Southington High School Girls Basketball 2025 Season Recap: A Record-Breaking Run Fueled by Leadership and Team Growth
The 2025 winter season for Southington High School’s varsity girls basketball team will be remembered as one of the most outstanding campaigns in the program’s history. Head Coach Howard Hewitt led the team through a rollercoaster of emotions, early-season surprises, and remarkable success culminating in a school-record 26 victories and a trip to the LL state championship game.
Coach Hewitt took time to reflect on what made this season so special, the key contributors, defining moments, and the bright future ahead for Southington basketball.
A Season Full of Surprises and Highlights
Going into the season, few predicted the heights this team would reach. “The pre-season predictions had us nowhere in sight,” Coach Hewitt admitted, underscoring how much the team exceeded expectations.
The team started strong, winning their first five games before suffering a hard-fought loss to an undefeated Conard squad just two days after Christmas. But that setback proved to be a catalyst rather than a derailment. Following the loss, Southington went on an incredible 21-game winning streak, dominating their league and showcasing the talent and tenacity that would define their season.
Among the most memorable victories were wins against Ridgefield (16-4 record), Northwest Catholic (19-1), and East Catholic (19-1). The highlight was a thrilling championship game victory over East Catholic in the prestigious league tournament — a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.
The only blemish at the end of the season was a tough loss to Sacred Heart Academy in the LL state championship game. Despite the disappointment of falling just short of the ultimate prize, Coach Hewitt called the season “outstanding,” celebrating the team’s school record for wins and the growth shown by every player.
Leadership from the Senior Class
At the core of this historic season was the leadership and performance of the senior class. Coach Hewitt praised seniors Lily Cooper, Hannah Blanchard, and Isabella Leggett as key contributors not just statistically but as the emotional backbone of the team.
Lily Cooper was a standout, finishing her high school career as Southington’s all-time leading scorer with 1,344 points — a remarkable achievement that speaks to her scoring prowess and consistency. Cooper surpassed 1,000 career points this season, a milestone few reach, and her leadership on and off the court inspired teammates throughout the year.
Hannah Blanchard brought dominance in the paint, leading the team in rebounds and averaging 13 points per game. Her presence under the basket was a key factor in the team’s defensive and offensive strategies.
Isabella Leggett matched that scoring average with her steady play and crucial baskets when the team needed them most. Alongside these three, senior Madison Rizzuto overcame injuries from the previous season to return with “special energy” in both practice and games, further lifting the team’s spirit and performance.
Their leadership extended beyond stats; they set the tone in practices, kept the team focused during pressure situations, and fostered a culture of hard work and unity.
Growth from the Younger Players
While the seniors carried the team, Coach Hewitt was equally excited about the contributions from younger players who stepped up as the season progressed. Freshmen Ari Quick and Nerea Maule emerged as valuable assets, gaining experience and confidence with every game.
Sophomore McKenna Crist, along with juniors Gianna Mathews and Alexa Poutouves, expanded the team’s depth, helping to form a solid 10-player rotation that balanced experience with youthful energy.
Grace Russo and Katie Doherty, also seniors, contributed importantly to this rotation, giving Coach Hewitt flexibility to match up against various opponents and maintain the team’s intensity throughout the long season.
This blend of veteran leadership and youthful promise created a balanced squad capable of adapting to different challenges and styles of play.
Defining Moments and Turning Points
Coach Hewitt identified the loss to Conard right after Christmas as the season’s defining turning point. That defeat could have derailed the team’s momentum, but instead, it sparked a renewed focus and determination.
“We responded well to any challenge confronting us,” Coach Hewitt said. The team’s ability to regroup, learn from the loss, and dominate the remainder of the season is a testament to their mental toughness and coaching staff’s guidance.
The subsequent 21-game winning streak reflected not only skill but character — overcoming pressure situations and maintaining composure under high expectations.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Injuries, tough losses, and the pressure of competing at a high level can often test a team’s unity and resolve. For Southington, these challenges became opportunities to grow stronger.
Madison Rizzuto’s comeback from injury set a tone of resilience that permeated the team. Senior leadership ensured the team stayed motivated and focused, while the younger players embraced their roles and responsibilities.
The team’s strong response to adversity was evident in their consistency, especially during the grind of league play and the intensity of postseason competition.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
With the season behind them, Coach Hewitt is energized about what lies ahead. Returning players such as Alexa Poutouves, McKenna Crist, Ari Quick, Nerea Maule, Addison Lasek, and Katia Betros represent a talented core that can build on the success of this historic season.
“We are looking forward to continuing the excitement and success from this season,” said Coach Hewitt, highlighting the program’s strong foundation.
The growth and experience gained this year will serve these returning players well as they aim to compete for league titles and push further in state tournaments.
The Off-Season: The “Improving Season”
Coach Hewitt’s philosophy about the off-season is simple yet powerful: “It’s never the off season, it’s the improving season!” This mindset drives the program’s approach to skill development, conditioning, and mental preparation.
