Some athletes step onto the court with fire. Others step on with purpose. For Bethel senior Lexi Tucker, this season is about both — fire in her game, purpose in her heart. As she says, “My goals for this season are to be a positive role model for the underclassmen and to surpass all of my career highs.”
With every starter returning and years of shared experience, Bethel’s connection shows. “Our team chemistry is stronger than ever. The underclassmen have embraced their roles with great energy and positivity, and as a group we mesh well.” On the floor, that chemistry reflects in real growth. “The biggest improvement this year has definitely been our communication, on and off the court, and how open we are to each other’s input.”
Bethel isn’t just playing games — they’re chasing history. “Our ultimate goal is to make it to the state tournament, and we’re working toward that by giving our all in practice, pushing ourselves in the weight room, and continuing to improve our team chemistry.” Their defensive focus has become a defining identity. “Our biggest strength right now is our defense. We communicate extremely well about where we need to be, whether we’re running a zone or a man defense.”
At 5’9” and playing forward, Lexi mixes size and skill, always watching the defense. “I’m looking for any open lanes in the paint and how the defense reacts to the screen. I’m also checking whether the diagonal three is open for our shooters.”
Her effort shows in her performance: this season she’s averaging 13.8 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. But for Lexi, stats are only part of the story. Her faith-informed mentality steers every possession: “My mindset on the court is to trust my teammates and believe that whatever God has planned for the game will happen.”
Legacy matters to her as much as legacy-making plays. “I want to be known as someone who always stays positive, encouraging and supportive of my teammates, no matter the outcome of the game.” Off the court, the squad stays close: “Something most people may not know about this team is how much we cherish our time together outside of the sport. We’re not just teammates. Outside the game, we’re family.”
Looking ahead, she isn’t slowing down. Lexi plans to “play college basketball” and “become a physical therapist to help people.”
