Page 14 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025 Lady Pats basketball team nets 10th by defensive dominance By Dom Nicastro T he Revere High School girls’ basketball team continues to make waves in the Greater Boston League (GBL), improving to 10-7 overall and 8-2 in league play after a hardfought victory over Somerville last week. The Patriots have shown resilience and defensive tenacity, showcasing their “#RevereTough” mentality in recent games, as Coach Ariana Rivera put it. In their latest win against the Highlanders, Revere struggled in the fi rst half, particularly on the boards. Somerville capitalized on second-chance opportunities, leading to a 25-20 halftime defi cit. “We came out in the second half with some more urgency and showcased what it means to be ‘#RevereTough,’” Rivera said. “We interrupted their off ense with lock-down defense and protecting the paint at all costs. Somerville had a couple of strong rebounders and most of their points had come from off ensive boards in the fi rst half. We adjusted and were able to gain momentum.” The Patriots made key adjustments at halftime, ramping up their defensive intensity and shutting down Somerville’s off ensive rhythm. Senior captain Marwa Riad and junior Shayna Smith spearheaded the defensive eff ort, combining for 15 rebounds while taking on Somerville’s top scorers. “They were instructed to take these players out of their groove,” Rivera said, “and they did exactly that. Great showcase of owning their roles on the court.” On the off ensive side, senior captain Belma Velic delivered win backed “Captain Lea Doucette had one of her best games this season,” Rivera said. “She chipped in with eight points and had an unmatched spark off the bench.” A major factor in the victory was Revere’s discipline with the ball, limiting turnovers to under 12. “We valued the basketball and played our game,” Rivera said. “We did not let Somerville dictate our off ense or defense, and we came up with the win.” With the GBL league split into two separate groups, Revere’s fi rst matchups against Chelsea, Lynn English, Somerville and Everett count toward their league record. However, second matchups against those teams only aff ect their overall record. As the regular season winds Revere Senior Belma Velic looks to the basket during Tuesday night’s action against Everett. (Advocate Photos by Emily Harney) a huge double-double, finishing with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Belma was a force inside, according to Rivera, and stepped up when Revere needed her most. Senior Nisrin Sekkat took charge of the off ense at point guard, adding 15 points, while captain Lea Doucette provided a much-needed spark off the bench with eight points. down, Rivera’s squad will look to carry this momentum forward with an emphasis on defensive intensity, rebounding and disciplined off ensive execution. If the Patriots continue to defend at this level and control the boards, it can compete with anyone, Rivera said. Revere as of last week’s MIAA power rankings sat at No. 43 in the 55-team Division 1 bracket. Revere will get into the postseason via a.500 record or better, which the Patriots achieved with their 10th win. Freshman Allyson Ollivierra dribbles the ball past an Everett defender. Junior Shayna Smith passes the ball as defenders from Everett surround her.
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