Broadneck Girls Basketball Displaying Composure in Opening Contests

Last season was a frustrating campaign for the Broadneck girls basketball team. The Bruins struggled to excel in close games and as a result, finished 6-15.

This year has been a different story. Broadneck is 3-0, racking up victories against Southern-AA, River Hill and Severn School over the past week. The nature of the games the Bruins have been able to win has head coach Gail Davis excited about what the group could accomplish this season.

"We are proud of all three of our team wins as the first two were close games and we had to battle, as well as stay mentally strong," Davis said. "Both of those games required poise and good decision making with the ball, and in both of those areas we have improved this year."

Indeed the team in general appears to be improved from last year, but that shouldn't come as a surprise. The Bruins are far more experienced this season, with three starters returning from last year. The other two starters are newcomers- junior post player Maura Dawson and freshman guard Khalia Turner.

Along with sheer experience, Davis believes the team is more dynamic this season.

"We have added athleticism and we can run and defend better than in past seasons," Davis said. "We try to push the ball on offense and pressure the ball on defense."

The team's top scoring threat has been senior Autumn Fields, who has managed a double double in every game and has been operating in a post position. The other part of the double double for Fields has been rebounding, where she and Dawson have been dominant for the Bruins.

Broadneck's physical presence beneath the basket has been complimented well by the team's guard play. Both Turner and sophomore Ty Washington are averaging 10 points a game.

The team's fast start has Davis thinking this could be a special season for the Bruins. She believes Broadneck should be competitive with every team in Anne Arundel County, and hopes the team is able to make an impact in the postseason.

"Our goal is always to compete for a county championship, although we know that there are several strong teams with veteran players. We are working hard to improve each day in every practice and in every drill," Davis said. "We have a fabulous group of talented athletes that are anxious to learn and improve."