Photos by Illy Boudwin
By Paris Chavis
The Women’s basketball team finished with the same 5-18 record as last year, but their game was vastly different.
Younger players stepped into key roles and led the team in several stats. Sophomore Au’Nehstii Hagans averaged a team-best 10 points per game. Freshman Nijla Epps contributed 5.4 points per game and 1.6 rebounds. Both gained valuable varsity experience.
“The parts of my game I improved this year were my layups, my emotions and decisions on the court,” Epps said.
Junior Saniya Thurman, who was a consistent starter this season, said the role came with responsibility toward both teammates and team captains.
“It was a big responsibility, because that means the captains had a lot of trust in me to do what I have to do on the court,” Thurman said.
Moments during the season like a tough loss to Southern, the eventual 7-A state runner up helped players feel they belonged on the floor among some of the top players in the area. And a big win over rival Northern in January provided a confidence boost.
“When we went against teams we played, it felt like it was really my level,” Epps said.
Players also pointed to moments that showed the team’s potential during the season.
“Probably the first northern game at Northern. Everybody was hitting their shots. It was good defense, good communication, good passes, just a good game overall.” Thurman said.
Looking ahead, Epps hopes to continue developing both as a player and teammate.
“By my senior year I want to be supportive with my teammates and a leader,” Epps said.
Beyond the physical side of the sport, Thurman said basketball also requires strong mental focus.
“Some people don’t see the emotional side of it,” she said. “There’s a lot of emotional and mental stuff that goes on with basketball.”
Assistant coach Craig Daye said continued improvement outside of the season will be important for the team’s future.
“I want to see more player accountability, finding ways to keep playing year round so they can continue improving,” Daye said.
He added that the work players put in during practice and preseason often goes unnoticed.
“The sweat and tears, practicing skills they aren’t familiar with and doing them over and over and until they become successful,” Daye said.
