Central High School Girls’ Basketball: A Season of Grit, Growth, and Gritty Comebacks
After a tough 2–16 record in the 2023–2024 season, few could have predicted the dramatic transformation of the Central High School Lady Knights this winter. But with a combination of experienced returners, impactful newcomers, and the leadership of Coach Karen Byrne, the team shocked the local hoops scene by finishing 10–11 and earning a trip to the Division III Playoffs—an achievement the program hadn’t seen in years.
“It was a great season,” said Coach Byrne. “We got better every day, and we did it together. That was the most important thing—being a team.”
From Struggles to Playoffs: The Turnaround
The Lady Knights’ leap from just two wins the previous year to double digits in 2025 was more than just a stat line—it was a testament to hard work, chemistry, and belief.
“One of the defining moments was starting the season with a few wins,” Byrne reflected. “Last year, we didn’t get our first win until late January. But this season, we came out with confidence. That early success gave us momentum and kept the team focused on our goals.”
Two of the most memorable victories included a win over Division II Middletown High School and an intense battle against Hope High School, the defending 2024 state champions, which the Knights won in thrilling fashion.
Leading the Charge: Rosario and Palmer
The foundation of the team’s success rested on two outstanding guards: senior captain Ciara Rosario and freshman phenom Keeana Palmer.
Rosario was a true ironwoman for the Knights, leading the team in minutes, points, rebounds, and assists. Her leadership, both on and off the court, set the tone for the season.
“Ciara was everything you want in a captain,” said Byrne. “She led by example and made everyone around her better.”
Freshman Keeana Palmer was a revelation. Starting at point guard, she finished second in scoring and assists, and first in steals, earning All Division III Third Team and All-Rookie Team honors. Together, Rosario and Palmer were the engines of Central’s offense and the heartbeat of the squad.
A Deep and Determined Roster
Though Rosario and Palmer earned accolades, this season was far from a two-player story. A deep and diverse supporting cast emerged, giving the Knights new dimensions on both ends of the court.
Raynelis “Ray” Rivas, a junior, brought scoring punch as a starter, attacking the rim with confidence and knocking down shots from deep. “Her energy and style of play gave our program a fun, positive vibe,” said Byrne.
Adamaris “Little Morris” Valentin, a freshman guard, made her mark with timely steals, three-pointers, and breakaway layups. Her presence took pressure off Rosario and Palmer, opening up the offense.
Anamaris “Ana” Alonzo, a junior forward, provided physicality and toughness inside. Though she didn’t always show up on the stat sheet, her ability to battle larger post players and crash the boards earned her the title of “unsung hero.”
Karizma “Rizzy” Mederios, another freshman, was the team’s defensive ace, often guarding the opponent’s best scorer. “She was smart, selfless, and a big part of our team’s defensive success,” said Byrne.
Joyce Nyiramisha, a sophomore center, added much-needed size and athleticism, disrupting shots in the paint and cleaning up on the glass. Her ability to run the floor made her a matchup nightmare.
Destiny “Goggle Girl” Gilreath, a junior guard, did whatever was asked—diving for loose balls, making the extra pass, and providing that quiet glue every good team needs. She was also recognized for her achievements off the court with All-Academic honors.
This mix of youth, experience, and selflessness created a balanced and unified team that played with purpose every night.
Facing Adversity Head-On
Like any season, this one came with its challenges: injuries, tough losses, and the pressure of building a winning culture in a program still finding its footing. But according to Byrne, her team never wavered.
“We stayed together through it all,” she said. “Every player stepped up when someone went down. They supported each other, and they all looked to Ciara for leadership.”
That resilience paid off in the playoffs and in tight regular-season games, where the Lady Knights showed poise and maturity beyond their years.
Recognition and Reward
The Knights’ efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Rosario was named First Team All Division III, a fitting capstone to her high school career. Palmer earned Third Team All-Division III and All-Rookie Team nods, with a promising future ahead. Gilreath's academic achievements were also honored with an All-Academic selection.
The team also competed in the Providence Country Day Holiday Tournament, winning one of two games. Rosario earned All-Tournament honors, adding another highlight to a season packed with milestones.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
With nine returning players and several underclassmen having already proven themselves, the future is bright for Central High School girls' basketball.
“We’re just getting started,” said Coach Byrne. “This year showed us what’s possible when we work hard and trust each other.”
Players like Palmer, Rivas, Nyiramisha, Mederios, Valentin, and Alonzo are expected to take on even bigger roles next year, and with the taste of playoff basketball still fresh, they’ll be motivated to go even further.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Wins
While the wins, awards, and playoff appearances are all impressive, Coach Byrne is most proud of the culture her team built together.
“This season wasn’t just about basketball,” she reflected. “It was about showing up for each other. About learning how to win, how to lose, and how to grow. These girls believed in themselves—and now they believe in each other.”
With strong leadership, emerging talent, and a renewed sense of pride, the Central High School Lady Knights have laid the foundation for sustained success. And if this season was any indication, the best is yet to come.
Stay tuned for more features in our 2025 Winter Season Recap Series. For more information on Central High School athletics or to view team statistics, visit RIIL.org or contact the Central HS Athletics Department.
Share With