Girls, boys Middle School basketball teams have strong seasons

The refurbished Roselle Park Middle School hardwood was christened this winter by two solid seasons. 

The girls’ basketball team had a great 2022 season with a final record of 9-1, lead by eight 8th graders.

The leading scorer for the Panthers was Sidney Smith, who averaged 24 points per game and 10 steals a game. Smith had a season-high 48 points in one game this season. 

Ella Royster was second in scoring with an average of 6 points per game. Hannah Djokic averaged 5 points a game, and Madelyn Hemenway and Maddie Wilkes both averaged 3 points per game. Royster, Wilkes, and Jesenia Rodriguez were the leading rebounders of the team. 

All of the girls Middle School Panthers were tenacious on defense each game. They held opponents to an average of 20 points while scoring an average of 48 points per game.

“My goal for the girls this season was for them to learn more about the game, improve their skills, work hard every day, and have fun,” said Staci Hartzler, head coach. “I feel like the girls achieved all of that. I couldn’t be more proud of the effort they gave me this season.”

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The middle school boys team worked to enjoy an 8-4 campaign.

The leading scorer was Jayden Holman, who averaged 23.2 points, 7.2 assists, and 7.7 rebounds per game.

Joshua Moncayo and Anthony Damiano played well all season and were great contributors to the team’s success, averaging 8 and 7.3 points per game, respectively.

Head Coach Yuri Brutus said each of the 15 boys (12 8th graders) on the roster came to practice every day, ready to work hard and improve their basketball skills.

“These boys have been a true representation of what it means to have Panther pride!” said Brutus. “The hard work and dedication that these boys displayed really showed every time they stepped out on the court. The boys have shown this season their ability to work hard and compete at a high level. I am very proud of the success they have had through the season.”

Both coaches wished the eighth graders the best of luck next year in high school.