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North Valleys High School Women’s Basketball Season Preview

Women’s Basketball
Winter Recap 2025 Play1
Thu, June 19, 2025 at 02:06 AM . Nevada

North Valleys Women’s Basketball: Building a Legacy of Excellence and Resilience in 2025

The 2025 winter season proved to be a landmark year for the North Valleys Women’s Basketball team. Under the steady and visionary leadership of Head Coach Zach LeMay, the Panthers not only extended their dominance in league play but also set new program records that reflect a culture of perseverance, growth, and high achievement. In a candid interview, Coach LeMay shared insights about a season filled with historic accomplishments, challenges overcome, and a future bright with promise.

Key Contributors: Stars Who Shone Bright

This season, North Valleys relied on several standout players whose individual and collective efforts propelled the team to new heights. Foremost among them was Ivy Williams, the 3A West Player of the Year, whose consistently stellar performances underscored why she’s considered one of the top talents in the state. Williams’ leadership and skill on both ends of the floor made her the heart and soul of the Panthers. Complementing her brilliance were Alexys DeCremer and Annika Hester, both earning 3A West First Team honors. Their playmaking abilities, scoring, and defensive tenacity contributed significantly to the team’s success throughout the season. Another key contributor was Emily Huff, named to the 3A West Second Team, who displayed tremendous growth and emerged as a player to watch in upcoming seasons. Together, these athletes formed a core that not only delivered on game nights but set a standard for the rest of the team to follow.

A Season to Remember: Records and Triumphs

Reflecting on the season, Coach LeMay expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments, stating, “We won our third straight league title and lost the game to go to state.” While falling just short of the state tournament was a disappointment, the Panthers broke new ground by setting program records for most wins in a single season (22) and for longest winning streak (16 straight wins). Such milestones underscore how the program has evolved from a competitive league participant to a dominant force in Nevada girls’ basketball. This winning culture, built on discipline and teamwork, has become a hallmark of the Panthers’ identity.

Overcoming Adversity: Battling Injuries and Staying United

The road to success was not without obstacles. Injuries to key bench players tested the team’s depth and resolve. Coach LeMay noted, “We battled through many injuries to key bench players and still found ways to stick together and win games.” This collective resilience was evident throughout the season as players stepped up when called upon. The ability to maintain cohesion and focus despite setbacks became a defining characteristic of the team, highlighting the strength of the program’s culture and the players’ mental toughness.

Player Development: Rising Stars and Future Leaders

As the season progressed, several players showed marked improvement, setting the stage for future success. Emily Huff, in particular, “showed that she is in for a breakout senior season,” according to Coach LeMay, signaling her arrival as a potential star and key contributor in the years to come. Meanwhile, Ivy Williams continued to refine her game, “proving that she is one of the best players in the state.” Her development trajectory suggests she will remain a dominant force and leader for North Valleys in the near future. The growth of these players not only boosts the team’s competitive edge but also inspires younger teammates striving to earn their roles.

Leadership and Legacy: A Senior Class That Transformed the Program

The senior class that just graduated left an indelible mark on North Valley's Women’s Basketball. Coach LeMay credited them with orchestrating one of the most remarkable turnarounds in Nevada basketball history. “When they came in as freshmen, we were one of the worst teams in the state,” he recalled. Their dedication, leadership, and unyielding work ethic helped transform the program into a perennial contender. This group “planted the seed for a successful program,” laying the groundwork for sustained excellence. Their legacy lives on not only in the record books but also in the culture and expectations they established — a culture that returners and incoming players will strive to uphold.

Looking Ahead: Optimism and Excitement for the Future

Despite the loss of key seniors, the Panthers’ outlook remains optimistic. Coach LeMay is particularly excited about the returning talent and the depth they are building. “We are returning Ivy Williams, the Player of the Year, and Emily Huff, who has proven to be an elite talent,” he said. Adding to this core are 2023-2024 honorable mention players Rihley Monticelli, Aubrey Reeves, and Nahla Mickle, all coming back from injuries that limited their participation last season. Beyond the varsity squad, North Valleys has a strong pipeline, with a JV team that won 24 games last season. This influx of talented and committed young players promises to bolster the Panthers’ competitiveness in the coming years.

Offseason Focus: Sharpening Skills and Team Dynamics

Coach LeMay outlined clear priorities for offseason improvement, focusing on several key areas: Breaking down opponents one-on-one: Enhancing individual offensive and defensive skills to create and defend scoring opportunities. Quick decision making: Developing the team’s ability to read the game and react swiftly to changing situations. Defensive rotations: Tightening defensive communication and positioning to minimize opponent scoring chances. Becoming quick knock-down shooters: Improving shooting accuracy and consistency to maximize offensive efficiency. Addressing these aspects will not only elevate the team’s overall performance but also prepare the Panthers to meet the increasing competition head-on.

Where to Follow the Panthers

For fans and followers eager to keep up with North Valleys Women’s Basketball, the team’s stats and game updates are available on MaxPreps at https://www.maxpreps.com/nv/reno/north-valleys-panthers/basketball/girls/stats/. This platform offers comprehensive data, including individual player stats, team rankings, and game recaps.

Conclusion: A Program on the Rise

The 2025 season was a testament to North Valley’s commitment to building a championship-caliber women’s basketball program. Through remarkable individual performances, resilience in the face of adversity, and a culture of continuous improvement, the Panthers have cemented themselves as a powerhouse in Nevada high school basketball. Coach Zach LeMay’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in this transformation, guiding a group of athletes who not only win games but also embody teamwork, discipline, and pride. As North Valleys looks ahead, the blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent, combined with a clear focus on skill development, promises to sustain the program’s upward trajectory. With such a solid foundation, the Panthers are poised to chase even greater heights and leave an enduring legacy in women’s high school basketball. For further updates, stories, and detailed statistics, stay connected with North Valleys Women’s Basketball through their official MaxPreps page.
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