Leading by 40 points late in the fourth quarter on Senior Night, the Pomperaug High School girls basketball team (8-8) was still searching for more.
In the final moments of Friday’s matchup against Stratford High School, the team collectively erupted in cheer and chaos when they reached a total of 67 points, before turning the spotlight on the team’s two seniors.
Senior Molly Schneider led the team with a game-high 20 points, while senior Mariella Genovese played a key role in the team’s early 13-0 lead with a handful of blocks and assists.
The Panthers never trailed and hit a combined 10 three-pointers in a sharp-shooting performance.
Following the team’s 67-25 victory, head coach Joe Fortier took a moment to reflect on what the team’s seniors have meant to the program.
“The sad part of high school sports is every year you are going to lose players who have been around the program for a long time,” said Fortier.
He noted the growth and qualities of leadership in players like Schneider, who have been with the program for years.
“Some of those things that they bring to the table carry over to the freshmen and sophomores who look up to them,” said Fortier.
In the win, Abby O’Connell hit four three-pointers, and Chloe Newnham pitched in three of her own long-range shots.
Friday’s lopsided win came a day after the Panthers lost a close bout against New Milford by a score of 48-44.
“We were due for a better shooting night,” added Fortier.
With four regular season games remaining, the Panthers have clinched an appearance in the Southwest Conference postseason tournament.
The Panthers will play their next two games on the road against Masuk (February 9) and Bunnell (February 12) before returning home to finish their regular season against non-league opponent East Lyme and reigning conference champions, Notre Dame Prep.
The Southbury Record 