5..4..3..2..1 and the Booker T. Washington Bookers have defeated the George Mason Mustangs in the state quarterfinals.

Last season didn’t end the way the George Mason girls basketball team intended. After defeating Brentsville District in the regional championship everyone thought this team had state championship aspirations. Although the loss was heartbreaking, the hardest part of the loss was having to see seniors Julia Rosenberger and Emma Rollins play their final Mason basketball game.

“Anytime you lose any senior leadership it is difficult to replace, because you know last year those girls were the backbone of the team. Since we have multiple girls on our team, and some with many years of experience playing, that bodes well for us,” Coach Carrico said.

Last season was mainly led by the underclassmen, and more specifically star point guard Zoraida Icabalceta who averaged an astonishing 14.5 points per game. Icabalceta finished her season earning second team all-state honors. This season, she will look to take a step up and be the new leader this team needs. 

“I think that a lot of kids from JV have so much potential to come up and take my spot. Carrico is really passionate about the season and team so I know they are already putting enough work to improve . Our bench last year was amazing so I’m sure anyone could be thrown into my starting position and be what the team needs,” former student Julia Rosenberger said.

The girls basketball team is looking to retain almost 80% of their roster from last season. After coming out on top in the Northwestern district, the girls look to repeat as champions.

“Our sophomores and juniors are really going to have to step up and take on a leadership role. Both of them (Emma and Julia) played a big role especially from a leadership standpoint. This is a really good time for our team to come together and to support each other,” sophomore Elizabeth Creed said.

The Mustangs take on Warren County on January 6 to start off their season.