Ronan adjusting to new coaching staff

RONAN — To start the season, the Ronan girls basketball team opened with its annual Black and Orange scrimmage.

The Maidens focused on working on their new system of play. With a new coaching staff this season, the players have had to adjust to a new way of doing things but have responded well and asked a lot of questions.

“They did a good job doing what the coaches were calling,” head coach Doug Fisher said. “We are working on executing plays that are called.”

The scrimmage was also an opportunity for the coaching staff to spot areas of improvement for the young team that doesn’t have a senior player.

Defensive tactics and closing out are two places of concern, Fisher said, but Ronan is picking up the new system.

“They are picking up things fast,” he said. “We are a young team but they are all basketball savvy.”

Nina Orosco played well in the paint, Fisher said.

“She did a great handling and distributing the ball to her teammates,” he said.

Alice VanGunten and recent transfer Jonna Grant each played well defensively protecting the paint, Fisher said.

“They were also willing to kick the ball out,” he said.

Ronan hosted Valley Christian on Tuesday night. Results were unavailable at press time.

The Maidens will participate in the Tip-off tournament tomorrow at 4:15 in Polson against Stevensville before taking on Corvallis at 6:45 on Saturday in Ronan.

The games will be a chance for Fisher to see what his team can do against an opponent.

“Being young, being inexperienced, we are learning quick and on the fly,” Fisher said.