basketball – The Prospector

McClatchy vs. Saint Francis Girls Varsity Basketball

An immediate full-court press was called on the starting play for the McClatchy Lions. Leading the team were the starting five seniors: Sianna Squires, Nina Cain, Kaela Stancil-Williams, Milah Masters, and Norret Lewis.

Starting off strong in the first quarter and never losing the lead, Sianna Squires created the starting three-point advantage. With outstanding ball movement across the floor, along with a brilliant double team on St. Francis’ point guard Sydney Teoh, Nina Cain dominated the floor with defensive rebounds and countless blocks.

The team spirit was evident not only among the players but also in the crowds. The immaculate cheers from the step team and the dances from the cheerleaders made it clear throughout the whole gym that the Troubadours were in the Lions’ Den.

Every year, CKM and Hiram Johnson take turns hosting the annual ROTC basketball tournament and NorCal competition. This year, the annual ROTC basketball tournament is to be hosted at CKM on April 14th.

Hiram Johnson hosted events like NorCal and the Bataan Death March hike last year, but according to Chief Master Sergeant Novelli, CKM is hosting the basketball game for “two years consecutively, for the first time in history.”

All hosts must provide food and refreshments for guest teams. Chief also mentioned that a snack bar will be held so that spectators will have food options, and the snack bar will serve as a mini fundraiser. The prices have not yet been determined.

The size of the team depends on the number of students who sign up and come to practice. Last school year, McClatchy had a total of 42 students, including the 15 players, referees, and servers for the snack bar. There are no try outs because it is exclusive to ROTC.

The team currently has no team captain but has two player coaches, Erica Noe (‘18) and Joseph Gibson (‘18). Player coaches are usually upperclassmen who both coach and participate.

Practice starts on February 22nd, and is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school in the small gym. One benefit to starting early is that it allows for a greater amount of practice, which will be key when the CKM team takes on Whitney High School–CKM’s biggest rival.

Eight to ten AFJROTC teams will go head to head on April 14th at CKM, and everyone is welcome to watch!