For the early part of the season, we’re going to be doing posts focusing on different schools in our continuous effort to fill your girls basketball appetite. On the board now…Hamilton.
Last year’s Class C juggernaut Haldane should be bumped aside by Hamilton this season after the Blue Devils lost its top player in Liz Milner (who is currently playing for Division I Fordham), while the Red Raiders return its top scorer in junior Maia Hood. As an exciting player to watch, Hood averaged 19 points and 10 rebounds per game last season and is surrounded by a core of talent at Hamilton.
How last season ended: Hamilton lost to Haldane in the Class C championship game at the Westchester County Center and will be looking to avenge its loss this year.
Top player lost to graduation: Ashley Morris.
Top returning players: Maia Hood leads the pack and is a player who has it all with her speed, dribbling skill set, and ability to hit both mid-range and long-range jumpers. In addition to that, she can also play the post. Senior Amani Lightbourne, who was the team’s second leading scorer averaging 11 points per game last season, also returns and will run the point for Hamilton this year.
Biggest strength: Hamilton plays together as a team and exhibits tough defense. The Red Raiders will be given an additional defensive lift from junior Jasmine Robinson, who is a transfer from Ursuline.
Biggest concern: Hamilton needs to eliminate the unnecessary turnovers, which proved very costly for the Red Raiders last year.
Top rival: Haldane and Blind Brook.
Host tournament: Hamilton will host the Elmsford Classic which will be held from Dec. 8 – Dec. 10. The first round matchups will be Pleasantville vs. Woodlands on Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. and Port Chester will face Hamilton on Dec. 9 at 5 p.m. The consolation will be held on Dec. 10 at 1 p.m. and the championship will be held at 5 p.m.
