A Journey of Faith and Basketball
Piper Coots, a senior guard for the Cullman Christian Lady Lions, is entering her sixth varsity season with a blend of athletic ambition and spiritual purpose. Having spent eight years under the guidance of Coach Heith Yearwood, she reflects on how the program has shaped both her game and her character.
Yearwood, a coach who prioritizes character development as much as competition, has been a constant mentor since Coots first stepped onto the court in eighth grade. Their relationship extends beyond drills, weaving biblical principles into daily practice and encouraging the team to view each game as a platform for witness.
Last season the Lady Lions finished 11‑15 and earned their first Sub‑Regional berth, a milestone that set the stage for a renewed focus on unity and faith. Coots notes that the team’s identity is rooted in a shared commitment to foster closer relationships with the Lord while striving for on‑court improvement.
The departure of senior leaders Gracie Stidham and point guard Zoe Powell, who was celebrated for her ball‑handling and encouragement, leaves a void that the returning roster is eager to fill. Alongside Coots, senior Lila Stubbs will also anchor the lineup, while a mix of juniors and underclassmen bring fresh energy after a productive summer of workouts.
Coots’ personal objectives include surpassing her highest single‑game scoring mark and refining her offensive arsenal. She credits Yearwood for teaching her that leadership is not about shouldering the burden alone but about uplifting teammates both on and off the hardwood.
Spiritual growth remains central; her favorite verse, Romans 8:18, reminds her that the future glory will outweigh present struggles, a sentiment echoed in her favorite worship song, The Blood by Prestonwood Worship. The team’s atmosphere, she says, is charged with laughter, energy, and a collective reliance on God’s guidance.
Looking Ahead
As the new season approaches, Coots expresses excitement about playing her senior year under Yearwood and alongside her teammates. She sees the upcoming campaign as an opportunity to blend athletic excellence with the deep‑seated faith that has defined her Cullman Christian experience.