Saipan Southern High School enters the playoffs as the no. 1 seed in the girls high school division of the PSS-NMIBF IT&E Interscholastic Basketball League SY25-26 after finishing the regular season with an undefeated record, earning their fifth straight win over SSHS JV, 71-55, last Friday at the Gilbert C. Ada gym.
The game was marked by a high offensive output, particularly from SSHS V center Azriel Fatialofa, who established early dominance in the paint. Fatialofa proved to be SSHS V’s primary scoring option, using her height and post skills to tally 13 points—including an and-one—to help build the lead.
SSHS JV leaned heavily on Beatrice Gross and Mickaenna Nishimura, who used their athleticism to generate scoring chances. Despite their efforts, SSHS JV couldn’t keep pace with SSHS V, who thrived as supporting role players Teneasha Diaz and Jahsmin Ramon combined for 11 points, helping extend the lead to 36-28 at halftime.
SSHS V cemented their victory with a strong second half, as Fatialofa opened with eight straight points to widen the gap. SSHS JV battled back, with Alexis Taitingfong emerging as an offensive threat alongside Nishimura and Gross. Despite slowing Fatialofa’s production, SSHS V’s depth, with Rosie Saralu, Roman, and Diaz as reliable options, maintained the double-digit margin and saw them cruise to a 71-55 win.
Marianas High School holds the no. 2 seed, edging Kagman High School 38-23 for their fourth win of the season. Mount Carmel School, the no. 3 seed, notched their third victory over Saipan International School, 25-18.
The playoff tournament begins next Wednesday, with the championship scheduled for Friday.
