As might be expected, a lot of impressive individual stats emerged following the winningest season in the history of the Liberty Christian girls basketball program.

When asked to pick a catalyst that drove the team’s success, Coach Butch Clark struggled to identify just one player who was the engine.

“That’s what’s special about this team,” said Clark. “They were an amazing group as far as their ability to share. They did a good job on offense and defense with their balance and played well together as a team.”

That selflessness and understanding of everyone’s unique contributions led the Eagles to a 29-2 finish that culminated with a defeat during the state championship of the Missouri Christian School Athletic Association Tournament.

Clark says defense was a strength for the Eagles this year, as their only other loss was to public school team Houston during the Bourbon Tournament.

“The two games we lost wasn’t because of our defense,” said Clark. “It was our inability to protect the basketball. We turned the ball over at crucial times that led to easy buckets.”

But Clark doesn’t mind the setback in the regular season tournament, as it was a milestone for Liberty Christian to even lock several public schools into their schedule. It has long been a goal of Clark’s to improve the rigor of the schedule by matching up against public programs. Given the opportunity this year, the Eagles defeated Wright City and also knocked out top-seeded Crocker in the Bourbon Tournament.

“We always want to play better competition,” said Clark. “It’s more fun to be in those games, even if you’re not always going to win. It prepares us for the postseason as well.”

While balance was pivotal, the Eagles certainly had some key figures that led the way.

Sophomore Andrea Mueller guided Liberty Christian with 14.4 points and seven rebounds per game.

“There were a lot of nights she carried us offensively but also willing to give the basketball up to her teammates,” said Clark, whose team dressed just eight players.

Adison Roden was a force inside with 10.5 points and 6.5 boards per outing.

Anna Meyer averaged 8.5 points and 4.1 rebounds per contest.

“There were multiple games where all eight of them scored and had assists,” said Clark. “I can’t remember having too many teams having done that in the past.”

While Liberty Christian has had more successful seasons in terms of winning the state tournament, this was perhaps the most dominant campaign to date.

“I told the kids not to judge the season by the way it ended,” said Clark. “We had five kids out there most nights who could defend and pick each other up. Their balance and consistency were two things that served them well.”

Clark hopes the impressive showing will open the door to more public schools being willing to include Liberty Christian on their schedules.

The Eagles are already slated to play a nonconference game at Clopton during the 2020-21 season.