The Malden High Girls’ Varsity Basketball Team won 41-32 against the Medford Mustangs on January 2nd at Malden High’s Finn Gym. This was an intense, back-and-forth game with the ball on each side of the court.
The first quarter of the game consisted of many back-and-forths. Though the Medford Mustangs earned the first few points, Malden continued to keep up their defense
Toward the end of the first quarter, senior Amanda Lily Ebenezer scored a basket that put Malden on the board. These points set the tone offensively for the rest of the game.
Defensively, seniors Ina Tolete and Kimberly Tropnas, as well as junior Madison Cook, were able to shut down and frustrate Medford’s two best players. Their efforts on defense led the way for defense throughout the entire game. “Our defense won the game for us,” emphasized Coach Scott Marino.
“We received outstanding contributions from Olivia Rodrigues, Jenesa Perez Sims, Jaziarra Antoine, Aaliyah Ferreira, and Sophia Rodrigues off the bench as well,” stated Marino.
As the second quarter started, the teams entered the court with the scoreboard reading 6-2 in favor of Malden. Showing a good fight for the ball, sophomore Manicha Exilhomme flourished on the court with all the points she was scoring. Exilhomme was scoring points left and right for her team.
Malden displayed their teamwork with fast passing, solid defense, and quick rebounds, keeping the pressure on Medford. The quarter ended with a score of 16-5 in favor of Malden. This had the crowd riled up and the energy was high in the gym. Overall, the first two quarters showcased much determination from both teams, while Exilhomme, without a doubt, brought it to the offensive side for Malden.
Malden came out launching into the third quarter with strong offensive pressure. They switched their technique and started zoning in. Seniors Lily Ebenezer, Tropnas, and Exilhomme all made remarkable shots, bringing the score up. Even though they began to focus on their offensive component in the game, their defense never fell short and they did not let Medford catch up. The third quarter ended 26-17.
Entering the final quarter, Malden immediately displayed their hungry determination to win. With her amazing shooting skills, Tropnas scored a 3-pointer, which automatically had the audience locked into the game. Malden’s girls were able to keep up a solid defense and block some shots from the Mustangs, keeping them on their toes. They were able to keep up their determination throughout the whole game earning the score of 41-32 with Malden winning.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Coach Marino acknowledged the score and good work while also recognizing that there were some areas for improvement. “Although we won, we were far from perfect. We still, as a team, need to limit our turnovers by valuing the basketball, finishing our lay-ups and free throws, and playing every possession with a sense of pride, focus, and urgency,” stated Coach Marino.
Despite this season having its ups and downs, their main focus and team goals have been crystal clear. “Our first goal is to win the GBL Large, the second goal is to qualify for the MIAA State Basketball Tournament, and the ultimate goal is to win an MIAA State Championship,” stressed Coach Marino.
With their good collaboration and clear vision, the Malden High Girls Varsity Basketball Team is ready for an excellent season, hopefully heading to the GBL Championship.
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