionally tall (5-11, Sr.), but she was the Class 4A state high jimp champ last year, so she has some extra spring in her step. She has a great attitude with a solid basketball IQ who works extremely hard.”
Grace Nail (5-10, Sr.) also returns to a forward spot where she averaged 15 points and five boards a game last season.
“Grace is a hard worker and very coachable. She puts in a ton of work during and outside of practice and is a really strong competitor,” said Phillips.
The third member of the group is Macie Mackey (5-10, Sr.) who averaged 14 points and six rebounds a game last year.
“Macie is an amazing team player who executes the game plan efficiently. She has a great work ethic and really cares about her teammates,’ Phillips noted.
Several other players return with notable playing time including Lilly Beverage (5-7, Sr.) who averaged eight points a game, Ella Roach (5-8, Sr.) who also had eight points a game, Charlee Medley (5-8, Jr.) and Natalee Cope (5-9, Jr.) both of whom averaged eight points a game in 2024. Phillips is also high on three sophomores who saw playing time last year in Lexi Campbell (5-8)- “shoots the three really well, fast and athletic,” said Phillips; Madilynn Moore (5-7) –“good defensive player” stated Phillips; and Me’Kyah Johnson (5-11)- “really good rebounder” said the new coach.
“This group is hungry and wants to do what it takes to reach success,” said Phillips.
