Gough, Martin named Athletes of the Week

Non-district play is nearing its end for Graham’s basketball teams, and both the Steers and Lady Blues have been developing greatly early this season.

Both squads participated in tournaments over last weekend, with the Steers hosting their annual Red, White & Blue Tournament and the Lady Blues playing hard in Lubbock. Then both programs earned hard-fought wins against individual opponents this past Tuesday.

For their work all season and in recent performances, Hallie Gough of the Lady Blues and Bryce Martin of the Steers have been named Athletes of the Week.

Hallie Gough, Lady Blues basketball

Gough is one of the seniors on this year’s Lady Blues squad, and she makes every moment count when she’s on the court.

As one of the team’s post players, Gough is always willing to get in the middle of things, reaching for every rebound and bodying up defenders while trying to get to the basket. 

Throughout the course of the season, though she may not start many games, Gough is seen as a player who provides a spark whenever she checks into the game. In the team’s recent tournament, she made an impact with her rebounding and physical play.

Graham faced a number of difficult opponents in that tournament, and in limited time on the court, Gough scored some baskets, hauled in both offensive and defensive rebounds and even showed a strong ability to pass the ball, as she finished one contest with three assists.

On Tuesday against Graford, in a tough, close win for the Lady Blues, Gough came into the game in the third quarter and knocked down a 3-pointer for her only points in the game. However, it was critical, especially since the team only ended up winning by that margin in the end.

She’s a vocal player who supports her teammates in the good and bad, and no matter the results on the court she leaves no doubt in her passion and effort for the game of basketball. As a teammate and one of the experienced players on this varsity roster, Gough sets an example for her team by demonstrating what it means to be a Lady Blue.

 

Bryce Martin, Steers basketball

The Steers have had their fair share of ups and downs this basketball season thus far, but one of the constants has been Martin’s play.

Just a sophomore but playing in his second year on the varsity team, Martin has elevated his game to another level from last season to this one. Along with his brother, Brodie, Martin has been working consistently to become a real force for this Steers squad.

Through the early part of the year, the Steers were somewhat shorthanded with football season extending deep into the playoffs. Martin turned into a fixture for head coach Kyle Wood’s squad, starting every game and making plays all around the court.

The sophomore has shown an improved ability in every facet of his offensive game, as he’s stepped out beyond the 3-point line to knock down shots but has also slashed and driven his way to the basket.

His basketball IQ has increased significantly, and his ability to lead on a team where he’s not one of the oldest players is impressive. Whether it’s in tandem with his brother or his other teammates, he helps lift Graham’s offense to a high level.

In Tuesday’s clutch win over Iowa Park, Martin ended the game with 9 points and four assists. That assist total was second highest on the team, but it was near the end of the game where Martin had one of, if not the biggest basket of the game.

As the Steers passed the ball around, Martin worked his way to the baseline where he got the ball and finished a tough layup through contact to tie the game. And a few seconds later, Graham earned the win.

With district play on the horizon and a few more years left in the program, Martin will continue to grow and be a force for this Graham basketball team.