The 2024–25 season was a year of transition and growth for the Norwood High School Girls Basketball team. Under the steady leadership of Head Coach Michael Moyers, the team navigated a rebuilding year marked by injuries, lineup changes, and young players thrust into unfamiliar roles. While the win-loss column may not reflect it, this was a season of resilience, progress, and promise for the future.
Key Contributors Step Up
Senior Laney Murphy was a model of consistency and toughness. Known for her defense, she also emerged as a vital offensive piece, finishing as the team’s second-leading scorer, leader in assists, and 4th in the league in free throw attempts. Her relentless effort on both ends of the court earned her recognition as one of the top defenders in the league, ranking 5th in steals. “She was very coachable and embraced every challenge we threw her way,” said Coach Moyers.
Junior Nadine Segrist-Bellamah led the team in both scoring and rebounding, establishing herself as a hard-working, two-way force. Despite missing seven games due to an ankle injury, her presence was pivotal when on the floor.
Fellow junior London Smith adapted to a new role as a guard, showcasing her athleticism and versatility, while Cheyenne Reynolds, a four-year senior, stepped up as the team’s primary outside threat, leading in three-point attempts and free throw percentage.
A Season of Challenges and Adjustments
The team began the year already facing adversity, as their leading returning scorer was sidelined before the season began with an ACL tear. The setbacks continued, with injuries to Nadine and London, forcing Coach Moyers and his staff to constantly adjust and rely on younger, less experienced players.
“This season, we were in a true rebuilding phase,” Moyers noted. “We had girls playing roles at the varsity level, they weren’t used to it yet. But every time we were faced with a challenge, they responded with a ‘next girl up’ mentality.”
Leadership That Endures
The senior class left its mark on the program, particularly in terms of leadership and consistency. Murphy and Reynolds both spent four years with the varsity team, setting the tone in practice and games. “Laney brought leadership and high energy every single day,” said Moyers. “Cheyenne always showed up with a positive attitude and became a key contributor this season.”
Looking Ahead
The future looks bright for Norwood. Lydia Moyers will return from injury, adding firepower and experience to the lineup. Younger players who were thrown into the fire this year will come back more seasoned and varsity-ready. With a solid group of incoming freshmen, the program is building momentum.
“We’re excited about what’s ahead,” Moyers said. “We’ll be working hard this offseason to improve our offensive scoring while maintaining our defensive identity.”
Offseason Focus
The team’s goals for the offseason are clear: enhance offensive efficiency and continue building a tough, defensive-minded culture. Weight room work, skill development, and team cohesion will be critical pieces of their offseason plan.
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