by James Tate

Head Coach: Nicole Waddoups

2026-2027 Record: Overall (16-9) Region (6-2)

The Davis Darts enter the 2026-27 season with plenty of reasons for optimism after finishing 16-9 overall, placing second in Region 1 with a 6-2 record, and advancing to the Class 6A state quarterfinals last year. Now entering her third season at the helm, head coach Nicole Waddoups believes this year’s squad may be the most experienced group she has coached at Davis.

“This is the most experienced team I have coached in my three years here at Davis,” Coach Waddoups said. “We have many returning this year that played some good minutes all last year and into the quarterfinals before losing.”

That experience starts with a talented senior class led by Lydia Tarbet, Hannah Garlock, and Kate Willard, who have helped guide the Darts through a productive offseason and established themselves as the team’s leaders.

Kate Willard

Veteran leadership sets the tone for the Darts

According to Coach Waddoups, the trio’s understanding of the game and ability to navigate difficult situations have been instrumental in the team’s growth throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

“Lydia, Hannah, and Kate have grown as leaders throughout this year, and they are able to help lead our team on the court, especially in tight games,” Coach Waddoups said. “They have shown grit and determination that have made our team tough to beat.”

In addition to those three standouts, Davis will benefit from senior Cambell Christensen and sophomore Emma Knight. Christensen provides a strong interior presence and is one of the team’s most versatile athletes. An MVP softball player known for her competitive drive, Christensen brings strength, athleticism, and relentless energy every time she steps on the floor. Her willingness to do the little things, from battling for rebounds to defending in the paint, makes her a valuable piece of the Darts’ lineup.

Knight emerged as one of the team’s brightest young players late last season, showing flashes of star potential in the Darts’ state quarterfinal loss to Westlake. Also look for senior guard Hadlie Chamberlin to make an impact this season and add depth for the Darts.

The leadership extends throughout the roster. Willard, a Weber State soccer signee, brings outstanding athleticism and defensive instincts after appearing in 69 career games. Willard led Davis in both scoring and rebounding a season ago, averaging 12.8 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, and established herself as one of the region’s top two-way players. Her stellar season earned her a spot on the 2026 Deseret News First Team All-State Team.

Tarbet, the defending state champion in the 100 meters, adds elite speed, leadership, and athleticism that opponents will struggle to match. Her ability to impact games on both ends of the floor helped earn her a spot on the 2026 Standard-Examiner All-Area Girls Basketball Honorable Mention Team.

Meanwhile, Garlock’s ball-handling, court awareness, and leadership make her a steady backcourt presence. Together, Willard, Tarbet, and Garlock form the backbone of a disruptive defensive unit. The trio combined for 215 steals last season, consistently creating transition opportunities and helping fuel the Darts’ up-tempo style of play.

Hannah Garlock

Davis focused on making the next leap

While Davis brings significant experience and talent, Waddoups believes the key to taking the next step is maximizing every possession.

“In order for this team to take the next step, we have to learn how to value every offensive possession,” Coach Waddoups said. “We need to learn how to take the best shot, and we need to play together. We need to value team before individual.”

The Darts have already begun emphasizing those principles as they prepare for the upcoming season. Davis has built its identity around an up-tempo style of play that looks to score early while pairing offensive pressure with a strong defensive foundation.

With a veteran roster, proven leadership, and a demanding schedule that Coach Waddoups believes will have her team “battle-tested” by the time the state tournament arrives, the Darts appear poised to once again contend near the top of Region 1.

If Davis can combine its experience with improved offensive efficiency and continued defensive intensity, the Darts could position themselves for another deep postseason run and perhaps a return trip beyond the quarterfinal round.

photos courtesy of James Tate