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Vivian Hapka ’26 gets the tip to start the game off. Protecting the ball while also staying focused to pass the ball to a teammate.
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Theresa Bell ’26 and Hadyn Espinoza ’26 defend the ball as cedar ridge attacks them. Warriors stay focused to get the ball and score.
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The Westwood Girls Varsity basketball team gathers during a timeout to discuss their next play. Players listen closely and encourage one another, showing strong teamwork. The groups determination to finish the game strong.
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Evelyn Bell ’27 stays alert on defense as the opposing team looks to advance the ball. Communication and quick movements help them guard their opponents closely. The energy on the court reflects both teams focus and drive to win.
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Vivian Hapka ’26 jumps high to take a shot while surrounded by defenders. The team shows strong effort under the basket, fighting for every rebound. Their determination highlights the intensity of the game as the crowd watches.
Starting off the season, the Westwood girls varsity basketball team faced off against the Cedar Ridge Raiders in a tough 34-24 loss on Friday, Nov. 7. Despite a strong defensive effort and moments of promising chemistry, the Warriors couldn’t quite overcome their early struggles on offense.
“We were just struggling with team chemistry,” Athena Skevofilax ‘26 said. “It was hard for us to get on. If you see someone who’s open, pass to them. If you try to run the play exactly how it was written down, that hurts us.”
The game started slowly for Westwood, with Cedar Ridge taking an early lead after several free throws and shots from inside the paint. The Warriors had multiple defensive violations in the first quarter, giving the raiders opportunities at the line. But as the game progressed, the Warriors began finding a smoother rhythm offensively.
“We became more aggressive on defense,” Skevofilax said. “We also started attacking a lot more. Cedar Ridge has good shooters, and that led to us getting beat. [Which] was difficult. We were a little bit rushed with the first game jitters, but we came into the second half a bit more cohesive.”
In the fourth quarter, Westwood’s energy began to shift. The Warriors pushed back with quick drives and tighter defense, narrowing the gap before Cedar Ridge pulled away in the final minute with a string of free throws allowing them to steal the lead 34-24.
“At the end of the game our attack started going downhill because they were in the zone,” Skevofilax said. “In the fourth quarter, we started attacking a lot more. I made some defensive plays that I was proud of.”
Despite the loss, with more games ahead, the team is determined to keep improving both their chemistry. The final quarter showcased some of the Warriors best moments, including: stronger ball movement, more aggressive drives to the basket, and tighter bond with the team.
The Warriors will face off against Copperas Cove at the Warriors home gym on Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m.
