The Lincoln Way West Girls Basketball team is looking to carry momentum into the 2024-2025 season after finishing last year with a .500 record of 14-14, including a strong 12-5 run to close out the year.
Head Coach Ryan White reflected on the team’s performance, noting the growth from a slow start to a strong finish.
“Last year we finished 14-14. It was kind of two separate seasons there. We got off to a slow start because we had a lot of young kids, but the thing I’m most proud of is that we finished 12-5 to end the year,” White said. “We lost to Homewood-Flossmoor, who was the number one seed in our sectional, but we had them on the ropes. They made it to the super-sectionals, and I think we gave them their best game on their road to that. If we can start this year where we ended last year, we feel pretty good about things.”
As the 2024-2025 season kicks off, White is optimistic about the potential of this year’s squad. Despite having a relatively young roster, the team brings back experienced players like Junior Molly Finn and Senior Caroline Smith. White believes these returning players can lead the team to success.
“Even though we’re still young, we have some experienced players who have been successful. We think they’ll be one of the better teams we’ve had here at West,” he said.
The team is led by Finn, Smith, and Erin Quigley, each of whom is a multi-sport athlete at the school.
Quigley, known for her athleticism and positive attitude, says her other sports experience helps her on the basketball court.
“I feel like I can bring a lot of positivity and quickness to the court,” Quigley said. “I do three other sports, so I can bring that agility into the game and be a quicker player.”
Smith is expected to be a key defensive presence for the team this season. White described her as a versatile player who impacts the game in multiple ways, even when she isn’t scoring.
“Caroline is one of the few players who can impact a game in so many ways without scoring,” White said. “She’ll be our all-time leading shot blocker. She’s had multiple double-digit rebounds and games where she’s scored points, but she doesn’t have to score to be a great impact. She’s our best defender and can guard anyone on the floor when we need it.”
Finn, known for her court awareness and leadership, will also be a focal point for the offense.
“I think I’m very communicative on the court,” Finn said. “If players are in the wrong spot, I help them get to the right spot. I look to score, but if there’s a better option, I’ll pass it. I feel like I’m always hustling.”
With strong leadership from Finn, Smith, and Quigley, along with Coach White’s guidance, the Lincoln Way West girls basketball team is poised for a successful season.