Gallery • 8 Photos

Photo by Will Richards

Freshman Natalie Fempong takes a three point shot in the second half.

The Naperville North High School varsity girls basketball team defeated Metea Valley High School on Monday, Feb. 13.

The Huskies (20-11) defeated the Mustangs (7-23) with a final score of 61-32.

The Huskies started off strong, forcing multiple turnovers and creating scoring opportunities. After only four and half minutes, the Huskies took the lead with a score of 19-2. The Huskies continued their fast-paced offensive strategy throughout the first half, ending with a score of 41-19. Senior Abigail Homan, who put up 15 points in the first half, expands on how her teammates helped her get set up for success.

“I was open, my teammates had some great passes to me, so I took the shots,’ Homan said.

The Huskies continued to dominate the game in the second half. They held a 20-point lead heading into the fourth quarter with offense and defense working together to put up more points. Senior Peyton Fenner describes the halftime message that propelled the great second half.

“[It was] something we talked about at halftime. Making sure that you’re not only getting position on the girl but you’re actually pushing her back,” Fenner said.

The Huskies played their last game six days ago and had the past week to practice and focus on their team mentality. They were able to improve their previous struggles (like rebounding) in games. Head Coach Erin Colletti explains how the team used their practice time to the fullest.

“We had to increase the intensity. We of course had our boys come to work against [us] who are very physical athletes,” Colletti said.

With this being the first round of the playoffs,if the Huskies lose any of their next games, they will be eliminated from the playoffs and their season will come to an end. Fenner emphasizes the emotional aspect of the playoffs and how they can affect a player.

“First game, it’s always like just wanting to get past it… I think that the emotions will definitely get stronger and stronger as it goes on… emotions are high for everybody,” Fenner said.

The team will play their next game on Thursday, Feb. 16 against Waubonsie Valley High School. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. at Naperville North High School.