Two-time champion Saipan Southern High School players pose with the trophy in the girls highs school division of the PSS-NMIBF Interscholastic Basketball League SY24-25 at the Ada gym on Friday.
Marianas High School players pose with the second-place trophy in the girls highs school division of the PSS-NMIBF Interscholastic Basketball League SY24-25 at the Ada gym on Friday.
SAIPAN Southern High School defended their title by outhustling Marianas High School, 32-17, in the girls high school division championship match of the PSS-NMIBF Interscholastic Basketball League SY24-25 at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.
In the opening half, MHS relied on the skills of Jax Dela Rosa and Valerie Estella as they led the scoreboard with five and four points, respectively.
SSHS, for their part, relied on teamwork as they had several skilled players at their disposal. Paired with ball movement, scoring opportunities were easily created with Jahsmin Ramon orchestrating the assault to contribute eight points while Rosie Saralu scored six points and Aiyana Fatialofa delivered three points to give their team a comfortable distance by halftime, 19-11.
The second half was highlighted by SSHS’ defense, which reduced MHS’ offensive production by half.
SSHS’ constant defensive pressure and ability to turn MHS’ errors into transition finishes on the other end allowed Saralu to score six straight points.
Despite falling behind, MHS continued to put up a fight with Dela Rosa at the frontline, sinking two shots. However, she struggled to keep up on defense and was forced to sit out the rest of the game due to excessive fouls.
SSHS’ Ramon responded with two daggering buckets to seal the deal, 32-17, and secure the championship for the second time in a row.
The SSHS roster includes Angel Calage, Rosie Saralu, Jahsmin Ramon, Teneasha Diaz, Mai Peters, Azzy Fatialofa, Aiyana Fataliofa, Kalia Mendiola, Shaenna Yamada, Miley Salas, Martha Cabrera, Haani Passi, Phonix Gross, Meagan Elayda and Mikaenna Nishimura. Their head coach is Mike Mercado and their assistant coach is Yasmeen Younis.
Settling for third place was Mount Carmel School, which lost to MHS, 17-20.
