After an impressive 2023 season that saw Valparaiso capture both sectional and regional titles, junior point guard Lillian Barnes is returning with even higher aspirations. Barnes, an undeniable talent from northwest Indiana, is primed to lead her team with a blend of skill, maturity, and a focus on teamwork.
“My biggest attributes this year will be moving the basketball and getting everyone involved. We’re also a young team, so communication will be crucial,” Barnes shared in a recent interview with Justin Hartsough of One Nation Sports Indiana. Her emphasis on communication and teamwork shows the maturity and leadership that her Valparaiso squad needs, especially with a new head coach at the helm.
This season marks the beginning of a new chapter for Valparaiso under head coach Kelly Kratz, a former standout at Chesterton and a seasoned coach from Merrillville. Kratz, who brings years of experience and a deep understanding of the game, inherits a team that finished second in the DAC last season with an impressive 19-8 (6-1) record. With Kratz’s guidance, Barnes is optimistic about the journey ahead.
“Coach Kratz has been amazing for this program. We’ve been working all summer and preseason, learning and improving together. We’re excited for our journey to begin!” said Barnes.
Standing at 5’10″, Barnes has put in tireless work during the offseason to build on her sophomore performance, which saw her average 17 points and 6.6 rebounds per game. Her offseason focus? Fine-tuning her shot selection from beyond the arc to become a more dynamic threat.
“I’ve been working on getting more comfortable and confident with my outside shot from three and off the dribble,” she shared. Her commitment to growth has not gone unnoticed, as college recruitment has begun to intensify. With Division I offers from schools like Ball State, Butler, Dayton, Kent State, and even Ohio State, Barnes is on the radar of many programs looking for a versatile and hard-working point guard. She is searching for a college that will not only elevate her skills on the court but also foster lasting relationships and a positive team culture.
“I want to go somewhere where I’ll be pushed every day, where I can become a better player, build lifelong relationships, and find a team with a strong culture,” Barnes explained.
This season, Barnes has her eyes set on significant milestones. Not only does she aim to lead Valparaiso to another sectional title, but she is also just 102 points away from reaching 1,000 career points—a historic achievement. Coming off a season in which she led the DAC with 140 assists, 29 blocks, and 115 steals, Barnes is poised to make an even bigger impact this year.
“This year, I hope to reach 1,000 points and, as a team, make it back to the sectional championship with our new coaches!” Barnes exclaimed, displaying the same determination and optimism that make her a leader on and off the court.
Valparaiso’s season kicks off on Thursday, November 7th, with an away game against Bowman Academy in Gary, Indiana. With tip-off set for 7 p.m., fans are sure to witness the beginning of an exciting new season for Barnes and the Lady Vikings as they aim for greatness under their new leadership.