The West Ranch Girls’ Basketball team finished an impressive season with a record of 19 wins and 9 losses. The team has improved tremendously throughout the season, especially with their main focus on defensive technique.
Prior to the official start of the season, the team competed in multiple tournaments. These tournaments were held

primarily over the Thanksgiving and winter breaks, demonstrating the team’s dedication. The effort was worth it in the long run when the team won both of their pre-season tournaments.
Senior team captains Maia Garrison, Taleen Kartalian and Sophia Molina all expressed how the development on defense since the start of the season had contributed to the team’s accomplishments. Kartalian highlighted the team’s improved awareness on the court and explained, “We’re in the right spots more often than we were before.”
The team’s dedication to defense kept the opposing teams from scoring an average of 35 points per game. Coach Paul Gross added throughout the year that the team had progressed into “an elite defensive team.”

Although the Wildcats have had excellent success on defense this past season, the team struggled to make adjustments to the different coverages they encountered. The team faced challenges adjusting to both zone defenses and pressure man-to-man defenses throughout the season. “What makes a difference between us winning and losing is if we hit shots and protect the ball,” Coach Gross clarified.
The Wildcats offensive technique continuously improved throughout the season. Garrison said the team has become more effective against man-to-man defense, noting, “Our offense against man has gotten better. We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. So we know how to read each other better.” With their explosive offense, the team scored an average of 50 points per game.
But what really made all the difference for the team to have such a dominating season was their grit, effort and hard work all around. “I feel like every team we’ve played, we’re faster than them,” Molina described. “We play with high intensity. We’re always diving to get the loose balls. We always hustle to get the next play, and we always put back on defense. We’re not afraid to dive, and we’re not scared to get hurt.” Their determination is a quality that defines the wildcat spirit.

In the end, our Girls Basketball Wildcats placed 5th in the Foothill league. With a successful 2026 season, the Wildcats are excited and looking forward to the improvement they can make next year! Make sure you come out and support our Girls’ Basketball team!