Salesian College Prep Girls Basketball Closes Remarkable Season as NorCal Division 2 Runner-Up
The 2024-2025 girls basketball season was one to remember at Salesian College Preparatory, where the Pride stormed through one of the toughest schedules in the state to emerge as NorCal Division 2 runner-up, showcasing grit, growth, and the promise of a bright future.
Under the leadership of Head Coach Stephen Pezzola, the team’s consistent excellence was on full display from opening tip to final buzzer. With a mix of experienced seniors and rising underclassmen, Salesian’s campaign was built on defensive discipline, offensive versatility, and a culture of accountability.
Leaders on and off the Court
At the core of the Pride’s success were four standout athletes: Janiya Sawyer, Jamia Sawyer, Vanessa Parilla, and Emma Bryant—each leaving a distinctive mark on the team.
Janiya and Jamia Sawyer, twin forces and team captains, led in virtually every statistical category. Whether scoring, rebounding, stealing the ball, or providing key stops, the two were the emotional and physical anchors of the team.
“They were leaders in every category this year—from points to rebounds to steals,” Coach Pezzola emphasized. “Their leadership and mentorship set the tone.”
Meanwhile, Vanessa Parilla emerged as a key contributor from the perimeter. Known for her dead-eye three-point shooting and growing defensive prowess, she became one of the team’s most reliable two-way players. Her evolution into a lockdown defender complemented her offensive impact, giving the Pride a much-needed edge on both sides of the court.
And then there was Emma Bryant, the freshman who impressed with her poise beyond her years. She hit threes with confidence, rebounded well from the guard spot, and proved herself as one of the most promising young talents in the region.
A Championship Pedigree
Salesian didn’t just play well this season—they played like champions. The Pride won the TCAL League Championship in dramatic fashion during the Nike Event in Oakland, one of the most prestigious stages for high school basketball in the Bay Area. That win became a major highlight in a season full of signature moments.
Their postseason journey culminated in a hard-fought run to the NorCal Division 2 championship game, where they came just short of a state final appearance. Yet the loss didn’t dampen the team’s legacy—it amplified it. Making it to the final two in a loaded bracket was a testament to their preparation, resilience, and team chemistry.
“I’m very proud of the effort the girls gave,” Coach Pezzola said. “We played a very tough schedule, and they responded every time.”
The Making of a Resilient Team
What set this year’s team apart wasn’t just talent—it was toughness. Throughout the season, the Pride faced challenging opponents and pressure-packed games. Injuries and tough losses came, but the team never lost focus.
“This group was resilient,” Pezzola said. “They learned from those tough losses and did very well in pressure situations.”
That composure was particularly visible in postseason games, where players stayed locked in even as games came down to crucial possessions. The team’s ability to execute under pressure and recover from setbacks speaks volumes about its mental strength and the leadership instilled by its seniors.
Rising Stars Step Into the Spotlight
While the seniors powered much of the team’s success, the future of Salesian girls basketball is already in capable hands. Coach Pezzola praised several underclassmen who took major steps forward this season—particularly Emma Bryant and Lauren Ochong, both freshmen.
“Emma was our most improved player,” Pezzola said. “But Lauren also improved greatly. Both played significant minutes and handled it well.”
Another freshman, Naomi Young, also saw quality court time and contributed meaningfully. Together, this trio of first-year players gained valuable experience that will undoubtedly pay off in seasons to come.
Also drawing praise was rising junior Oriannah Birden, who is expected to take on a larger role next year. With size, athleticism, and basketball IQ, Birden is poised for a breakout season and could be the next star of the Pride program.
“She has great upside potential,” Pezzola said. “I expect big things.”
Looking Ahead: A Foundation for the Future
Though losing three impactful seniors will be a challenge, the Pride have every reason to be optimistic heading into next season. The returning core not only has experience, but also a strong understanding of the team’s identity—especially on the defensive end.
Defense is the trademark of the Salesian program, and it will continue to be a focal point moving forward. However, Coach Pezzola is also aiming to sharpen the team’s offensive toolkit in the offseason.
“We want to work more on post entry and the ability to create shots,” he said. “And we always work on defense.”
This dual emphasis—developing offensive versatility while maintaining defensive intensity—is part of what makes the program so consistent year after year.
The Legacy of the 2025 Senior Class
As the program turns the page to a new chapter, the seniors—especially Janiya and Jamia Sawyer—leave behind more than stats and wins. They leave a legacy of leadership.
“Three of our seniors led us in scoring and will be sorely missed,” Pezzola said. “Janiya and Jamia exhibited a great deal of leadership and mentorship.”
Their impact was felt not just in games, but in practices, team huddles, and locker room conversations. For the younger players coming up, their example will serve as a blueprint for what it means to be a Salesian Pride athlete.
Final Thoughts
In a season full of achievements—from winning a league title on a major stage to reaching the NorCal championship game—Salesian College Prep girls basketball once again demonstrated what a well-led, hardworking, and united team can accomplish.
The 2024-2025 campaign may be in the books, but its lessons and momentum are already shaping the next era of the program. With a promising core of underclassmen and a coach committed to developing talent on and off the court, the future remains bright for the Pride.
For those who want to dive deeper into stats and player performances, season details can be found on MaxPreps.
One chapter closes, but for Salesian basketball, the story is far from over.
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