DRIBBLE, SHOOT!
1
Serving as the starting point guard for the girls varsity basketball team, Nellie Johnson ‘21 dribbles and searches for an open teammate downcourt. The Panthers played a strong game, beating North Broward Preparatory School with a score of 36-30.
2
WIN TOGETHER, LOSE TOGETHER words by Dominic Johnson /photos by Grace Sager
A
s the sound of squeaking sneakers and the bouncing ball echoed through the gym, fans cheered as the girls varsity basketball team dribbled the ball down the court and made their way toward the basket. In addition to spending time together as a sports team, these girls make up a family. “There are so many amazing girls that I have met that I never thought I would befriend before,” Nellie Johnson ‘21 said. “It is just a great dynamic where you can make long lasting friendships.” Outside of Stacy Gym, a second home to many of the girls on the team, the team formed a strong bond both on and off the court. “My favorite memory was our secret Santa exchange, it was a way for us all to bond and have fun,” Isaebelle Ferrando ‘21 said. “I know
784
Total points
32
Games
we had a lot of fun at each game and everyone was super positive and uplifting.” Although, the team may not have won every single game they played, the coaches and players always supported one another, through wins and losses. “My favorite part of the season was being with my friends and gaining experience because we are a young team,” Sloan Shade ‘22 said. The team said another wonderful aspect of being a part of a team is seeing the improvement in others. Several girls joined the team this year with little to no experience, but the others supported them and were impressed by their confidence. The team felt they imrpoved greatly over the season, adding the support of each other to the list of benefits of being a part of a team and a family.
4
Coaches
20
Players
3 1. After scoring a point, Ava Nudelberg ‘24 high fives her teammate Sloan Shade ‘22. Following her successful shot, the girls ran backcourt to defend their basket. 2. Dribbling in the paint, Alex Gladding ‘23 fends off an opponent from stealing the ball. Alex moved towards the hoop to score an easy shot. 3. With her eyes focused on the hoop, Lily Spyredes ‘22 stands on the free throw line. She kept her form steady to make sure that she scored the extra point.
BOYS BASKETBALL & GIRLS BASKETBALL
091 ]