BY KAYLEE WEINGARTEN
The girls basketball team ended their season with a win in the first round of the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group IV Tournament and a record of 11-15. After losing four of last year’s top scorers to graduation, returning senior starter Abigail Jazmin led the young team through a rebuilding season.
Even in a down year, the team qualified for the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group IV Tournament and won their first-round match-up with Montgomery on February 21. “Coach Alspach had a scouting report and we prepared as a team for the game against Montgomery,” said junior Adriana Miscianga, who scored 17 points. “Once the game started, we all had to work together, remember the plan we had in place and implement what we practiced all season.”
Unfortunately, the girls fell just short against the one-seed Hightstown, 54-50, in the following round. “[I am] super proud of how the girls fought. We faced a lot of adversity throughout the season,” boasted coach Alec Alspach. “We came back and played some great basketball at the end of the season.”
The team finished the season strong, winning five of their final seven games. “Everyone on the team relied on each other and worked together to grow as a team and be better together,” said Marilyn Togun, who played in all 26 games as a freshman.
Earlier in the season, the Knights took first place in a tournament over winter break.” “My highlight of this season would definitely be the Piscataway Holiday Tournament were we went 3-0!” said Haylee Blackman, who scored 168 points this season.
The girls defeated Edison 48-37 and Woodbridge 38-37 before taking down Spotswood 45-41 to earn the trophy. “Those wins made my team feel great,” added Togun, who brought in 103 rebounds.
Outstanding underclassmen shined bright this season with Misciagna, a junior, leading the team in points with 289. After barely playing as a sophomore Misciagna earned her playing time, and NJ.com selected her 2nd Team All-Red Division. “I’m happy to get the recognition, but I know I have a lot more to work on,” shared Misciagna.
Sophomore Danielle Boateng ended the season with 195 points, finishing as the third highest scoring player this season. Boateng said that “playing hard, being focused, and having a sense of urgency” led to her successful season.
Togun, a first-time varsity player, dominated in her first OBHS season. “Honestly, it has been a great experience because it’s definitely something different than what I’m used to,” explained Togun.
Jazmin, the team’s only senior starter, has served as a notable player since her freshman year. “Abby has been a 4-year varsity player here at Old Bridge. Shes had an impact in almost every game since her freshman year. Shes also our team captain and leader,” shared Alpach.
With their senior captain graduating this year, the younger players on the team will step up next season. “Leadership to me has always been expressed in action rather than words,” said Misciagna. “I’ve spent my offseason working hard. I like to think I’m ready to help my team advance for next season.”
Posted on 3/19/24
Photos by Frank Papeo and Lors Photography
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