A Closer Look at the Girls Basketball Team

By David Verduzco

The girls’ basketball team had a phenomenal year last year, ending with a record of 20-4. The team returns their entire starting lineup other than one starter that graduated. Some key names to know: Lucy Young, Leah Smith, Lilliana Arechiga, Erin Cook, and Bethany Carpenter. These girls on the same court together are tough to handle given their height and basketball knowledge. 

Lucy Young, a 6’3” sophomore looks to lead her team to victory. Lucy is a heavily recruited forward, and can be a force inside and on the perimeter. As just a freshman, Lucy was the star of last year. Her off-season work and determination led her to her biggest game of the year, a 42 point showing against their rivals, Kalamazoo Christian. Her performance led the Irish to an upset win and biggest win of the year. I had a chance to speak with Lucy, she was asked the question: What’s your team’s strengths this year, and why will this team be even better than last year's? Her answer was simple, “Our height and length will be our strength this year, especially in the post.” Her answer to the second question was “Our returners will have to play a big part in making this team successful because they will have more experience.” We are all very excited to see what Lucy and her team can accomplish this year!

Leah Smith, a sharp-shooting senior guard, also had a great year last year. Leah adds a lot to the team because she is a threat from outside and can also make dump off passes to taller girls on the block look effortless. I also had a chance to speak with Leah, and she was asked the question: What are some of your goals for this season? Leah’s answer to this was “We want to get even farther in the playoffs than last year, and maintain a really good record while doing so.” Leah will be a name to watch this year, and the team will play well with her on the floor.