This year Riordan’s girls basketball team faced their first WCAL season. Being one of the most competitive leagues in the state of California, this came with some challenges. Through these challenges, the team ultimately prevailed, making the CCS playoffs.
The Crusaders finished the season with an overall record of 17-11 and a league record of 7-5, including a 60-59 win over city rivals St. Ignatius. This was a substantial improvement over their past season’s record of 12-10 (with a less competitive schedule).
Led by Ashanti Dias ’24, who is headed to Cal State LA to continue following her passion in basketball, the first WCAL season ultimately exceeded expectations.
Dias said, “The season went really well just like expected.It was our first year in WCAL and we proved ourselves and why we weren’t meant to be in it to begin with.”
Despite facing tough competition such as Archbishop Mitty, who were considered the best team in the nation, Riordan ended the season at 3rd place in the WCAL standings.
In addition to the team’s success, some of the players found individual dreams realized this season. Seniors Nadia Brown and Ashanti Dias were granted the opportunity to continue their basketball careers in college next season.
“From starting at Riordan as a freshman and seeing the growth with the girls program now, man it’s really a blessing and I see so many bright things happening with the girls program,” shared Dias.
Overall, this season was a success for Riordan’s girls basketball program, and laid the foundation for years to come.
Coach Will stated, “Growth comes from experience & maturity, and they will only get better!”
