Dialog reporter
CLAYMONT — Archmere returns several veterans from last year’s team that went 14-8, advancing to the second round of the state tournament. Danaziah Brown, an honorable mention all-state selection, leads the way. She was the Auks’ leader in scoring, assists, steals and blocks. Others to watch include Maggie Malloy, Amanda Denning and Emma McCann.
Coach Dan Pisani said there are four players from the 17-1 junior varsity squad who should make some noise, and a freshman, Madison Stewart, who should have an immediate impact.
Archmere’s depth is perhaps its greatest strength, Pisani said, and the ability to go deep into the bench may be an advantage. Also, the Auks’ defense is a plus; they allowed fewer than 35 points per game last season.
The Auks won seven of their final nine games last season, but Pisani said the team could ascend the girls’ basketball ladder in Delaware.
“We know we accomplished some good things last year, but also know we could have accomplished more. We’ll use that as motivation to keep building. We lost a lot of close games, and we need to work hard to reverse those outcomes,” he said.
The team opens with Newark Charter today at 6:15 p.m. before playing four straight at home. The schedule includes St. Mark’s, Concord, Padua, Caravel and St. Elizabeth in addition to Diamond State Athletic Conference foe Conrad twice.
