By NICK PREGIBON
Beakon Staff Writer
WARREN — The women’s basketball team is looking to have another strong season. After falling to 0-4 in many hardfought games, the Cardinals flew into Warren Harding (3-1) on the road and won 52-41. The Cardinals brought energy into the game with their full-court press, creating many turnovers. Leading the charge was Sophia Diorio with 17 points, followed by Samantha Rotunno with 15 points.
Warren Harding is a bigger team compared to Mooney. Knowing this matchup, the Cardinals used their speed and shooting to outlast the Raiders. Both teams were neck and neck in the first half, and the cardinals soared out of the gate in the third quarter. A key was switching to a more aggressive full court press where many turnovers were created, completely changing the game.
This fast and aggressive Mooney team is looking to build off this win. They travel to Canton Central Catholic on December 21st to take on the Crusaders. This win proves that these ladies are ready for business as they are sprouting from the nest. Their speed and shooting is a strength that many opponents will fear in these upcoming games. This win is the Cards their first win of the season as they improve to 1-4.
Up to the win, the team has been working very diligently this season, playing a difficult schedule. Already, they have played two notable teams: West Branch and Salem. The other two teams they have played are Chaney and Warren JFK. Against Chaney and JFK, the cards lost by no more than three points.
Mooney is returning three starters, Sophia Diorio, Talecia Huff, and Samantha Rotunno. Behind these three starters, this team is still relatively young. Many players getting time are sophomores and juniors who are looking to improve from last year. With a young, inexperienced squad, many growing pains will be encountered, but the lady cards remain optimistic.
“One of our weaknesses is that we are younger. Since we are younger, our basketball IQ is behind, but that will fix itself over time. Also we are made up of good athletes who want to play hard.” Diorio said.
What differs with the Lady Cardinals this year compared to last season is their speed of play and work ethic. These girls love to play both sides of the court, pushing the ball in transition, and playing full court pressure defense to speed opponents up. In the Lady Card’s game against JFK, their effort was undoubtedly there, with senior point guard Sophia Diorio notching a 16 point triple-double with 10 steals, and 13 rebounds.
“We have better team Chemistry. We have a faster and more athletic group this year, but on the down side we are smaller. We are trying to use our speed instead of using the post like we did last year.” Diorio said.
Along with this new playstyle, the Lady Cards believe they have improved after every game even though their record may not show it. Senior leader Dayna Hughes has played a great impact on and off the court keeping the team together and using her experience to push her teammates everyday in practice and on gameday.
“We like to work hard and also have fun at the same time. This year we have more effort and skill, which is helping us play more like a team.” Hughes said.
The Lady Cards are looking to start a win streak against Canton Central Catholic (2-3) Tuesday Dec. 21.