The girls basketball season has started off with nothing but hard work, dedication, and commitment from the team. Each player brings unique talent both on and off the court. With half a season left, the girls are making a mark to have this season be one to remember. 

Entering her last year at Parkway Central, senior Sadie Levy wants to leave everything on the court, and make this year one to remember. As of Jan. 23, Levy’s accomplishments include 363 steals, 984 points, and 156 steals in her career. In addition, she had the most steals in a single season (169) and most three pointers (9) in a game, both which she accomplished her junior year. 

“I want to make sure to get the most out of every minute and every game,” Levy said. “Last year I felt like we had some moments where we backed down and gave up, and I want to change that this year.”

Junior Rachel Wahl has been working hard throughout the season, along with her teammates, to perform at their greatest potential. 

“Everyone is putting in a ton of effort and you can definitely see that during games.” Wahl said. 

Despite not starting the way they wanted, the team has improved immensely and have put in the work to make this season count, and Coach Paul Hussman has seen the dedication his players have. 

“There is a consistent sense of effort and attitude which we didn’t have last year,” Hussman said. “We struggle at times from a basketball standpoint but not from an effort or attitude standpoint.”

Co-captain Kiera Gravely has taken on the responsibility of being a leader for the team, as she enters her senior year. 

“It feels stressful but in a good way to be captain,” Gravely said. “Not only does it push me to be better and keep in check with myself, but I feel I am a role model for the other girls on the team.”

Levy has also taken on the role of being a co-captain, and tries her best to help her team out in any way she can. 

“As a captain I feel like it is my responsibility to make sure everyone is working the hardest they can and having a good attitude,” Levy said. “I enjoy being a captain and feel like people look up to me.”

As a senior, Levy is reflecting on her time as a basketball player at school, and the lasting legacy she will have on the program. 

“I want to accomplish having a great last season and just feeling proud of myself to end my basketball season on a high note,” Levy said. 

Coach Hussman understands the importance of letting this program not be all about basketball, but a community for the girls to deeply connect. 

“I want this to be an outlet for the girls to be themselves and come together.” Hussman said. 

Despite it being senior Rachel Vance’s first year playing basketball at Central, she has shown to be a dedicated and hardworking player. Vance transferred to Central for the second semester of her junior year, but played basketball at her previous school in Utah. 

“I want to build up my teammates and play with a positive mindset and maintain that throughout the season,” Vance said. 

Sophomore Maddie Schaefer is a key to the team’s success, as she supports her teammates and takes on an important role to help the program. 

“Since our chemistry is so good, we all just click and you can see that on the court,” Schaefer said. “The energy on the team is amazing and we all love being around each other.”

In the end, Gravely will remember these girls that became her sisters because of the program and home it has created. 

“The environment is so welcoming and inviting,” Gravely said. “After every mistake my teammates are there to cheer me on because they feel like family.”

The next home game is Jan. 28 against Parkway North.