Returning from a four-day weekend due to exams, the George Mason High School varsity girls’ basketball team had little rust to shake off, dispatching Potomac Falls in a non-district contest Monday night, 55-42.
Using a swarming defense — the Mustangs recorded 17 steals — coupled with a strong start to the second half, Mason improved to 11-6 on their campaign.
Downing the AA Panthers served as ample warm-up for the Mustangs with an upcoming home showdown Friday against defending state champion Clarke County, a match that promises to be the biggest home date of the Mustangs' season.
Against Potomac, sophomore Nicole Mitchell led the squad offensively, tallying 13 points and three steals. Seniors Olivia Scott and Bailey Walton each chipped in eight points, while Walton led the perimeter shooting assault, tacking on two from beyond the arc.
Entering the break with a mere four-point lead, Mason finished the third quarter with a 14 point edge, securing the victory. According to Mustang coach Bill Broderick, all 10 players who suited up for the squad contributed to the win.
Senior Rachel Kazman directed the offense, tacking on six assists to go along with three points. Junior Kim Kenny and senior Annie Zweighaft each chipped in seven points, with Kenny controlling the paint, adding seven rebounds and three steals. Zweighaft continued the defensive prowess she has established throughout the season, adding four steals.
Sophomore Chantal Thomas and junior Abby Stroup rounded out the scorers for Mason, adding five and four points respectively.
This Wednesday, the Mustangs traveled to Rappahannock County High School to take on the Panthers in a Bull Run District match-up. Results of the game were not available at press time. However, all roads point to Friday’s home date with Clarke County (12-4, 5-1), who currently stands alone in second place in the district.
Should they down the Eagles, Mason would move into a tie for second place in the district. With a February 6 date at undefeated Strasburg looming as well, the Mustangs hope to make some noise in the district tournament beginning later this month.
