The Monterey Lady Wildcats are advancing to the region tournament, and senior Carlee Wright is determined to make sure the postseason push does not stop there.
Wright said her impact goes beyond points on the scoreboard. It is about lifting teammates, setting the tone, and growing from the adversity she experienced early in her career.
“Whenever you’re a freshman, you know that you’re not gonna play as much,” Wright said. “But whenever I was a freshman, I basically sat on the bench the whole year so I just learned that I need to improve and then, that’s what he taught me how to do.”
Now a 5-foot-10 senior who can play both small forward and power forward, Wright has developed into one of Monterey’s most versatile players. This year she has become one of the team’s defensive anchors, leading the Lady Wildcats in blocks per game.
Head coach Randall Phillips said Wright’s work ethic and commitment to improvement have turned her into a vital presence, not just statistically, but emotionally.
Basketball also runs deep in the Wright family. Carlee will become the second Wright to graduate from Monterey, following her older sister Lindsay, who once led the Lady Wildcats in scoring. Lindsay graduated during Carlee’s sophomore year, but Wright said Lindsay’s example still fuels her today.
“She was a great leader and I would like to be like her,” Wright said.
Wright has had her own standout moments, including earning Player of the Game honors in a matchup against Watertown last season. But she says her focus now is not on individual accolades, but on team growth.
As Monterey heads into region play following Thursday’s loss to York, Wright said she believes experience, resilience, and leadership will matter most.
“I don’t think [my career ending[ will [hit] until I actually step foot off the court,” Wright said. “I’m really excited for [this postseason.]”
With her versatility, family inspiration, and drive to elevate those around her, Wright said she is looking to leave her mark on Monterey’s postseason run, not just in points, but in leadership that can carry the Lady Wildcats forward.
