After an evenly matched battle against Francis Howell Central on Dec. 5 the varsity girls basketball team lost in a nailbiter 46-40. Junior guard Lani Thompson had 15 points against Francis Howell Central. Also senior guard Mia Patterson and sophomore forward Linnea Johansen each individually scored 8 points during the hard-fought game.

This season the Patriot varsity girls basketball program shows a lot of potential for young athletes who are willing to step up on the court.

The varsity girls team is led by Head Coach Thomas Williams.

“I can’t see into the future for this season, but if our team wins the world we will go intergalactic,” said Williams.

Having only seven varsity players this season, two being seniors, the team is looking for more wins to even out the record which currently stands at 1-3, at press time.

“We always play our best basketball at the end of the season. Our goal is to work hard and improve in every game and practice,” said Patterson.

At press time the current scoring leader is Thompson. Thompson so far this season has 69 points, is 24-36 on field goals and is a 60 percent shooter from the three-point line. Patterson is second in scoring with 34 points, and she is 10-18 on field goals and is 71 percent from the three-point line.

“Kirkwood is going to be one of the hardest opponents we will face this season. They are a very good team and they are the defending state champs,” said senior Sydney Gaughan. The Patriots face the Pioneers on Jan. 3 at home.

“Our team’s greatest strength this season has to be our work ethic. We work very well together in practices and games,” said Williams.

The girls hope to go far this season and look to gain a spot for this seasons playoffs, according to Patterson.

“The hopes are high for the season, we really work well as a team. Our greatest threat is we pass the ball well and create play opportunities,” said Patterson.

The Patriots face Fort Zumwalt West tonight away at 7 p.m.  and hope to scoop up a well-deserved win in the record books.