Donettes jamboree host big night of hoops

The 2023-24 basketball season kicks off in a few weeks, and the Doniphan Donettes provided a pit-stop for other teams to compete.

The Donnettes hosted their basketball jamboree on Tuesday, where they faced off against West Plains, Alton and Poplar Bluff in multiple two-quarter games for a quick tuneup right before the season.

Athletic Director and head coach for the Donettes, Adam Epps said the purpose of the jamboree is to give teams the chance to play in a controlled environment where they can learn and iron out the kinks before tipoff.

“It feels good to be back on the court,” Epps said. “This jamboree allows us all the chance to play against someone other than your teammates before everything switches into high gear. It's a good way to get the nerves out and gives us a chance to work on things in full motion. So far, I’ve really liked our effort and intensity going up against a really good team like West Plains.”

Epps said their main focus was to work on defense and polish their execution to the basket. The Donetts finished last season as the Class 4 District 1 champions and Epps is locked in and ready to go further this season.

While the Donetts prepare to defend their district title, the Poplar Bluff Lady Mules will gear up for the season with a new head coach.

Head coach Soley Dugas took over for the Lady Mules during the summer, and the jamboree was the first her new team had seen any action.

“I'm just thankful that we were able to get something early,” Dugas said. “We're still building, so not many of our girls have varsity experience. Right now, it’s just about learning. I just ask the girls to go out and play hard, and the rest will come.”

Dugas said this year will also be about learning from her position as well. She will try to use the same approach with coaching and hold them accountable while encouraging them.

“I'm not too worried,” she said. “One thing about this group of girls is they're listening. They’ve been receptive to the coaching, but I know it'll take a while before it translates into the game. I can tell that they're willing to work for it, so I'm appreciative of that.”