FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 13, 2009

Lions add Oklahoma High School Post Player

Joplin, Mo. - Missouri Southern women's basketball head coach Maryann Mitts has announced the singing of Kalie Lucas to a national letter of intent to attend Southern and play basketball beginning in the winter of 2010.

Lucas, a 6-1 post player, is a native of Harrah, Oklahoma where she played for coach Curt Knox at Harrah High School. A four-year letterwinner and three-year starter, Lucas has been part of three-straight regional championship teams in her first three years at the school, helping the Panthers to a spot in the Oklahoma 5A State Quarterfinals each year.

Last season as a junior, Lucas ranked second in the state of Oklahoma in field goal percentage and was the 2007-08 Most Outstanding Defensive Player, as well as taking home the Most Outstanding Player award in 2008-09. She has been a first team All-Conference selection, as well as an honorable mention Big All-City pick. A team captain, Lucas is Harrah High School's career blocked shot leader.

The daughter of Terry and Retha Lucas, Kalie plans on majoring in criminal justice at Southern. Kalie's father, Terry played football at Murray State College in Oklahoma, as well as Colorado State - Pueblo.

"We are excited to add Kalie to our basketball program," said Mitts. "Our ability to sign high school seniors with Kalie's caliber will help build a strong cornerstone for our future. Kalie is a very successful student and comes from an amazing family. At 6'1, she has great size and will provide versatility and athleticism at our small forward position."