Girls basketball has strong start to season following changes in coaching staff and starting lineup

Jan. 10, 2025

By Isabella Apple
Staff Writer

The girls basketball team began its season on Dec. 17 with a 54-12 win at home against Saddle Brook High School. As of Jan. 9, the team’s record was 6-3.

Senior captain and forward and guard Asya Akar, who has been on varsity for four years, said this season has been marked by change.

Only two of last year’s five starters, Akar and senior guard Sam Mayer, returned this season. Junior Brooke Harper and senior Kyla Marino are out due to ACL injuries, and Kiera Docherty graduated in June 2024.

Changing around the lineup and seeing what position every play fits on the court will definitely be challenging,” Akar said.

The team also has a new coaching staff, which consists of Head Coach Kesack and Assistant Coach Tuero.

Akar said she has been enjoying the fun and competitive atmosphere during practices, which led to positive results at the season opener. 

“The hardest part of the first game was getting in the groove of playing. As it [was] our first game of the season, we were a bit shaky and nervous, but as we finished the game, we let go of the stress and started playing loosely,” Akar said. 

Junior guard and forward Mylah Campbell, who has been on varsity for two years, said she has high expectations for the upcoming games.

“Winning is a team effort. I have to stay compliant and willing to move around and play positions out of my comfort zone.”

“The team has a more positive and better approach going into this season, and this is going to make us a closer team and make us stronger,” Campbell said.

She said the team’s chemistry is especially strong because the players have developed a connection by spending time at each other’s homes.

“Everyone feels included, and we all connect as a team on and off the court,” Campbell said.

Senior guard Alexia Marmorato, who has been on varsity for three years, said as an experienced player, she encourages her teammates when they are feeling down and tries to maintain a positive attitude regardless of the challenges she faces.

“Winning is a team effort. I have to stay compliant and willing to move around and play positions out of my comfort zone,” Marmorato said.

She said the team’s goal this season is to win states.

“By staying motivated and working hard, we can do that with the help of our coaches,” said Marmorato.