The Selma High Varsity Girls basketball team hit the court with intensity and heart, facing a challenging opponent, Madera South, and ultimately falling slightly short on the score, ending the game with a score of 40-36 . Even with the loss, the team’s resilience and teamwork shined in the spotlight for the audience.
One of the players, Mariah Flores, is a junior who has been playing basketball since third grade. She shared insight into her journey and goals this season.
“My parents introduced me to a lot of sports,” said Flores, but basketball was the one I loved most, and I stuck with it,” Flores shared.
Flores’ personal goals for this season include improving her shooting skills and strengthening her mindset, a focus that reflects her commitment to improving both mentally and physically.
She also highlighted the team’s collective goal of making it to the playoffs and building a stronger connection with one another.
She also encourages anyone curious about the sport to give it a try.
“Basketball takes commitment, but learning to love the game is worth it,” she said.
Flores also added that students are always welcome to watch the team.
“If you’re not busy, you should definitely come to our games,” she suggested.
Senior, Izabella Gonzales (Izy), who was inspired by her brothers, has been playing basketball since third grade. Her goal this season is to make it memorable and get many assists. Her goals for her team include getting better at communicating and having the whole team feel confident in themselves, as well as having fun in the process.
After high school, Izy plans to attend college and study to become an OB nurse or ultrasound technician, and she would love to continue playing basketball if given the chance. For new players, she advises focusing on the small details and fundamentals and believing in yourself. “Overall, it’s all about the hard work you put in, even if nobody is watching behind closed doors,” Izy said.
Mike Pallesi, the basketball coach, has been coaching for 36 years. Getting better everyday is the goal he has for this season.
“I love sports and the chess game between me and the other coach,” he explains.
Coach Pallesi then encouraged students to try basketball on their own.
“If you want to come out and be challenged, learn the game of basketball and become a better player, as a price, you will get to be around a bunch of people that want the same things,” he stated.
Win or lose, the varsity girls’ team is building something bigger than a scoreboard:they are building memories that will last a lifetime. And that’s what truly defines their season. Their hard work reflects a team built not just on talent, but on unity.
