WHITESBURG Ky. (WYMT) - The #2 Letcher Central Lady Cougars landed in San Diego, California Wednesday afternoon, as they get set for the Surf N' Slam basketball tournament.

Two seasons ago, this team had to learn to play without their leading scorer Kelah Eldridge. Towards the end of last season, they had to learn to play without Vannah Breeding. Both sat out because of injuries. Both instances has made this group of girls a better team and they are now seeing the results.

"My team, I think has done a pretty good job at not watching Kelah play. Now two years ago, her sophomore year, that is what we were in December when she got hurt. So, we had to all shift gears in different direction and then last year when Vannah went out, it hurt you know", said head coach Dickie Adams.

"But, they are not standing and watching them play. Julie (Cornett) has played well so far. But she has battled illness, but she is playing better. Keisha Collins has been a much bigger part this year, when she has been healthy, and she's been healthy the last couple of games. So, it's a weakness and it's something they have to deal with. But, I think if you come out at the end of it, having those girls able to play, it's a strength."