Perfect week for Lady Pioneers
The Lady Pioneers keep finding ways to win, no matter who is available.
Warren County wrapped up another impressive week of summer action at MTSU by going 4-0 in varsity competition, defeating Macon County and DAR Patriots out of Alabama on Wednesday before returning Thursday to earn perhaps its most impressive victory of the summer with a win over Cumberland County.
The undefeated week continued a strong offseason stretch for a Lady Pioneer team that appears intent on building off last winter's success. Warren County posted a winning season in 2025-26 and has spent the summer showing it may be capable of taking another step forward.
What's made the early success even more impressive is the number of injuries the team has been forced to navigate.
The Lady Pioneers suffered a major blow in the opening game of summer camp two weeks ago when rising junior Presley Winfree, a valuable role player last season, suffered a torn ACL that will sideline her for the upcoming year. Rising sophomore Reese Reinitz also injured her knee that same day, though there remains hope she could return by the start of the regular season.
Another sophomore, Maelee Turner, continues working her way back after knee issues limited her throughout her freshman season.
The injury bug wasn't finished.
During Week 2, senior Harmoni Kennerly battled knee problems of her own, while freshman point guard Kinsley Simpson had to be held out after a collision with an opponent. Both have been contributors during the summer, with Simpson already earning opportunities in the starting lineup and Kennerly once again thriving in her familiar role as an energy-producing reserve.
Despite the setbacks, Warren County's depth has continued to shine.
Brynlee Chisam has looked every bit like a breakout candidate heading into her junior season. Already coming off an all-district sophomore campaign, Chisam has played with increased confidence and aggression while emerging as one of the team's leaders on both ends of the floor.
Veterans Addison Steakley and Aubrey Oleksik have also provided stability. The rising seniors have logged major minutes under coach Kyle Turnham over the last two seasons and have shown a comfort level in the system that has helped steady the group throughout the summer. Oleksik briefly dealt with a lower-leg injury during the first week of camp but has not missed significant time.
Cortlyn Porter, another returning starter, also continues to show a growing comfort in the style of play that has helped the Lady Pioneer win 7-of-8 games at MTSU in varsity matchups over two weeks of play.
Transfer Katie Bechtel has added another dimension to the lineup as well. The senior, and former Boyd standout, has consistently stretched defenses with her perimeter shooting and provided the offensive spark many expected when she joined the program.
All together, the pieces are beginning to fit.
The Lady Pioneers have relied on defense, teamwork and depth throughout the summer while continuing to develop chemistry. More importantly, they've continued winning, even while playing shorthanded.
Now comes one final summer measuring stick.
Warren County will close its offseason schedule this week at the BCAT Tournament, one of Tennessee's premier summer basketball showcases. The Lady Pioneers are scheduled to play four games in two days, opening Thursday against Grace Knoxville at 1 p.m. before facing Dyersburg at 5 p.m.
Action resumes Friday when Warren County takes on Jackson County at 4 p.m. before concluding the event against Middle College at 6 p.m.
