Andover Girls Basketball Assistant Captain Kaylie Williams ’12 knocked down 24 out of Andover’s 45 points against Deerfield Academy. Andover utilized its tall post players to out-muscle Deerfield in the paint.
Assistant Coach Lewis Robinson said, “Kaylie Williams brought amazing energy to every possession, hauled in a lot of rebounds and was everywhere on the court. The Deerfield game was
really a highpoint for us and is an indication of how powerful we can be as a team when we are firing on all cylinders.”
Andover’s defense, led by Co-Captain Leah Humes ’12, was crucial in shutting down Deerfield’s drives. Humes guarded Deerfield’s point guard closely and forced her to turn over the ball multiple times which led to a number of easy fast-break points for Andover.
Williams said, “Our main focus in practice was the use of fast break in our offense, and we practiced a lot of drills that incorporate full court running and fast break ideals. I think this really assisted in our ability to convert on a lot of Deerfield’s turnovers, and eventually helped us win the game.”
New addition Cara Cavanaugh ’15 was also key in the win. Robinson said, “Cara is becoming a stronger and stronger player every day. She guards well in the low post and has an accurate shot.”
On Wednesday, Andover traveled to play an undefeated Noble and Greenough team with the goal of taking care of the ball and preventing turnovers. The team was effective from the start in moving the ball around and running the offense through the high post. Despite Andover’s aggressive play, Nobles managed to keep the lead until the buzzer, winning 51-41.
Amanda Simard ’13 said, “We fell to the undefeated [Noble and Greenough] team but really could have come out with the win. They were excessively scrappy and there were a few key moments that didn’t turn in our favor, but we could have won today. It was for sure a frustrating game, but I know that it will make us stronger and more determined to win this Saturday.”
Looking ahead the team will be working on staying in shape as it prepares for the latter part of the season. Andover will also focus on shooting and team drills in practice to emphasize high pressure situations.
The team will once again face off against the Worcester team it beat earlier in the season on Saturday.