As the girls’ basketball team reaches the middle of their season, there is a lot of positivity to reflect on, goals to be met, and no doubt that the team will be successful in the remainder of their season.
Currently, the team holds a record of 4-9. Earlier this week, the girls played Seneca Valley, who are ranked top 50 in the state, away. The final score was 45-41, the team losing in a close game of only four points. Their next game is this Friday against Bethesda Chevy Chase, who are ranked 16th in the state. Senior captain Naima Cho-Khaliq said, “Our record isn’t amazing but it’s because we have the toughest schedule in the county.”
Junior Megan Lomotan has a similar opinion. “I think the season is going pretty well. We’ve been playing really good teams recently so have had a tough time for the past few games but we never give up. Everyday we are getting better and working hard. We never give up and continue to work hard.”
Despite their loss in the most recent game, the girls are putting up a fight in games and putting their best foot forward. “I feel like our season is going very well, we are keeping up with the top teams in Maryland. I think our chemistry as a team is great and we are doing good,” Cho-Khaliq said.
A popular opinion that the players have is the strong positive chemistry the team holds, like a sisterhood. “I would say the team chemistry is definitely great. We have become really close and I think that’s what makes this team so special,” Lomotan said.
Despite the tough start to the season, it has given the team motivation to make a comeback and put a good rhythm in place. Junior Avni Koenig said, “We have a pretty tough schedule this year but I think that’s good because it gives us time to improve and work on stuff early in the season.”
The team continues to work hard not only in games, but in practices as well. The dedication and love that the girls have for the team is unmatched. “To finish the season strongly I think we just need to keep improving our execution and composure in close games so that we can win tough matchups,” Koenig said.
Lomotan has advice that she thinks will help the team. “I think the team needs to continue to give 100% effort no matter the competition and just continue to learn to play with each other,” Lomotan said.
The JV team is also being held to high expectations to finish strong. They currently hold a 1-9 record, and won their first game earlier this week against Seneca Valley.
Both varsity and JV have another game this week at home against Blair on Friday, Jan. 17. JV starts at 5:30 p.m., and varsity directly after at 7:15 p.m. The teams hope to bring another win to the books.
