Heading into its district playoff match against Antlers, Idabel girls basketball has a 21-1 record and No. 4 ranking in class 3A under head coach Kayla Denton. The Warriors went 26-3 last season and lost to Jones in the state title game.

VYPE: Who and what makes this team tick? Why?

Kayla Denton: Our point guard, Mercades Lopez, is our motor. We go as she goes.

VYPE: What makes this team special? Is there a unique aspect to this team compared to others you’ve been around?

KD: This team is special because they are all selfless. They don’t care who scores, gets individual accolades, et cetera. They want to win. They get along so well. They are close-knit.

VYPE: Who will your team look to to contribute this postseason?

KD: We will look to every individual to contribute this postseason. Mercades Lopez and Mary Carden will lead the way for our team but will have to be followed by the rest of the team in order to get where we want to go.

VYPE: Does the game plan change at all?

KD: Our game plan has always been the same. Our Defense will carry us and generate our offense. 

VYPE: Why can Idabel be a state champion this March?

KD: We are a hard matchup. An outstanding scoring point guard (Lopez) that’s shifty. She can score at all three levels. Our 6-6 center, Mary Carden, is a hard matchup by herself. The rest of the team has the power to contribute in their own individual way. We gained the experience last year of making a great run and coming up short in the finals. We are hungry, and we know exactly what we are playing for. 

VYPE: What will be your greatest obstacles?

KD: Our obstacles may be depth only having eight players suited up. Experience may play into it as well. We have one senior among the eight.