The High Point High School Wildcats’ girls’ basketball team wrapped up their season with an impressive overall record of 17-9, showcasing significant growth and confidence throughout the year. Under the guidance of head coach Gary Ruban, the team experienced pivotal moments that helped them build momentum, culminating in a strong performance in the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 1, Group 2 tournament.
Coach Ruban highlighted a key victory on February 5 against North Warren, describing it as a turning point for the Wildcats. “It came after a loss and also set us up for a big winning streak down the stretch,” Ruban noted. This victory marked the beginning of a period in which the team played its best basketball, setting a confident tone leading into the state tournament.
In the first round of the NJSIAA tournament on February 26, the Wildcats delivered a commanding performance, defeating Passaic Valley with a score of 50-19. During this match, Rhiannon Conover emerged as a standout player, contributing a game-high 15 points. Ruban expressed that the confidence exhibited by the team during the latter part of the season was unmatched in his tenure.
Throughout the season, strong leadership played a crucial role in the Wildcats’ success. Ruban praised Kennedy Shepherd for her behind-the-scenes leadership, highlighting her organizational skills during events like the Pretty in Pink game and youth clinics. “She was the voice of reason for her teammates,” he stated, emphasizing her ability to maintain focus during challenging times.
Another key leader, Claire Sieminski, inspired her teammates with her work ethic and dedication. Ruban remarked, “Her relentless approach to winning was a key factor in the leadership she provided.” Additionally, players such as Daphne Mathews and Addison Yanoff showed consistent improvement throughout the season, contributing significantly during games.
Ruban noted that Conover’s journey from a junior varsity player to a reliable scoring option exemplified the team’s development. “She went from a JV player to a reliable scoring option down the stretch,” he explained. Conover’s patience and hard work earned her a vital role as the season progressed.
The Wildcats finished third in the competitive Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Freedom Division with a record of 5-5. Following their victory over Passaic Valley, they faced Jefferson in the sectional quarterfinals, where their season ultimately came to an end.
Ruban paid tribute to the contributions of senior Brooke Wagner, who proved to be a dominant force over the past three years. With a remarkable total of 161 blocked shots, Wagner averaged just over six blocks per game, showcasing her defensive prowess. Coach Ruban also highlighted Grace Elston, who was instrumental as a three-point shooter, leading to numerous victories for the team over the last two seasons.
The Wildcats’ strong performance this season reflects not only their skill on the court but also the resilience and leadership that defined their journey. As they look forward to the next season, the foundation built during this campaign promises a bright future for High Point High School’s girls’ basketball program.
