Stevenson’s Girls Varsity Basketball team beat Zion-Benton Township High School on Tuesday Jan. 13 at home 45-19. With the game being held on Senior Night, the game had extra meaning to students.
Before the beginning of the game, seniors and their families were invited to walk down a red carpet, with a commentator listing their name and accomplishments during their years participating in Stevenson’s basketball teams. Posters were hung outside of seniors including pictures from games they’ve played in and pictures of them as a child.
After the seniors had been celebrated, Alexa Karcz ’26 started off the game strong by winning the tip-off, and Stevenson being in the lead throughout the first half. Mia Mihina ’26 scored three points from the free throw line, followed by Karcz who made a free throw. Reese McLelland ’28 scored two points, followed by Bella Do ’28 with another shot, and McLelland making two separate threes. Stevenson’s lead continued onward, ending halftime with 38-12.
After Allied Cheer’s performance during halftime, the game resumed with Grace Harper ’26 and Leila Markicic ’27 each scoring early second half points. Jordyn Martini ’26 followed with a three, followed by Kaley Demello ’26 scoring a three and Mia Michuda ’27 scoring two. Karcz continued by making a free throw, McLelland made two separate threes, and ended with Karcz’s two.
“Although it was senior night, it was still a game, so we were serious at times, but it was also a time that we could all be together and have fun playing and spending time with each other,” Demello said.
Overall, McLelland led the team with 14 while Kracz added seven and Demello chipped in six. After the final buzzer, the five seniors of the Stevenson varsity girls’ basketball team joined together in the middle of the court for a group hug.
“The game was huge in terms of the sense of community felt by the team, and we were able to play with people that we don’t normally play with on the court,” Martini said. “And I think that was very special, especially on senior night, honoring us and our other fellow seniors.”
