Credit to Samantha Shoulta

The girls’ basketball program has seen major development in recent years, with more players joining and a stronger team culture developing. While most schools measure success by wins and losses, this team prides itself on something deeper—friendship, unity, and continuous improvement.

Junior Addy Jones has noticed the changes in the program as it grows, particularly in how practices are conducted.

“This year after losing seniors, our practices are shorter, but they are more intense and competitive than in years past,” Jones said. “A lot of conditioning, trying to be in shape.”

That intensity has contributed to the team’s growing reputation, but so has the culture of teamwork built through traditions and bonding experiences. Senior Sophia Manzella has been part of the program for four years and believes this connection sets the team apart.

“I would say our friendship or teamwork sets our team apart the most, and especially this year just because we’re all really connected,” Manzella said. “Other schools in the area might be better at the actual game, but our team has a really strong bond, which is good.”

The program has introduced several new traditions, such as Secret Santa exchanges, team decorating for events like Pink Out, and road trips to out-of-town tournaments. These activities have helped foster a strong sense of camaraderie among the players.

“This year we started a big sister, little sister thing,” Manzella said. “Each varsity player was given one or two JV or C-team players to mentor and get gifts for throughout the season. This is the first year we’ve done it, and I loved it so much. I was able to become really close with my littles, Marena and Joanna, and I probably wouldn’t have been able to without this.”

Jones agreed, encouraging younger players to give the program a try without hesitation.

“They should give it a try. They could love it, and you could meet some very nice people,” Jones said.

The rise in popularity of girls’ basketball at the school can also be recognized to the welcoming atmosphere and exciting events like Pink Out and Senior Night, which bring energy to the program. Social media has also played a huge role in the expansion of the program.

“Our Twitter page is full of pictures of us at dinners, out-of-town tournaments, or even having fun at practice,” Manzella said. “I think new players seeing this definitely makes our program look attractive and fun.”

For the future, both Jones and Manzella see a bright future for the team, especially with younger players stepping up.

“I definitely see a lot of middle school players coming in,” Jones said. “We also have a lot of younger kids showing up to our games.”

Manzella agreed, mentioning the potential in the underclassmen.

“There’s girls who have been in the program for years or just joined this year as freshmen who have amazing potential to be great,” Manzella said. “I hope to see all of them continue to play basketball and grow as people to continue boosting our program.”

Another key factor in the team’s recent success has been players putting in work outside of the season. Jones noted that extra effort, whether in the offseason or at the start of the year, has helped the team improve.

With a strong culture, rising talent, and growing community support, the girls’ basketball team is set to thrive for years to come.