Chattahoochee’s first 3-0 start in a decade was sparked by a convincing 68-22 win over Dunwoody to open their season in late November.

Senior forward Cassidy Gaillard played a key role in that victory, popping seven first half three-pointers to give the Lady Cougars a comfortable lead and plenty of momentum heading into the rest of the season.

“She really set the tone for the year in that first half,” said Chattahoochee girls’ basketball coach Haaris Quraishy of his sharp-shooting senior forward. “Cassidy has been so important to our success this year. She is the perfect example of how a person can lead without being as vocal [because] she works hard every single day and that is contagious throughout our team.”

At 5-foot-11 Gaillard is also much more than the long-range specialist she proved to be against Dunwoody. The senior has used her height to pull down six rebounds per game, is scoring 19 points per game so far and is athletic enough to run the floor and play defense.

“She is everything a coach could ask for and more,” said Quraishy, before pointing out that she also holds a 99 average in the classroom and stays involved in her church and community.

“Honestly, [she’s] the best person I have ever been around.”