With returning talent aplenty, Terra Nova looks for a girls’ basketball title this year. Twelve players, including All-league senior Arianna Sheehy, return.
Sheehy, who led the league in scoring last season, will team with backcourt partner sophomore Tia Peacock to give the Tigers up-tempo power.
Tack on sharpshooter Morgan Vurek, post enforcer Malia Kolomatangi, defensive whiz Virginia Figueroa, and forward Hailey Stenback, Terra Nova is poised to make a run.
“Our team will have a lot of moving parts this year. Developing team chemistry will be the ingredients of success for us,” said Coach Kareem Summerville.
The Tigers certainly have the fire power to raise the bar. It lost just two starters and one key reserve from last year’s team.
“The last two seasons have proven to be a building block,” added Summerville. “What has changed in those two years? It’s chemistry, trust and willigness to work harder to achieve the ultimate goal of winning a league championship and a Central Coast Section title.”
Freshmen Kamri Barne, a point guard and Venus Pascua at small forward are expected to see considerable amount of playing time. Barnes has the ability to make an immediate positive impact and Pascua is a deadly threat from behind the arc. Both players are legitimate scoring options. Summerville is looking forward to seeing how good both players are by playoff time.
The Tigers open the season this week playing in the Fremont tournament. Next week the Lady Tigers will host the annual Jim Soden tournament.
Summerville’s brother, Kawann, is looking for several of his junior varsity players to have breakout years for the JV team, especially sophomore Diana Bumagat.
“The MVP from last year’s team provides high energy and the ability to play both ends of the floor,” said Summerville, referring to Bumagat. “With the loss of some key players not returning or moving up the varsity level, her leadership will be vital for our success.”
Sophomore Amanda Kaesler will be asked to do more scoring this season and be more involved. Kaesler had a great summer playing and getting varsity experience.
The addition of sophomore Tiona Peacock should provide some needed help on the defensive end of the court with Lauren Arriola moving up the varsity. Sophomore Marissa Ackroyd and freshman Rena Foster, both playing the post, should provide solid inside presence. Jenika McClay and Carisha Navarra provide depth and experience.
Freshman guard Aira DeVera could be a threat behind the arc with her ability to get to the basket.
This week the young Tigers open the season playing in the Mountain View JV tournament.
