Tonight at 7:15, the West Po Girls Varsity Basketball Team will go head to head with the South County Basketball Team in a game that feels bigger than a normal season matchup. Coming into the game, both teams hold a strong record, with West Potomac holding a 10-1 record and South County close behind at 12-1. With records like that, this game is expected to be competitive, intense, and full of energy from start to finish.
Playing South County always brings a different feeling, and junior Lina Hashimi explained that the nerves are real but so is the excitement.
“Playing South County makes me nervous but that’s overshadowed with excitement” Hashimi said. “Last year we played them about five times and they always gave us a good fight.”
That history adds even more pressure to the matchup knowing both teams are familiar with each other and know what it takes to compete at a high level.
Before tip off, the West Potomac locker room stays upbeat and connected. According to Hashimi, music plays a big role in setting the tone.
“Before a rivalry game, or any game in general, the vibe in the locker room is great,” she said. “We usually play some fun music and try to get everyone to sing along. It’s funny seeing the quieter players interact and it really gets everyone locked in as well as connected before a game” That connection helps the team settle in before stepping onto the court.
South County games also bring louder crowds and higher pressure, but West Potomac focuses on staying calm.
“When the crowd gets loud I tend to tune it all out,” Hashimi said. “It’s super important to block out all the noise, especially in bigger games. I also remind myself that my team has my back no matter what and small mistakes don’t change the game.” That mindset has helped the team stay composed in tough moments throughout the season.
Team chemistry has been one of West Potomac’s biggest strengths this year.
“Our team has gotten super close throughout the season and this helps us so much,” Hashimi said. “Every team needs a close bond whether it is on or off the court and I believe that we all get along well and it shows on the court.” That closeness shows through communication, trust, and support when games get intense.
Sophomore Olivia Cicero agreed that playing South County adds pressure compared to a normal game, especially since they are a top seed. Still, she said the team stays positive heading into big matchups.
“The vibe before is always positive and energetic,” Cicero said. “We are all on the same page.”
She also emphasized how important team unity is during difficult moments. “Our team is very close and during tough games we stick together and communicate.”
With the game tonight also being Youth night, the atmosphere is expected to be even louder and more exciting. A win would mean another district victory for the West Po Girls Basketball, but the team is staying grounded.
“A win against South County would be special and exciting,” Hashimi said, “But at the end of the day it’s just another win to our schedule and we should be coming off of it stronger and continue to work harder everyday.”
As both teams take the court tomorrow night, the game will be a test of focus, teamwork, and confidence. With strong records on both sides and a rivalry feel in the air, West Potomac knows they’ll need to bring their best effort from the opening tip, be there!