A 20-win season wasn't really expected in 2008-09 for the Paxton-Buckley-Loda Panthers. That's exactly what the team produced, finishing 21-6 overall. "This team put together a good mix of work ethic, defense, and a little bit of talent," coach Travis Duley said.

The great thing for P-B-L fans is that four starters are back from that team, along with a nice influx of newcomers that should provide a nice balance for the team. "With four returning starters, plus a few players who are developing and a few newcomers who should be able to significantly contribute, we are looking for a solid season."

Taylor Rubarts (5'8" Sr. Guard) is the team leader after being named a unanimous All-Conference selection in the Sangamon Valley. Rubarts averaged 12 points/game, 4 rebounds/game, and 4 assists/game. "Good defender with a solid drive to the basket. If Rubards develops her outside jumper a bit more, then she could be the best player in the conference," Duley said.

Kasey Sanders (6'1" Sr. Center) was an Honorable Mention All-Conference pick averaging 8 points/game and 9.5 rebounds/game as a junior. "Dominated the boards at times (255 rebounds on the season including 21 against Watseka). Looking for more back of the basket scoring from her." Receiving Special Mention in the conference was Ally Edwards (5'4" Sr. Guard). "Very under control ball handler. Rarely turns the ball over. Has a natural jump shot. When she's confident she can be an awesome threat from beyond the arc." The fourth starter back will be Brittany Orr (5'4" Sr. Guard). "Became a shut down defender throughout the season. In three games in a row she asked to guard the opposing teams top scorers who were all averaging double-digits...she held them to a combined two points."

The Panthers have a plethora of girls coming into the program that could provide a nice charge. Aubrey Luebchow (5'4" Sr. Guard). "Played great defense while giving Orr breaks throughout last season." Catie Sparks (5'4" Sr. Guard/Forward). "Battles hard on the boards and has developed a consistent mid-range jumper." Kayla Riggins (5'7" Jr. Forward). "Has the athletic ability to significantly contribute for any team." Abbey Spicer (5'11" Jr. Center). "Played basketball for the first time last season. Developed nicely throughout her sophomore season. If she can take another three or four steps forward throughout this season then she can contribute this season." Lindsey Frichtl (5'5" Jr. Guard). "A streaky shooter who when on, can outshoot most players. Must develop more consistency on the offensive end and defensively." Chelsea Hendershott (5'5" Jr. Guard). "Solid on the ball defender." Lindsey Fowler (5'4" Jr. Forward). "Hard worker who battles for the boards." Cheyeene Weber (5'3" So. Guard). "Solid young player with a good all-around game. Developed throughout the summer to show that she can play at the varsity level." Amanda Ypya (5'6" Fr. Guard). "Another solid all-around young player. Has a great drive to the basket and some of the quickest hands that I have seen on the defensive end."

With a successful season based on record, the Panthers are looking for hardware this year. "Wins and losses aren't our goal, titles are. This program is hungry for a conference and regional title. The team is working hard to provide that," Duley said. The last postseason championship at P-B-L came in the 2002-03 season, winning a Regional going (24-7).

Travis Duley enters his fourth season as head coach. He has led the Panthers to a 51-33 record in that span. The team has upped their wins in each of his three seasons (14, 16, 21). He coached one season at Mt. Pulaski (5-22).

The Panthers have won a total of five Regional titles in school history. Their first championship came in the 1991-92 season. Don Shields led P-B-L to three Regional crowns (1996-97, 1997-98, 2002-03). Shields led the team to a 100-69 record in six seasons.