Central Bucks West Girls' Basketball Preview

CENTRAL BUCKS WEST GIRLS’ BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Coach:  Zachary Sibel (2nd year)

Assistant coaches: Jen Fabian, Dave Gordon, Colleen Coleman

Last year’s record: 25-5 overall, SOL Continental Champion, SOL Tournament Champion, District 1 Champion

Notable losses: Maddie Burke (Penn State WBB), Olivia Irons, Jessica Broskey, Maddy McGarry (Rollins University Lacrosse)

Key returners:  Paige Gilbert (SR- William and Mary Lax commit), Emily Spratt (JR G), Anna Blue (SR G), Maggie McCusker (SR G)

Others to watch: Katie Finnan (SOPH G) is new to the squad this year; she brings a quick burst and adds to the athleticism and toughness of this group. Ava Longo (SOPH F) will look to add to our length and is coming off a fantastic soccer season and some varsity hoops experience last year. Tai Henkels (SOPH G) and Nia Perry (SOPH G) will both got some varsity experience as well and will add to our young backcourt. Freshman Guards Gabby Senior and Alexis Castro have both made names for themselves this preseason.

Strengths/Question Marks:   “It is never easy losing a group of seniors like we had last year (Liv, Maddy, Maddie, and Jess). Their absence and the absence of the all-around threat of Maddie Burke leaves some openings to be filled by other players. Yet, this season there are a number of players who are excited for the opportunity to lead in the same way that they did. We bring back two all-league players and a group of seniors who have been true leaders throughout the entirety of this pandemic. The excitement of the District Championship has created a hunger for players to work hard to get back there with evolved roles.”

Outlook:  “We are excited to embrace the new challenges of this wacky year. The offseason (though more individual this year with team shutdowns) has proven that this group of girls has the chance to be really special. Paige Gilbert, Maggie McCusker, Emily Spratt, and Anna Blue all bring experience to the court- -all in larger roles than before. This year will be about blending youth/new faces with experience and creating that strong team chemistry. Our goals of postseason runs remain the same as we are excited to compete again together.”

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