By Tom Nader

Publisher and Editor

HEAD COACH

Carl Singer

8th year

82-83 career record

THE TEAM

Coaching Staff: Ira Campbell, varsity assistant; Scott Clark, varsity assistant; Bryan Bedford, varsity assistant; Julie Taylor, varsity assistant.

2021-22 Record: 18-7 overall; 10-4 Metro Athletic Conference; Sectional champions.

Returning Letterwinners (7): Reanna Barzal, sr.; Ella Kassan, jr.; Maddy Hajec, jr.; Maiya Taylor, jr.; Cara Tiller, jr.; Naomi Benson, soph.; Sydney Abbuhl, soph.

Letterwinners Lost (6): Kennedy Danna, Mallory Rice, Mariah Embry, Megan Szczesinski, Savanna Estes, Rallyn States.

SEASON OUTLOOK

The Rockets’ backcourt graduated, three starting guards that provided a lot of scoring, but the cupboard is not bare since the team returns its two leading scorers: Naomi Benson (14 ppg) and Ella Kassan (10 ppg).

“We have some experienced juniors coming back that are capable of scoring in different ways and some younger players that are skilled enough that they will be able to contribute as well,” Singer said.

“Overall, we are excited to see our experience mix with our youth, and we think we have capable scorers.”

GUARDS

The team will introduce a group of new faces here, but they are not short on athleticism or skill.

Cara Tiller battled through injuries last year, but is healthy now.

“She handles the ball well and can knock down shots from the perimeter,” Singer said.

Maddy Hajec was the first guard off the bench last year and is a solid defender. 

“She makes the right play on both ends of the floor.”

Maiya Taylor is very athletic and versatile.

Sydney Abbuhl grew as a player last year on JV and began to earn varsity minutes by the end of the season.

Carlee Bedford, a freshman, is another versatile player with length and athleticism.

“Carlee is solid in all facets of the game and has proven that she is ready to make an impact,” Singer said.

Olivia Johnson-Wilson is a true point guard and can make plays on offense and defense. She is another freshman that is already proving that she could contribute.

FORWARDS

Reanne Barzal, who is the team’s only senior, can always be counted on to be the hardest-working player in the gym, according to Singer.

“She is a great leader for our team,” the Rockets’ coach said.

Ella Kassan had a breakout season last year, averaging 10 points and 7 rebounds per game.

Naomi Benson entered her freshman season with high expectations and she meet them. She averaged 14 points and 12 rebounds per game.

“She is primed for an even better season this year, and she will get better with every game she plays,” Singer said.

WHAT MAKES THIS TEAM SPECIAL

“We feel that the individuals on this team have basketball very high on their priority list,” Singer said. “With so many players passionate about the game, they are driving each other to improve daily.”

UNDERCLASSMEN TO WATCH

Naomi Benson, soph.; Sydney Abbuhl, soph.; Carlee Bedford, fresh.; Olivia Johnson-Wilson, fresh.

TEAM MOTTO

No excuses, play harder.

CAUSE FOR CONCERN

“While we are young on paper, we have a lot of players that work hard on their game and have put in more basketball hours than a lot of players,” Singer said. “However, it will be a challenge that many of our players have not had the opportunity to play together a lot, so we will be working to get on the same page.”

LEAGUE OUTLOOK

“Norton is still sitting at the top until somebody is able to beat them,” Singer said. “We believe that we will have the opportunity to contend and are also aware Woodridge brings a lot of talent back.”