Although the girls basketball team struggled last season, they are ready to bounce back this year.

“Last season was a challenging year,” said Head Coach Ariel Gonzalez, “[But we’re] building a new program and culture, and anything that’s worthwhile takes time.”

This season, Gonzalez is entering his second year as head coach and plans to, “omprove our overall record, improve effort and intensity from all of the players from number 1-13.” He has a very positive outlook on the season and wants to focus on the players’ work ethics.

As far as how the season and preparations are going, Gonzalez said: “We are off to a good start. We have a long way to go, but we have the pieces, talent, skill and experience.”

“We have a few new players on the team,” Gonzalez added. “We have a freshman coming to look out for — Gabby Barnes-Thomas — as well as several returning players, including Victoria Patrick.

Patrick said she has high hopes for the season

“I think last season was a big transition year for us and was more about learning to work with each other and our new coaching staff,” she said. “I plan to lead the team this year by consistently setting a good example on and off the court. I think it is very important for me to keep my team calm and focused during practices and games.” 

Barnes-Thomas is also set to be a key player for the next four years.

“I would like to lead my team in scoring and have a positive attitude,” she said. 

She is now adjusting to a new position, but said she thinks her coach has her best interests in mind.

“I have been working on ball handling, because I was told I was going to play the [small forward] instead of the position I normally would play,” Barnes-Thomas said. 

The Titans’ season looks very promising. Make sure to stop by to support our girls basketball team this winter.