NIXA — One of southwest Missouri’s premier young players, 2020 guard Emily Edwards is gearing up for her sophomore season at Nixa.

A 5’9 point guard, Edwards is coming off a strong offseason competing for the Mo Valley Magic. She is a pass-first point guard who enjoys getting her teammates open looks, but can also step up and put the ball in the basket herself when needed.

She says the experience of competing for Magic this offseason has helped prepare her for the varsity and the COC.

“I played a lot of basketball,” Edwards says. “I went to a lot of tournaments and I was in the gym a lot. Not just playing games, but I really tried to step up my gym time and work on my game.”

Edwards says former Missouri State Bear Rob Yanders has had a big impact on her basketball career to date.

“(He) has pushed me a lot,” Edwards said. “He wants me to get better. He tries to show me new things and ways to do things easier. I’ve been listening, so hopefully it pays off.”

Expectations are high this season for a talented Nixa team. The Eagles have several talented players returning to the varsity line-up and have a host of youngsters ready for a breakout season.

“I am looking forward to playing with my team,” Edwards said. “I think once we get out there to play, we can get some wins and make a run at districts. It’s going to take a lot of work. We have the people that can make it happen, I think.  A lot of people are hoping to improve and set new goals.”

A fan of former Missouri State Lady Bear Jackie Stiles, Edwards says she is continuing to work on various aspects of her game, at both ends of the court.

“I’m working on defense — that’s an always,” she said. “I also am working on extending my range and my pull up jumpers around the middle. I’m also working on getting to the rim and finishing for easy shots.”