Royal’s Ward leaving lasting impression on many observers

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Was hanging out the other day, talking about the whole girls’ basketball scene in Ventura County with someone I truly respect, Art White, a knowledgeable source, considering he’s been a scoreboard operator in the region for quite some time. He spoke highly of Erika Ward from Royal, and, mind you, I’ve heard of the name but never had the opportunity to check out her game.

Anyways, got to thinking about what Art had to say, knowing full well he wouldn’t steer me in the wrong direction, and decided it was time to see Ward for myself. Wouldn’t you know, it just so happens the Highlanders are playing at Newbury Park on Wednesday in a showdown for the Marmonte League title. This is a must-see game.

‘You know, Erika is something else, one of those real special players that only comes around once in a while,’’ Royal Coach Mike Kohl said. ‘I’ve had opposing coaches come up to me after games and tell me that she reminds them of Kobe Bryant -- on a much smaller scale, of course. Hey, she can do it all. She’s our leader. Our unquestioned leader.’’

If statistics are any indication of what’s in store, the trip to catch Ward in action could end up being well worth it. She averages 14.5 points, 5.9 assists 3.3 rebounds and 3.1 steals a game and is being recruited by several NCAA Division I programs, most notably Princeton and St. Mary’s. You know what? It looks as if my guy Art is on to something here.

--Sean Ceglinsky