Girls’ basketball team members have strong memories about being regional champions last year. “Taylor Young’s buzzer beater shot against Morton in our Sectional game was a highlight,” said Stef Baker, who plays post. They are setting goals to reach a similar successful season.

Losing the Sectional game to Morton last year was tough on everyone. “If we could beat any team this year, it would be Morton. We came so close to beating them last year, so it would be nice to finally pull off a win,” Baker added.

Seniors and captains always have younger players looking up to them. “I always try to set a good example for the younger girls, on and off the court,” said Baker.

Many players have people who have inspired them or have someone they especially respect. Baker said that Brenna Saline, a starting guard last year, was one that she respects.

Few seniors have played together before throughout their high school or junior high years. Taylor Young, Kelly Ricketts, Stef Baker, and Rachel Pendry have played together before when they were younger. “We’ve played together since YMCA leagues,” said Baker. Young has played point guard all four years. Ricketts has played post for all four years. Pendry has played post for all four years.

The players agree that basketball home games are especially exciting because so many fans come to cheer them on. “The student section really pumps us up for home games,” said Baker. “The most memorable moment was running out in front of 2,200 screaming fans at our sectional game on our home floor.”

Team is the key word in basketball. It takes a lot of teamwork and effort to win a game.

“To me, team means working together. Our team is always helping each other whether it be on or off the court and we accomplish a lot because we know what it takes to be successful,” said Baker.

The GHS girls’ varsity basketball team has been successful for many years and is hoping to keep the success rising.

Class of ‘08 seniors Baker, Ricketts, Young , Pendry, and Hinkle plan to contribute their skills to continue that tradition of success.