Cadence Pettis – Searcy (501 Basketball Team 2025)

For Searcy senior guard Cadence Pettis, basketball isn’t just a game, it’s in her blood.

“I’ve been playing basketball since fourth grade,” she said. “Everyone on my mom’s side of the family played, so a lot of family conversations were centered around basketball. I decided I wanted to try it and never looked back.”

A second-round appearance in last year’s Class 5A state tournament left Pettis and the Lions hungry for more in 2025.

“Cadence was a key part of our success last year,” Searcy Head Coach Kim Sitzmann said. “As one of our only seniors, she has stepped into a big leadership role for us. She is uplifting and pushes our younger players to elevate our team.”

“We’re young this year, so getting acclimated to the flow and finding a consistent rhythm has been our goal this season,” Pettis said. “Everyone has been receptive to feedback and we’re improving. Our goal is to peak at the right time and make a run.”

Her high basketball IQ has paid off for the Lions this season, leading to big wins for Searcy. 

“Cadence is our defensive stopper,” Sitzmann said. 

“She anticipates where a rebound will fall and secures it. She can guard small or big players as well. Offensively, she does a great job moving and slashing through the lane and is one of our best offensive rebounders.”

Off the court, Pettis is involved with Beta Club and Spanish Honorary at Searcy High School, with plans to pursue a college degree in teaching or nursing.