After defeating two more teams at home this week, Andover’s Girls Basketball brought its overall winning streak to 14. With only one game remaining in the regular season, the team hopes to clinch a 17-2 record. Andover crushed NMH at home last Friday with a final score of 53-33. While NMH was not the strongest opponent that Andover has faced this season, the team earned the victory by incorporating the depth of its roster into the game. After a sluggish start, Andover picked up the intensity to gain a decisive lead over NMH. Riley Gardner ’10 said, “One important thing we took away from this was to start and finish our games at a high intensity.” The key to the team’s success was “team defense,” said Co-Captain Catherine Coppinger ’09. Point guard Jasmine Hardy ’09 led the team to its victory with her performance on Friday. “Jasmine is the definition of a good point guard,” said Ansley White ’10. White added that Hardy excels at keeping the offense flowing, and she also has great vision on the court. ? Laura Amorosa ’10 also impressed the crowd with her offensive force and persevering attitude. She anticipated each play and had a number of rewarding steals on defense.? Gardner also had a notable game against NMH, adding vital points for the home team and intimidating her opponent with ruthless defense. Another great performance for Andover came from Co-Captain Becca Bendetson ’09. Bendetson used her hustle and tight defensive skills to outrun and defeat her NMH opponents. The team continues to work hard in practice, improving not only its skills and strength, but also its cohesiveness. White said, “Everyone on the team brings something to the court, and this teamwork has been integral to the outcome of our season.” “Our chemistry really started falling into place after working hard in practices,” she continued. The team’s best preparation technique is staying focused on winning the next game. Hardy said, “In order to keep winning all it takes is one game at a time.” In their game on Wednesday, Andover was in control of its court against The Rivers School, winning 52-33. Andover’s defense once again proved unstoppable. This game was particularly satisfying for Andover since Rivers is traditionally one of the better teams in the Class B league. Last year Rivers defeated Andover, so this year the girls came out looking for revenge. Megan Robertson ’11 demonstrated great hustle and leadership against Rivers. White also played well, helping to keep up the team energy and motivation. White made several defensive rebounds, maximizing the team’s opportunities. After their game against Exeter on Saturday, the Girls Basketball team will head to playoffs. Ranked number one in the league, the team plans to move forward with force and possibly take home the Championship at the Class A New England tournament.
