Diamond Bar Girls’ Basketball 2025 Season Recap: A Foundation of Growth, Grit, and Promise
In her inaugural season as the head coach of the Diamond Bar High School girls’ basketball team, Coach Camille Buckley walked into a program in transition. With a new system, a new standard, and a roster full of players adjusting to change, there were no guarantees on how the year would unfold. What followed, however, was a season of steady growth, gritty performances, and a strong foundation for the future.
“This was my first year with the program,” said Coach Buckley, “and I've witnessed each player's growth throughout the season. The year wasn’t perfect, but I’m definitely proud of this team’s development.”
Key Contributors Set the Tone
At the center of Diamond Bar’s 2025 campaign were three key players who consistently led the way—Jalyn Winston, Erika Liang, and Cali Azcuenaga.
Jalyn Winston, the team’s anchor on both ends of the floor, led in scoring and rebounding, while also embracing the responsibility of guarding the opposition’s toughest offensive threats. “She took on the toughest defensive assignments,” Buckley noted. Jalyn’s ability to lead by example with her physicality and intensity played a massive role in Diamond Bar’s competitive identity.
Erika Liang, the team’s starting point guard and one of its captains, orchestrated the offense and brought a complete game to every matchup. She led the team in assists, steals, and even shot blocking, showcasing her versatility and court awareness. Erika’s leadership and ability to stay composed under pressure helped keep the team grounded throughout the highs and lows of the season.
Cali Azcuenaga, the team’s primary shooter, was a consistent scoring threat from deep. She led the team in three-pointers made and was the second-leading scorer overall, giving the offense the spacing it needed to operate effectively. Her sharp shooting and confident play style added an important dimension to the team’s attack.
A Season of Transition and Triumph
Taking over a program always comes with challenges, and 2025 was no exception. “There were numerous transitions for the team,” Buckley said, “including a new coach, a new style of play, and new expectations. But they adjusted and competed effectively.”
While the season had its rough patches, Buckley emphasized the team’s growth over time. “There were moments when we struggled to play together and times when we folded in tough situations,” she admitted. “But those occasions became less frequent as the season went on.”
One moment that encapsulated the team’s progress came during the first round of the playoffs, which Buckley described as the defining moment of the season. “The girls fought back against a tough team and came together in a way we hadn’t experienced all season,” she said. “I was so proud of their effort and their ability to persevere.”
Emerging Players Step Into the Spotlight
The success of the season wasn’t only due to veteran leadership. Several younger players developed significantly, showing that the future is bright for Diamond Bar.
Nataly Sun took a major step forward, growing into both an on-court contributor and a vocal leader. “She earned a captain role this season,” Buckley said. “Her presence on the floor was notable throughout the season, and she provided positive energy by always encouraging her teammates.”
Meanwhile, freshman Kaitlyn Dila made a big impression in her first year on varsity. Not only did she earn a starting spot, but she also took on challenging responsibilities—at times even stepping in to run point guard. “What I like most about Kaitlyn is her mindset,” said Buckley. “She’s her toughest critic and always wants to improve. She has a lot of potential, and I’m excited to help her grow over the next three years.”
Weathering the Storms
Adversity is inevitable in high school sports, and the Lady Brahmas experienced their fair share. From injuries to tough losses to pressure-filled moments, the team didn’t always come out on top—but each setback became a teaching moment.
“There were times this season when we struggled to overcome adverse situations,” said Buckley. “But we used those moments to reflect, both individually and as a team, to improve our mental and physical toughness.” That growth was evident in their more resilient play down the stretch and especially in their playoff grit.
A Senior Class That Set the Tone
The 2025 season was also shaped by a special group of seven seniors, whose leadership helped lay a new foundation for the program. “They were pivotal to our success,” Buckley said. “Each of them contributed in different ways, and their leadership and productivity will be missed next year.”
While their departure leaves a hole in terms of experience, it also leaves behind a culture of hard work and accountability that will guide the returning players in seasons to come.
Building for the Future
Coach Buckley’s excitement about the future is palpable—and justified.
“What excites me about the returning players is the opportunity to build on the foundation that was laid this year,” she said. “I’m looking forward to adding new skills to their games, helping them further develop their leadership skills and basketball IQ, and challenging them to reach their potential.”
With returning standouts like Nataly Sun and Kaitlyn Dila, along with others who showed promise throughout the season, Diamond Bar has the pieces to continue building a strong program.
Offseason Focus: Sharpening the Tools
Looking ahead, the offseason will be less about team systems and more about individual development.
“This offseason, we will primarily be working on individual skills rather than team concepts,” Buckley explained. “The offseason provides an opportunity to elevate specific skills and address the needs of individual players. That personal growth will give them the confidence to better contribute when the season begins.”
Whether it’s refining shooting form, improving ball handling, or gaining strength and agility, the team is focused on closing the gap between potential and performance.
Stats and Support
For those wanting to follow the Lady Brahmas’ journey and track the team’s performance metrics, stats can be found on MaxPreps, where game-by-game breakdowns and player averages are available.
Final Thoughts: Year One Was Just the Beginning
Coach Camille Buckley’s first season at the helm of the Diamond Bar girls’ basketball program laid the groundwork for something special. With a blend of senior leadership, breakout performances from young talent, and a team culture built on resilience and growth, the 2025 season was far more than a transition year—it was a transformation.
The journey wasn’t perfect, but the progress was undeniable.
And if the players’ continued commitment to growth matches the vision and passion of their coach, the future of Diamond Bar basketball looks very bright indeed.
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