MANGUM TIGERS
Coach: Brian Lively
OUTLOOK
After putting together a 15-2 record so far this season, the Mangum Academic Team continues to build momentum under head coach Brian Lively.
“Currently 15-2,” Lively said. “Finished Oklahoma Great Plains Academic Conference season at 9-2; runner-up. OSSAA portion of season: 6-0, including district and regional champions.”
Mangum’s success has been fueled by balance and defined roles throughout the lineup.
“Team is a mix of upperclassmen and lowerclassmen–two starting seniors are the leading scorers, other starters are a junior and a sophomore, with a junior and sophomores/freshmen in the mix as specialists,” Lively said. “The season is going well; players understand their roles, and everyone contributes, either in practice or in matches.”
Co-team leaders Harrison Gordon and Sierra Shrum have anchored the Tigers’ strong campaign.
“Harrison is a four-year starter. He is also a three-time conference all-star and team MVP,” Lively said. “Harrison isn’t the captain (Sierra is), but he provides leadership through his ability to score and keep a calm demeanor; nothing flusters him. Harrison is well-versed in all academic categories, but he knows that practice and research make him a better player.”
Lively praised Shrum’s leadership and presence.
“Sierra has traits similar to Harrison–calmness, a varied knowledge base,” he said. “However, she has a directness about her that helps to guide the team and keep it focused on the task at hand. Sierra is also the high school band’s drum major, so leadership positions are natural spots for her. The two of them work well together and have helped direct the team to an excellent record, giving it a solid foundation this year.”
Freshman Brodee Bailey has quickly made an impression.
“Brodee was a part of the middle school conference championship team last year, and he has brought a level of confidence with him to the high school team,” Lively said. “I don’t see any fear from him when he picks up a buzzer. Brodee should be an excellent all-around player by the time he graduates.”
Daegan Leamon-Webb, Shane Perry and Mya Rodriquez also play vital roles.
“These three players balance other interests with their academic team responsibilities: Shane and Mya are freshman cheer members and attend practice regularly,” Lively said. “Daegan starts for our team and works at the local supermarket. He does a tremendous job as a secondary scorer; depending on the category, he can also take charge and rack up game-changing points for us, especially during speed rounds.”
Additional contributors include Jayden Niles, Conner Lively, BB Bougere, Kyler Dobbins, Eldon Rankins, Cy Pineda and Hunter Gordon, giving Mangum depth as it eyes continued postseason success.
