By Sydney Case, Staff Writer
The River Hill High School girls basketball team is proving that heart, resilience, and unity can carry a team through even the toughest of seasons. After the graduation of five seniors, including Dylan Watson, the Howard County Player of the Year, the Hawks entered the year facing a phase of rebuilding.
The departure of Watson and the other seniors left a noticeable gap on the court. However, instead of dwelling on what was lost, the Hawks focused on making something new. Younger players were asked to step into unfamiliar roles, seniors took on added leadership responsibilities, and the team as a whole committed to growing together. Losing that much leadership and talent would challenge any team, but River Hill has refused to let it define them.
Along with the loss of key seniors, the team has battled numerous injuries throughout the season, forcing players into new roles and lineups to constantly adjust. Fiona Devine had three concussions, Charlotte Laraway had a concussion, Coli Henderson tore her ACL, and Gabby Shane sprained her ankle. Despite these setbacks, the Hawks have continued to compete with intensity and determination every time they step on the court.
Senior captain Grace Mathews has taken pride in helping guide the younger players during this transition year. “Losing so many seniors was hard, but this team has so much heart,” Mathews shared. “No matter the score or who’s injured, we keep fighting. I couldn’t be prouder of how we’ve stayed together.”
One of the team’s most impressive performances came in a tightly contested 40-37 game against Atholton High School. In a matchup that came down to the final minutes, River Hill matched Atholton’s intensity possession by possession. The Hawk’s defensive pressure, communication, and composure reflected how far the team has come, even in the face of a narrow loss.
Sophomore Olivia Creighton explained that sense of unity. “Every game is about proving to ourselves that we belong here,” she said. “We’ve grown so much, and even through the struggles, we’re becoming stronger as a team.”
River Hill followed that performance with a standout 31-19 victory against City College. The game highlighted the Hawk’s defensive strength and ability to play together as a unit. Holding an opponent under 20 points demonstrated not only their discipline but also their willingness to do the hard work that doesn’t always show up in scores.
Sophomore Fiona Devine emphasized the team’s mindset through the challenges. “We’ve been through a lot this season, but we never use it as an excuse. Everyone just steps up and gives everything they have for each other,” Devine said.
While the record may not tell the full story, River Hill’s season has been defined by effort, growth, and resilience. Through losses, injuries, and the departure of standout seniors, the Hawks continue to compete with pride, demonstrating that the future of River Hills girls basketball remains bright.