By ALBERT VILLEGAS
Special to the NEWS
RIO HONDO, TX—Raven Flores is now the head coach of arguably the Rio Grande Valley’s best high school girls’ basketball program, and with that comes the pressure to continue winning and to mold the Lady ’Cats now that she has been given this opportunity.
When asked how she plans to ease into that transition or perhaps implement changes, she said the varsity team has won six consecutive district titles for a reason.
“The first thing is to show respect for what’s already been established in the program; the championships are a credit to our previous coach and the players who came before me,” said Coach Flores, who is in her second year at Rio Hondo High School (RHHS).
“My goal isn’t to erase that foundation—it’s to build on it. Every coach has a style, and over time, I’ll introduce my expectations, philosophy, and culture. I want our players to compete with discipline, play together, and continue to hold themselves to a championship standard while embracing new ideas that can help us keep growing.”
Flores assisted Coach Victor Sauceda for one year, during which she lost two talented players to graduation — Abigail Atkinson and Rhianna Villarreal.
However, she returns with arguably the best point-scorer in the RGV, incoming junior Carlie Rodriguez, who averaged 27.7 points per game in 27 contests.
“Every season brings new challenges. We graduated two talented players who contributed to this program’s success, and replacing that experience won’t happen overnight,” Coach Flores said.
“At the same time, our district is always competitive, and we know every team will be working to improve. Our focus won’t be on comparing ourselves to others—it’ll be on maximizing our potential every day. If we continue to develop, compete consistently, and play together, we’ll give ourselves an opportunity to be successful and keep reloading each season.”
Some of the girls played in a hoops summer league that included players from larger schools such as San Benito, Los Fresnos, Brownsville, and Harlingen.
This, along with RHHS strength and conditioning programs, has enhanced these girls’ ability to focus on their upcoming sports seasons, which for some could include volleyball, golf and cross country.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work with many of our returning players in strength and conditioning, and I’ve been impressed by their commitment and willingness to work. They hate losing, and that’s one thing I love about these girls,” Coach Flores said.
The University Interscholastic League (UIL) doesn’t permit high school coaches to associate with their players during summer leagues, so in this instance, Rio Hondo was led by Charlie Rodriguez.
Still, Coach Flores could watch as a spectator from the stands.
“(During) summer games, I’ve seen them communicate, adjust, and show our incoming players how to execute the way they do it. I find that important because the best players learn from each other. That’s how team chemistry is built. They show up, compete, and embrace the challenge of getting better each day,” Coach Flores said.
“More than anything, I’ve noticed their coachability and desire to continue improving. Those qualities are just as important as talent, and they give me confidence in the direction we’re headed,” she added.
Since 2019, RHHS has compiled an incredible 96-4 district record, including a COVID-19 season.
During a typical playing season, the Lady ’Cats have accumulated at least 24 victories each year.
Last year, during a 28-2 campaign, the only two losses Coach Flores experienced with the girls were to the Lyford Lady Bulldogs and the Bishop Lady Badgers.
Coach Flores said her responsibilities go beyond what each girl does on the basketball court, extending into their lives and outside the halls of RHHS.
“For me, this position is about much more than coaching basketball. It’s about building relationships, mentoring young women, and helping them grow on and off the court,” Coach Flores said.
“Rio Hondo has a proud tradition of excellence, and the opportunity to be part of that tradition while helping shape the next generation of Lady ’Cats was one I couldn’t pass up. I’m excited to invest in these amazing athletes and this community,” Flores explained.
Coach Tony Jaramillo will serve as her assistant once the season begins in November.
Rio Hondo Independent School District Athletic Director Rocky James said the decision to have Coach Flores lead the Lady ’Cats’ basketball program was clear. He explained that he appreciated her approach with the student-athletes and that she’s learned a lot under Coach Sauceda.
Flores is leading a program that has consistently ranked among the best Class 3A basketball teams in the entire state.