SMS Lady Tigers aim high this season

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Swainsboro Middle School’s head basketball coach, Ikera Devouil (Coach D), after her team competed in their first weekend tournament at Langston Chapel Middle in Statesboro, Georgia. Coach D shared her thoughts on the tournament and her aspirations for the season ahead.

“My goals for the team this season focus on both individual and collective growth,” Coach D explained. “I want each player to improve personally and develop a strong desire to get better. Progress isn’t just about what we do during practice hours; it’s about putting in the work when no one is watching.” She emphasized that her broader vision is for the team to recognize their potential and show their skills and confidence on the court. “This group is special because they haven’t realized just how great they can be if they truly apply themselves. Above all, I want them to understand that winning comes from teamwork, not from relying on just one player.”

The team’s performance at the Langston Chapel Middle tournament was nothing short of impressive. They defeated Midway Girls 30-1 on Thursday and Langston Chapel 28-6 on Friday, earning their spot in the championship game. Saturday’s championship clash against Snelson-Golden was a real test of character and resilience. Trailing by four points at halftime, the girls dug deep and, through determination and teamwork, made a remarkable comeback to win 32-28. A memorable highlight was seeing the players push past their limits, especially point guard McKinley Walden, who led her teammates with exceptional leadership and unselfish play.

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Motivating players, according to Coach D, is all about building trust and helping them see the power of hard work. “I encourage them to set goals, celebrate their progress, and take ownership of their growth. Progress demands consistent effort, and I strive to instill a mindset where improvement happens on and off the court.” Her coaching philosophy is clear: success is about the team, not the individual.

Building confidence is a key part of her approach. “Preparation and persistence are essential,” Coach D shared. “We set goals that push them out of their comfort zones, whether that means bouncing back from a mistake in a game or mastering a new skill in practice. Challenges are opportunities to grow, and I remind them to apply these lessons to life beyond basketball.”

The Langston Chapel tournament was a valuable experience for the team, helping them gain game-time confidence and develop their skills and chemistry. “These moments are crucial building blocks,” Coach D said. “They prepare us not just for a single game but for the entire season ahead.”

Make sure you go out and support these Lady Tigers at Swainsboro Middle School throughout their season! The rest of the season schedule can be found on the Swainsboro Middle School website as well as the Swainsboro Middle School Facebook page.