BY HAROLD DENNEY
After losing a strong group of seniors to graduation, the girls basketball team now looks to the four returning seniors and upcoming underclassmen to step up this season. Coming off an 11-15 season where the team lost in the Quarterfinal round of the NJSIAA Tournament, the team continues to work hard and accomplish a successful season.
The team returns six players with extensive experience, including seniors Aly Chan, Adriana Misciagna, Jada Kmiec, and Haylee Blackman. “We’re in a great position to build on last year’s progress,” explained Adriana Misciagna, who led the team in points last year with 289. “I expect us to be more cohesive and competitive, and I’m confident we’ll continue to grow and make a strong push throughout the season.”
Chan, who scored 68 points last season, returns for her fourth season at the varsity level year and expects to make this year another great one. “We lost a few key players, but we’ve gained some great freshmen players and have all improved from working hard and pushing ourselves in the offseason,” said Chan.
Throughout the off-season, the girls used various team activities to prepare for a successful season. “Over the summer, coach hosted workouts for the team, as well as conditioning and lifting practices,” said junior Payton Kmiec, who has scored 56 career points. “We also attended the Team Camp at Keystone College, which involved a select group of girls to sleep away while also playing tournament style games.”
Blackman will take on the role of team captain for the upcoming season. “We have prepared during our workouts throughout the off season working on playing better as a team,” explained Blackman. “We just want to play our best and have a successful season, and a goal I have for myself is to do a good job leading the team as captain this year.”
This season all the players have goals for themselves and the team, and they look to expand from last season. “[I set] goals for myself while also setting goals for the team as a whole to improve our record from last season,” said Marilyn Togun, who last season had 103 rebounds as a freshman.
After the hard work the girls put in all summer, they intend to play fierce and fast all season long. “This season is mainly about our positive culture and letting our game evolve into a more fast-paced style,” said Payton Kmiec.
The season opens up at home against North Plainfield at 7pm on Thursday, December 19. Make sure to be there and support the girls.
Posted on 12/18/24
Photos provided by Lors Photography
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