Brackenridge Girls Basketball: A Season of Resilience, Growth, and Culture Change Under Coach Clarissa Torres
The 2024–2025 winter season was nothing short of transformative for the G.W. Brackenridge High School girls basketball team. Under the guidance of second-year Head Coach Clarissa Torres, the program not only broke a six-year playoff drought but also began laying a powerful cultural foundation that promises to carry the Eagles to new heights.
Brackenridge concluded their season with a 24-15 overall record and a 12-4 finish in district play, officially clinching their first playoff berth since the 2018–2019 campaign. For Coach Torres, this milestone was far more than just a win-loss statistic—it was the visible result of a deep shift in attitude, effort, and identity.
“This season was built on collective effort and unity,” said Torres. “Every athlete understood that success wasn’t just about stats—it was about energy, effort, and execution. From the bench to the starting five, every role was crucial, and this team fully bought into that.”
Seniors Who Set the Standard
The heart of this transformation beat through the contributions of three senior leaders: Ashlynn Cortinas, Sky Lopez, and Layla Galvan.
Ashlynn, recovering from a previous ACL injury, returned with focus and fire. She wasn’t just a statistical contributor—she was the emotional anchor and the team's voice. Her presence on and off the court exemplified what it meant to lead with passion and heart.
Sky Lopez played the role of the tireless workhorse. Her energy never waned—whether in the gym, during practices, or battling through tough matchups. Her consistent hustle and selfless play elevated those around her and established a high bar for commitment.
Meanwhile, Layla Galvan was the team’s dual-threat: a defensive stalwart and offensive catalyst. Her effort on both ends of the floor helped dictate tempo and shut down opponents’ best scorers. Her growth into a true two-way player gave the team versatility and stability when they needed it most.
Together, these seniors were more than players—they were culture setters.
Sophomore Janae Cerda, who is a walking sponge just trying to learn everything from the upperclass, all while working on her leadership skills and being a main factor as a returning varsity starter. Our returning Varsity girls, including Sarah Arriaga, Katelynn Arriaga, Brianna Ramirez, Soraya Rodriguez, Xochi Zamora, Denia Rios, and Sophia Rios, have been putting in the work to set the standard for next season. They understand that there is no such thing as “off season,” and we renamed summer as “Grit Season.”
“They grew into leaders who learned how to communicate, uplift one another, and prioritize unity over ego,” said Torres. “In the end, they left their mark by showing what it means to lead with heart, humility, and a shared purpose.”
Turning Points and Growth Opportunities
A pivotal moment in the season came during the McAllen Border Bash Tournament. Facing a different level of physical and strategic play, the Eagles finished 3-1, but the real win was in the growth and grit the team developed.
“It was more physical, more structured, and demanded more discipline,” Torres explained. “After McAllen, something shifted. The girls started to carry themselves differently—with more composure and more grit.”
From that point on, Brackenridge played with heightened intensity and cohesion, turning lessons learned into consistent execution in district play.
Several players also stepped into bigger roles as the season progressed. In addition to the senior trio, junior guard Sarah Arriaga emerged as a key playmaker. Her basketball IQ, composure, and clutch performances helped the team navigate pressure moments and maintain control in tight games.
“Sarah grew into a key contributor who could dictate the pace and set her teammates up for success,” said Torres. “Her growth was all about poise.”
Adversity as a Catalyst
No season is without its trials, and the Eagles faced more than a few. From limited gym access due to renovations to significant injuries, most notably a season-ending ACL tear for freshman Briana Salinas, this group had every reason to falter.
Instead, they rallied.
“Each loss came with a lesson, and we weren’t content just with the outcome,” said Torres. “We emphasized learning, adjusting, and coming back stronger. Even our Saturday practices were built around recovery and prevention—it was all part of staying ready.”
Through adversity, the Eagles found resilience. And in that resilience, they found their identity.
Culture First, Wins Follow
While the wins and playoff berth were tangible signs of success, Coach Torres is focused on something deeper—building a culture of care, accountability, and long-term excellence.
“What excites me most is that our returning players understand the bigger picture,” she said. “They know I care about them beyond basketball. That connection builds character, and that character shows up in how we compete.”
This emotional and mentorship-based approach has already created a ripple effect. Younger players are buying in, and local middle school athletes are taking notice. Torres has intentionally strengthened ties with feeder programs, attending middle school games and practices to foster unity and future excitement.
“We’ve got a young fan base forming,” she shared. “Middle school athletes are already excited to put on a Brackenridge jersey—and that’s powerful.”
Eyes on the Future
Looking ahead, the focus is clear: improve strength, speed, and shot consistency, while continuing to diversify defensive strategies. Torres wants her team to be tougher, faster in transition, and smarter on defense—able to adapt to any opponent and dictate the game.
Off the court, leadership development and team chemistry remain top priorities.
“We’re not just preparing for a new season—we’re building something sustainable, year after year,” Torres emphasized.
A Program on the Rise
From heartbreak in a play-in game last season to playoff qualification and a culture reset this year, Brackenridge Girls Basketball is writing a new chapter—one driven by selflessness, strength, and growth.
Coach Clarissa Torres has done more than revive a team—she’s sparked a movement. One rooted in care, resilience, and high expectations. And with a strong core returning, a growing feeder system, and a culture that’s now embedded in the DNA of the program, the Eagles are only getting started.
For more stats and updates on Brackenridge Girls Basketball, check out their pages on MaxPreps and Hudl.
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