The University High girls’ basketball team showcased their strength on January 3, 2023, achieving their tenth victory of the season with a commanding 67-25 win over Laurel Highlands. The match took place on the heels of a crucial Senior Night, where the Hawks aimed to maintain momentum before a significant rematch against their rivals from Morgantown scheduled for Thursday.
Bri Fox, the standout guard and team leader, played a pivotal role in the game, scoring 21 points and contributing across multiple statistical categories. Coach Sammy Lusk praised Fox’s impact, stating, “She’s our motor, the engine that makes us go.” His comments reflect Fox’s all-around game and her ability to lead both on and off the court.
From the outset, the Hawks dominated, jumping to a 19-0 lead in the first quarter. Their defensive tenacity and offensive execution set the tone for the game, allowing them to maintain control throughout. By halftime, University High held a commanding 38-3 advantage, showcasing their ability to stay focused and execute their game plan effectively.
Fox, who was a second-team All-State selection the previous year, expressed her joy about the Senior Night victory, stating, “It was great to be out there with the same girls I’ve been playing with since I started. Our chemistry on this team is really good right now.” This chemistry, according to Fox, stems from a clear understanding of roles and a commitment to playing hard for one another.
The game also marked a significant moment for Fox as she reflected on her growth over her three years as a starter. “Confidence, for sure,” she noted, emphasizing her development in knowing when to make plays. Her ability to adapt and maintain a positive mindset, even after missed shots, has been crucial to her performance and the team’s success.
Lusk highlighted Fox’s competitive spirit, saying, “Bri absolutely detests losing.” Her leadership style pushes her teammates to be accountable, fostering a culture of unselfish play. This was evident in the Hawks’ execution during the game, where they demonstrated precision and focus despite their early lead.
Looking ahead, Fox is focused on the upcoming rematch against Morgantown, a team that previously defeated the Hawks 70-31 earlier in the season. “We are much better at pushing through adversity now,” she said. Her confidence is palpable as she believes that if the Hawks can maintain composure and play to their potential, they have a strong chance against any opponent.
As the Hawks prepare for their next challenge, their performance against Laurel Highlands stands as a testament to their growth. With a strong team dynamic and individual contributions, University High is poised for continued success as the season progresses.
The box score from the game reflects the dominance of the Hawks:
– **Laurel Highlands**: 0 3 9 13 – 25
– **University High**: 19 19 16 13 – 67
Key individual performances include:
– For Laurel Highlands: Schwertfeger (14 points), Price (7 points).
– For University High: Fox (21 points), Cox (14 points), Bishoff (10 points).
With the rematch against Morgantown just days away, the Hawks will aim to build on this victory and continue their strong performance in the season.
