Another Game, Another Victory for Lady Knights

Another+Game%2C+Another+Victory+for+Lady+Knights

After a perfect regular season at 19-0, one would expect the Floral Park Memorial girls’ basketball team, awarded the number one seed in the playoffs, to have an easy opening opponent. However, those in attendance for Saturday’s second-round game at FPM saw a highly competitive contest pitting two very talented teams against each other.

And as they have every other time they walked onto the court this year, the Lady Knights came away victorious, pulling away from a tough Valley Stream Central team, 49-38, to advance into the quarterfinals.

“I knew this team was much more talented than a 16 seed,” said coach Mike Spina, who has done a remarkable job all season having his team prepared and ready to play every game.

With an imposing front line and some crafty playmakers, Valley Stream Central played Floral Park tight throughout the first half. Coach Spina’s team had a 26-20 lead heading into halftime. But the combination of the Lady Knights’ defensive pressure, outside shooting and unselfish play was too much for the Lady Eagles to overcome. The excellent performance was buoyed by a packed house of enthusiastic Floral Park fans.

As has been the case all season, Floral Park’s victory was a true team effort. Erin Harkins led the way with 18 points while Caroline Lubicich chipped in with 14. Super talented freshman Maya Bateau was once again a presence inside, Jaeda Delsoin (eight steals) brilliantly broke the press and dished out six assists, and Amanda Kozak offered her usually steady all-around game to compliment the victory.

In the latest New York State rankings, Floral Park is tenth in class A. The quarterfinals will be on Tuesday, February 25 against 9th-seeded South Side. The game will start at 4:30 pm at Floral Park Memorial.