On Thursday, Feb. 13, the Phoenix girls varsity basketball team played the Heritage Pride, resulting in a 68-23 loss. Although the Phoenix were dominated for most of the game, they continued scoring baskets well into the fourth quarter. They continued to score points regardless of the Pride’s ability to defend.

In the first quarter of the game, the Pride started off very strong. The Phoenix was caught off guard, and it showed as they played. Sophomore Simone Diby is one of the star players of the team, but like everyone else, she knew the Phoenix struggled at the start of the game.. “I think the beginning was crucial,” Diby said. “They put a lot of pressure on us, and instead of responding with the same intensity, we backed down.”

In the second and third quarter, the Phoenix were still being dominated, but their effort didn’t cease, and they started getting some points. They began playing well with each other, showcasing the chemistry that they needed. However, their defense was still lacking and while they put up points, the Pride did as well. “One positive moment was when we hit a shot from the wing after great ball movement,” Diby said. “It showed that when we play together, we can create good opportunities.”

At the end of the game in the last quarter, the Pride continued to rack up points which eliminated any shot of a possible comeback. Instead of getting frustrated, they decided to focus on how to improve and do better for the upcoming games. “I try to shift my focus to the next game and think about what I can do to help the team improve,” Diby said. “Staying positive and learning from our mistakes is key to bouncing back.”

Gallery • 5 Photos

Bella Gerardi

Sophomore Simone Diby (2) prepares and waits for teammates to line up for her free throw shot. “I’m disappointed with the way we lost,” Diby said. “I also feel like I could have performed better, and if we had executed differently, the game could have been much closer.”