The MMS girls’ basketball team started the season 7-1–looking strong after playing every team in their conference. They are confident on defense, great on offense, and dominant in the paint.
The team is comprised of Sienna Giancola, Giuliana Denigris, Addie Nichols, Aniyah Adams, Olivia Reaze, McKenna Grim, Lily Meek, Riley Seitz, Brandi Paige, and Janelle Binhary. They are coached by former player, Mrs. Shannon Russo.
Based on statistics so far in the season, Addie, Janelle, Giuliana, and Riley have had the best defensive efforts this season. The offense is on fire this season. Top scorers are Sienna, averaging 10 points per game, Aniyah, averaging 9 points per game, and Brandi, averaging 7 points per game. The post players are essential to a team; it is where most of the points are scored. Some of the best efforts here are made by Olivia, McKenna, and Lily.
When interviewed about her team, Mrs. Russo noted how her team “has grown so much this season” and is “very intense.” Mrs. Russo said that the game against South stood out as a highlight. In that game Sienna and Aniyah had five three-pointers together and “everyone looked amazing in the paint.” They won the game 46-23 over Willoughby South. Mrs. Russo also highlighted how the 8th-grade team “brings the intensity” and “encourages the seventh graders to get better.”
Aniyah Adam, shooting guard, said, “the season is going good. We are doing well on our full-court press and defense.” Aniyah shared that she aspires to be like Mrs. Russo because she is a “good player and has a good mindset.” Her favorite thing about being on the team has been forming friendships and winning games.
Olivia Reaze noted that this season she has “definitely improved and stepped up my game in many ways. I am putting myself out there on the court.” An aspect she told us she can bring to the team is “I can be locked into what I’m doing and I’m very positive in-game but can work on it in practice.” The women’s basketball player Olivia would want to be like is Aaliyah Boston: “She has a positive attitude and is a good post player.”
McKenna said that overall, MMS has a great team” this year but notes that one area for improvement is they “could talk a little more.” McKenna is post-player and says that aspect of the game comes easiest to her. Her favorite women’s basketball player is “Kate Martin because she is a great player and has a good personality.”
The 8th-grade girl basketball team is having a positive season. They hope to continue this season by winning the tournament at Kenston. The girls show their hard work and dedication to the sport.
