[ HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS' BASKETBALL ]
Kahuku’s ultimate
goal is state titleCoach Wendy Anae says the Red Raiders
must first get through a tough OIA schedule
Kahuku's hustle, quickness, togetherness and rebounding left a lasting impression after last year's slim loss to Punahou in the state girls basketball championship game.
Many of the same Red Raiders are back to try to clear that one last hurdle this year.
But second-year coach Wendy Anae is guarding against looking too far ahead.
"We're progressing OK, but there's still stuff to work on," Anae said. "We've got many adjustments to make on offense and defense in order to improve."
Right after that Punahou game, post Latoya Wily said she wouldn't be satisfied until the team won the title.
It's a long road and it goes right through the packed Oahu Interscholastic Association East Division.
"I've heard great things about Kalaheo; I expect Kaiser and Farrington to be tough as well," Anae said.
McKinley is another team that looks to be in the East mix.
If successful in the OIA, the road to the title would then include some of the top teams elsewhere in the state, including Punahou, Kamehameha and Konawaena.
"Punahou is consistently good. (Coach) Mike (Taylor) always has good teams that are quick and aggressive," Anae said.
Wily is one of Kahuku's top returnees, along with her sister, Artevia Wily, and Mona Ale, Aisha Ale and Camilla Ah-Hoy.
Sisters Anny and Tina Soliai are also expected to contribute.
"Latoya's working hard and providing us with good leadership," Anae said. "We've got good team unity and a good work ethic and the girls are motivated."
The Red Raiders open the regular season with a tough one right away -- next Tuesday at home against Farrington.
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