With only a handful of practices under their belt and facing an unknown opponent, the coaching staff was not sure what to expect from our first contest of the year. Within minutes of the opening tip, though, the team's palpable energy (and, in all likelihood, an excitement that we were finally competing again) fueled the entire team.
Kailyn Shepherd '19 seemed nearly unstoppable offensively, registering 19 points in the first half alone. Sister and newcomer Ryan Shepherd '21 not only scored her first points as a high school athlete, but also proved herself a formidable defender against one of the top shooters in the DMV. Seniors Maya Goree '18 and Lexi Weger '18 combined for three triples in the first 16 minutes, demonstrating both poise and experience as four-year members of the program. At the half, EHS led by a comfortable 46-16 margin.
In the final 16 minutes of play, Episcopal showcased its selflessness and genuine excitement for the successes of others. Mary Ives Giblin '19 was at the helm of the offense and created opportunities for her teammates throughout the entire half. Nora Huffines '20 brought a calming presence to the backcourt, while newcomer Catie Wood '19 netted her first bucket in a varsity game. Also adding depth to the team's rotation were newcomers Eleanor Winants '18 and Anna Morris '20, both of whom contributed positive statistics in the contest. At the final buzzer, EHS was on the winning end of a lopsided 52-23 victory and had punched their ticket for the championship game Wednesday evening.