NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - After reaching last year’s sectional semifinals, the North Salem girls basketball team enters the season with momentum. In his second year leading the program, head coach Elvin Gutierrez believes the Tigers are ready to build on last's season's success.
“We have established the beginning of a foundation in the girls basketball program,” Gutierrez said. “We will continue to build on it every minute we spend on the court.”
With six returning players guiding a group of five newcomers, Gutierrez expects this year’s team to be even more competitive, particularly on the defensive end.
“We have six returning players that understand what is expected of them and will integrate five new players to varsity,” he said. “We are going to be tough defensively and look to outwork our opponents.”
Several returning standouts give North Salem an experienced and balanced foundation. Sophomore forward Maddy Horel is emerging as both a dependable scorer and a defensive anchor, while senior captain Noemi Torres brings athleticism and the ability to score in transition. Junior captains Katherine Vassak and Emma Greenberg add stability and leadership—Vassak in the paint and Greenberg in the backcourt. Junior guard Keely Aparicio adds another dimension with her ability to get hot from behind the arc, giving North Salem a consistent perimeter threat.
Freshman guard Kerri Nemeth is one of the most promising newcomers and is expected to contribute immediately with her versatile scoring ability.
With more depth, confidence, and familiarity in Gutierrez’s system, the Tigers enter the season poised to take another step forward. Their increased experience and defensive toughness could make them one of the more intriguing teams in Class C.
“We’re building something strong,” Gutierrez said. “And we’re going to keep getting better—every minute we’re on the court.”
After coming up just short of a sectional final last season, North Salem is determined to return to the postseason—and this time, push even further.
The Tigers will kick off the season on the road against Putnam Valley on Monday, Dec. 8 at 5 p.m.
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