Pitt-Johnstown women’s basketball players are looking to make this season an improved one.

After the Lady Cats finished fifth in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference last year with an overall record of 10-17, the team is looking to finish higher.

This year is the second year for Lady Cats head coach Mike Drahos.

According to senior forward Nicole Carman, the team’s mindset is better because they have conference experience and they have a clearer vision of what the coach wants.

Last year, being the first year for Drahos, players were adapting to a lot of changes.  This year, they are young, scrappy and ready for action, said junior guard Dominique Smith.

To prepare themselves for their upcoming season, the team has been working hard.

“We have all worked hard during summer and improved our individual skills so, together, the entire team will stand out,” said Carman.

Players will be showing what they can do on the court and what they can contribute.

“I believe everyone will contribute in their own way,” Smith said.

“We have been working on our team communication, defense and being faster than our opponents.”

Some improvement is likely to come from new team members.

“Compared with last year, we have more people that have height and the ability to score when the basketball and run the floor. We have some new additions to the team that can really help us out,” said Carman.

According to Carman, the team needs a leader who is vocal to win games.

“We will have a very competitive season this year. I believe the team and I are ready to make some noise,” Smith said.

“Last year we were underestimated, but still were able to finish fifth. This year, I have no doubt that we can reach the unexpected.”