Jessi Saffold’s; Sophomore, experience on the girls basketball team this season has been both rewarding and memorable. Reflecting on how the season has gone so far, Jessi says it has been a strong one. “So far my season has been going pretty well,” she shared.
Jessi has also set clear personal goals for herself this season. One of her main focuses is improving her shooting efficiency. “I personally want to up my FG percentage to at least 55% by the end of the season,” she said. These individual goals support the team’s larger mission. As a group, the players are aiming high, hoping “to make it past districts and regionals and to states” by the end of the year.
One of Jessi’s favorite parts of being on the team goes beyond the scoreboard. “My favorite part of being on the basketball team is all the friendships I’ve formed with the girls on the team,” she explained. Those relationships contribute to the team’s strong chemistry. According to Jessi, “our chemistry is very strong and we all play very well together, even the newer players.”
Looking ahead, there is one game Jessi is especially excited for. “I’m specifically looking forward to our game on January 7th against Land O’ Lakes because that’s our senior night game and our rival team,” she said. The combination of rivalry and celebration makes it a meaningful night for the team.
Jessi believes the team’s aggressive defense is what truly sets them apart from others in the district. “Our defense definitely sets us apart… not many other schools play as aggressively on defense,” she noted. Still, she acknowledges that consistency is an area for growth. The team hopes to improve on maintaining the same level of intensity throughout the entire game, regardless of the opponent.
Motivation on the court often comes from team leaders. Jessi credits captains Ava Micikas and Cherity Powells, saying they “bring the most energy and motivation to the team.” One unforgettable moment for Jessi was when Audrina hit a buzzer-beater three against Zephyrhills. “Everyone ran on the court and cheered for her,” she recalled.
