After a historic campaign in 2007-2008, the Lady Flames basketball team believe they can continue the magic this season.

Last year, the Lady Flames won the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) championship game against Berry, then beat Brescia University in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) tournament to become the first Lee women’s basketball team to win a game at the national tournament level.

This year, the team hopes to continue perfection in conference play, after posting a 20-0 record last season, and retain momentum deeper into next year’s national tournament in hopes of securing a national championship.

But to achieve history will require doing so without six returning seniors from a year ago. However, the Flames have several key returnees who should solidify another deep rotation.

“We have very high expectations for this 2008-09 team. Yes, we lost seniors, but we have so many good players stepping up [who are] ready to have a great year. We have come together so well and we just keep getting better and better,” said guard Brooke McKinnon. “We will not be satisfied until we get back to Jackson and win a National Championship.”

In her first year as a Flame, McKinnon’s selfless play earned her NAIA Freshman of the Year honors. McKinnon will not only assume larger leadership roles, but will be counted on heavily throughout the season to deliver clutch performances in crucial matchups.

Allison Rader, who sat out last year recovering from two knee surgeries, will help McKinnon in the backcourt, as will defensive specialist and sole senior, Lauren Brett, who should thrive with extended minutes this season.

Complimenting McKinnon, Rader and Brett will be the trio of Kayce Addison, Katie Nelson and Jennifer Paul, who will anchor an imposing and much improved frontcourt.

This year’s team will also feature many new faces including freshmen Kally Eldridge, Angela Spann, Bethany McArthur and Kari Jo Harris. Valeryia Musina, a transfer from Long Beach State University, also hopes to be a valuable asset to the team. The new additions have the team and coaches in high spirits.

“We’re excited about the upcoming season and we’re looking to seeing how our team will develop this year. We have some exciting new players and some excellent returnees that we think gives us a completely different look than in years past,” said Coach Marty Rowe.

“Our goal is to continue to strive to be one of the best teams in the country and have a chance to compete for a national championship.”

The 7th ranked Lady Flames will face off against Milligan College on Saturday, Nov. 8 at 12 p.m.