Lady Hornets Top Truman in Nail-Biter
The Lady Hornets play defense against Truman. Photo credit: Cierra Vialva
By CIERRA VIALVA
The girls’ basketball team squeaked out a 52-50 win in their first home game December 13 to halt a two game losing streak to start the season. The girls came in hopeful for a win, but they also knew that their opponent, Harry S. Truman High School, was an amazing team.
“I think it’s going to be a difficult game,” said center Mary Dolgin ’21 before the game against Truman. “But if we work together and don’t give up offensively or defensively, I have confidence that we will do great.”
As the players began to stretch before the game, eager friends and family filled the gym, shouting, “Let’s Go, Midwood!”
As the game was about to begin, players began to crowd around coach Michael Moore in a circle for the pre-game pep talks.
“Ladies, many of your peers and loved ones are here tonight to support us,” said Mr. Moore. “Go out and play with a great deal of effort and passion. Believe in yourself, your teammates, and the process.’’
“Since the beginning of their season, I have been to every single game,” said Abagail Douglass ’22. “I just love coming to see the girls play and compete. I feel this competition is going to be amazing.”
In the first quarter, Midwood led 14-12, the crowd was all rallied up with excitement, and the cheerleaders began to cheer them on with words of encouragement.
“I absolutely love the cheerleading team,” said spectator Mitchell Sanchez ’22. “I love how they all come together and cheer the team on.”
Later in the first half, the girls were still in control, 28-22.
“I didn’t think Midwood was going to be scoring so many shots,” said Shakira Bengein ’21. “They played against this school before and lost.’’
As the game proceeded to the third quarter, Midwood continued to prove the doubters wrong. With a score of 48-42, the girls felt very confident that they would redeem themselves from last year’s 58-39 loss to Truman.
The important thing is to “be patient,’’ said Brianna Gutierrez ’21. “You have to trust the process and never give up. Your time will come and you just have to keep pushing.”
Near the end of the game, with the score tied 49-49, Dolgin pushed through the opposing team trying to get a shot. With ten seconds left, she passed the ball to point guard Khailyn Waite ’20, who made the shot, giving the Lady Hornets a 51-49 lead that would hold until the final seconds. The crowd jumped up with delight and enthusiasm.
“I can’t believe it,’’ said Bengein. “They might actually win the game.’’
As the game buzzer sounded, both teams took time to relax and talk to their teammates and coaches. While the crowd was cheering and the teams were relaxing, Midwood students began to play a variety of songs, which lead to a mini dance party on the court.
“This is why I love going to games,” said Noelle Dumont ’22. “We get to see things like this happen.’’
Last year, the girls went 11-7 and made the playoffs, getting knocked out by undefeated powerhouse South Shore HS. This year, who knows?
“No one plays sports forever,” said Mr. Moore. “But along the way, the game has many real-life applications to it. Let’s use basketball as a vehicle to drive us towards our journeys in life.’’