Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball Teams Crowned MAPL Champions

Girls’ Basketball
Over the past weekend, the girls’ varsity basketball team traveled to Hun, looking for another shot to become the Mid-Atlantic Prep League champions.

The first challenge unfolded against Pennington. The girls delivered an exceptional performance, with multiple players recording double digits. Kennedy Henry ’25 had a total of 22 points, four rebounds, four assists and three steals. Zeynep Ozel ’24 tallied 18 points, three assists, four rebounds and three steals. Elizabeth Archer ’24 recorded 16 points, seven rebounds and one assist, helping the Bucs to an impressive 81-56 victory and securing their spot in the championship round.

Entering the championship match against Mercersburg, the girls were faced with tough competition, but they rose to the occasion and had an outstanding game, showcasing resilience and skill. Kennedy totaled another 35 points, 12 rebounds and six steals, while Zeynep and Elizabeth both had double-digit performances. Priyanka Ponnam ’26 also had a great game, recording 13 points, 13 rebounds, five assists, two steals and a block. After the final buzzer, the team claimed their 13th consecutive MAPL championship trophy, outscoring Mercersburg Academy 95-63.

“Our MAPL tournament performance was an amazing start to our championship season,” said Greg Rosnick, head girls’ basketball coach. “With one more championship still to play for, we're excited to use this weekend as a springboard to more wins. We played with fantastic pace and unselfishness all weekend and it was incredible to see the contributions we got from up and down the roster.”

The Bucs are now 19-3, looking to continue their winning streak on the road against Putnam Science Academy on Wednesday, February 14, at 5:30 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball
Much like the girls’ team, the boys’ varsity basketball team also traveled to Hun, looking for a chance to take home the Mid-Atlantic Prep League championship for a sixth straight year. 

Their first challenge unfolded against Pennington on Saturday. Jayden Williams ’24 led the offensive, contributing 17 points along with three rebounds, three assists, and shooting 100% from the free throw line. Deron Rippey ’26 and Lukas Schmid ’24 also had great double-digit performances, with ten other players contributing points as well to secure their 88-48 win over Pennington, sending the Bucs to the championship matchup.

On Championship Sunday, the Bucs took on Hill in a head-to-head battle for the MAPL championship title. After a closely contested first half ended with a score of 23-16, the boys looked to close out the game in the second. Jack Bailey ’25 and Eric Ihekwaba ’24 both recorded double-digit performances, scoring 13 points each. Eric also had seven rebounds, one assist and a steal. These efforts culminated in a 49-33 victory for the Bucs, bringing the MAPL trophy back home to the hilltop. 

After the championship game, head coach Joe Mantegna had a few words to say about the team and their plans for the state tournament, saying, “It is nice to see a committed group of young men come together and play connected basketball on our biggest stage. Jayden William's leadership was palpable, and our balanced offensive attack was on full display. There is still more work to be done with the New Jersey state prep A tournament coming down the road.” 

After the championship victory, the boys are currently at 21-5 on the season and will look for another win at home against Covenant College Prep on Wednesday, February 14, at 6:00 p.m.