Last Wednesday the George Mason High School girls’ varsity basketball team protected their own floor by defeating Strasburg High School 44-24 to take over sole possession of second place in the Bull Run District.
Throughout the night, as they have done throughout the year, the Mustangs’ smothering defense held the Rams’ three-point shooters in check, as Strasburg only put up two points in the second quarter and four points in the fourth quarter. Junior forward Bailey Walton led at both ends of the court with 18 points, four rebounds and four steals.
Junior point guard Rachel Kazman continued to improve on the offensive end, finishing the game with four points, five assists, while pestering the Ram players with four steals. Sophomore forward Kim Kenny added seven points and four rebounds, while junior guard Annie Zweighaft chipped in seven points and two rebounds.
Following their impressive win against now-third place Strasburg, the Mustangs stepped on the gas and never looked back against hosts Rappahannock County, defeating the Panthers 52-29 last Friday to remain alone in second place.
Leading the charge for the Mustangs was sophomore Kim Kenny, who posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds to go along with her three steals. The girls also received solid performances from junior Kate Root, who posted an impressive eight points, three rebounds and two steals. Sophomore Mayssa Chehata controlled the paint with two points, five rebounds, one assist and a steal, while senior captain Kit Thackrey added two rebounds and a steal. Mustang coach Bill Broderick also sang the praises of junior point guard Hannah Baumgardner, who directed the offense throughout the night to lead Mason to victory.
The win against Rappahannock brought Mason’s record to 12-9 on the year, as well as 7-2 in the Bull Run District. Mason’s only two losses in the league came to defending state runner-up Clarke County.
The Mustangs closed out the regular season with a home game against Manassas Park this Wednesday. Results were not available at press time.
