Norwood High Girls Basketball 2025 Season Recap: Growth Through Adversity and Building Toward a Bright Future
The 2025 winter season was one of rebuilding, resilience, and rediscovery for the Norwood High School girls' basketball team. Under the leadership of Head Coach Michael Moyers, the squad faced significant challenges, ranging from key injuries to roster transitions, yet managed to lay a solid foundation for future success. While the win-loss column may not have reflected their efforts, the journey told a deeper story — one of character, determination, and the emergence of new team leaders.
We sat down with Coach Moyers for our Winter Season Recap Series to reflect on what made this season meaningful and what lies ahead for the Norwood program.
Rebuilding in the Face of Adversity
After graduating significantly from the previous year and losing their top returning scorer to a torn ACL before the season began, the Norwood team entered this season with a clear understanding: this was going to be a year of rebuilding.
"This past season was a rebuilding year," Coach Moyers admitted. “Girls were asked to do things at the varsity level that they weren’t used to doing. Record-wise, it was a down year, but growth-wise, we learned a lot.”
Despite the setbacks, including the mid-season loss of junior standout Nadine Segrist-Bellamah for seven games due to an ankle injury and the loss of London Smith to a knee issue in the final two games, the team showed remarkable mental toughness. Their consistent “next girl up” attitude allowed them to remain competitive, even when depth was tested.
Key Contributors Stepping Up
Several players emerged as leaders and critical contributors throughout the season, stepping up when the team needed them most.
Laney Murphy, a senior and four-year program mainstay, was the heart and soul of the Norwood defense. Known for her willingness to guard the opponent's best player, Murphy became a more well-rounded threat this season. She finished as the team’s second-leading scorer, led in assists, and drew 169 free throw attempts — fourth-most in the entire league. On defense, she ranked fifth in the league in steals. “Very coachable,” Coach Moyers added. “Her energy was high-level every day in practice and games.”
Junior Nadine Segrist-Bellamah was the team’s leading scorer and rebounder, showcasing her athleticism and versatility. Whether it was scoring in transition, defending the paint, or attacking the boards, Nadine did a little bit of everything. Her absence for seven games was a blow, but her leadership and performance when healthy were vital to the team’s identity.
Another junior, London Smith, was asked to make the transition to a guard role this season — a shift she handled impressively. “She’s a great athlete who brings a lot of energy to the team,” said Moyers. Her adaptability and enthusiasm were key to maintaining team morale.
Senior Cheyenne Reynolds rounded out the top performers, stepping up as Norwood’s top outside threat. She led the team in three-point attempts and free throw percentage, becoming a critical floor-spacer and offensive spark.
Rising to the Challenge
The list of those who developed into bigger roles extended beyond the top four. Coach Moyers also praised McKaelah Longieliere, another player who grew into the varsity role as the season progressed. Collectively, these players embodied the program’s commitment to development and readiness, even under tough circumstances.
“This year we had to make a lot of adjustments,” Moyers said. “But in every situation, the girls responded in a positive way.”
Whether it was battling through losing streaks or adapting to role changes, the Norwood girls consistently demonstrated poise. Injuries didn’t derail the team’s effort. Instead, they highlighted the team’s character and determination.
A Legacy of Leadership
The senior class, though small, left a meaningful impact on the program.
Laney Murphy, who had been a part of the program for four seasons, set the tone with her work ethic, leadership, and relentless energy. Her presence in practices and games served as a guiding light for younger teammates.
Cheyenne Reynolds similarly brought consistency and quiet leadership. “She was solid for four seasons,” said Moyers. “Always showed up to practice with good energy, and this season stepped up to be a major contributor.”
Their leadership helped bridge the gap between veteran expectations and emerging talent, creating a culture that values effort, growth, and commitment.
Looking Ahead: Hope and Excitement
While the 2025 season may be in the books, the future of Norwood basketball is already taking shape. Coach Moyers is excited about what’s ahead, starting with the return of a key player.
“We get Lydia Moyers back from injury,” he shared. Her return will bolster both the backcourt and locker room, giving the team a much-needed spark and experience.
The underclassmen who were thrust into varsity roles this season will now have that experience under their belts, and with a solid group of incoming freshmen, depth and competitiveness in practice are expected to improve significantly.
Areas for Growth
Coach Moyers is already focused on offseason development, with a clear emphasis on two key areas: scoring and defensive intensity.
“Offensive scoring ability is a priority,” he noted. “We also want to continue building a more defensive-minded team.”
Through weight training, skill development, and building team chemistry, the Norwood girls will spend the offseason sharpening the tools necessary for a stronger 2026 campaign.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 season for the Norwood High girls' basketball team may not have delivered playoff glory or headlines, but it offered something even more valuable: growth, toughness, and the emergence of a new generation of leaders.
Coach Moyers and his staff guided the team with patience and vision, knowing that seasons like this build the character and chemistry needed for future success.
The challenges they faced only reinforced the team's culture and resilience. With key players returning, young talent blossoming, and a renewed sense of purpose, the Millers are ready to turn lessons learned into victories earned.
As the offseason begins and the next chapter unfolds, one thing is clear: Norwood is not rebuilding anymore — they’re reloading.
Where to Find Stats:
Full team and individual statistics for the Norwood High girls' basketball team can be found on the MVC Conference Website.
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