Players will focus on refining their fundamentals, increasing strength and endurance, and honing their basketball IQ to prepare for the challenges of next season.
This commitment to continuous improvement ensures that the program doesn’t rest on its laurels but pushes for sustained excellence.
Statistical Highlights and Where to Follow
Southington’s girls basketball team had a record-breaking 26-win season. Key players such as Lily Cooper, Hannah Blanchard, and Isabella Leggett led in most statistical categories, with Cooper setting a new school record for career points.
For fans and supporters who want to follow individual and team stats throughout the next season, Coach Hewitt recommends checking MaxPreps, the go-to platform for high school sports statistics and updates.
Final Reflections
The 2025 winter season for Southington High School’s varsity girls basketball team was a story of leadership, resilience, and growth. Under Coach Howard Hewitt’s guidance, the team overcame low expectations, responded to adversity, and set new records — all while building a culture that values hard work, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
The seniors left a lasting legacy of excellence and leadership, while the younger players gained invaluable experience to fuel the program’s future success.
As the team moves forward, the “improving season” mentality promises that the best is yet to come for Southington girls basketball.
, Northwest Catholic (19-1), and East Catholic (19-1). The highlight was a thrilling championship game victory over East Catholic in the prestigious league tournament — a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.
The only blemish at the end of the season was a tough loss to Sacred Heart Academy in the LL state championship game. Despite the disappointment of falling just short of the ultimate prize, Coach Hewitt called the season “outstanding,” celebrating the team’s school record for wins and the growth shown by every player.
Leadership from the Senior Class
At the core of this historic season was the leadership and performance of the senior class. Coach Hewitt praised seniors Lily Cooper, Hannah Blanchard, and Isabella Leggett as key contributors not just statistically but as the emotional backbone of the team.
Lily Cooper was a standout, finishing her high school career as Southington’s all-time leading scorer with 1,344 points — a remarkable achievement that speaks to her scoring prowess and consistency. Cooper surpassed 1,000 career points this season, a milestone few reach, and her leadership on and off the court inspired teammates throughout the year.
Hannah Blanchard brought dominance in the paint, leading the team in rebounds and averaging 13 points per game. Her presence under the basket was a key factor in the team’s defensive and offensive strategies.
Isabella Leggett matched that scoring average with her steady play and crucial baskets when the team needed them most. Alongside these three, senior Madison Rizzuto overcame injuries from the previous season to return with “special energy” in both practice and games, further lifting the team’s spirit and performance.
Their leadership extended beyond stats; they set the tone in practices, kept the team focused during pressure situations, and fostered a culture of hard work and unity.
Growth from the Younger Players
While the seniors carried the team, Coach Hewitt was equally excited about the contributions from younger players who stepped up as the season progressed. Freshmen Ari Quick and Nerea Maule emerged as valuable assets, gaining experience and confidence with every game.
Sophomore McKenna Crist, along with juniors Gianna Mathews and Alexa Poutouves, expanded the team’s depth, helping to form a solid 10-player rotation that balanced experience with youthful energy.
Grace Russo and Katie Doherty, also seniors, contributed importantly to this rotation, giving Coach Hewitt flexibility to match up against various opponents and maintain the team’s intensity throughout the long season.
This blend of veteran leadership and youthful promise created a balanced squad capable of adapting to different challenges and styles of play.
Defining Moments and Turning Points
Coach Hewitt identified the loss to Conard right after Christmas as the season’s defining turning point. That defeat could have derailed the team’s momentum, but instead, it sparked a renewed focus and determination.
“We responded well to any challenge confronting us,” Coach Hewitt said. The team’s ability to regroup, learn from the loss, and dominate the remainder of the season is a testament to their mental toughness and coaching staff’s guidance.
The subsequent 21-game winning streak reflected not only skill but character — overcoming pressure situations and maintaining composure under high expectations.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Injuries, tough losses, and the pressure of competing at a high level can often test a team’s unity and resolve. For Southington, these challenges became opportunities to grow stronger.
Madison Rizzuto’s comeback from injury set a tone of resilience that permeated the team. Senior leadership ensured the team stayed motivated and focused, while the younger players embraced their roles and responsibilities.
The team’s strong response to adversity was evident in their consistency, especially during the grind of league play and the intensity of postseason competition.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
With the season behind them, Coach Hewitt is energized about what lies ahead. Returning players such as Alexa Poutouves, McKenna Crist, Ari Quick, Nerea Maule, Addison Lasek, and Katia Betros represent a talented core that can build on the success of this historic season.
“We are looking forward to continuing the excitement and success from this season,” said Coach Hewitt, highlighting the program’s strong foundation.
The growth and experience gained this year will serve these returning players well as they aim to compete for league titles and push further in state tournaments.
The Off-Season: The “Improving Season”
Coach Hewitt’s philosophy about the off-season is simple yet powerful: “It’s never the off season, it’s the improving season!” This mindset drives the program’s approach to skill development, conditioning, and mental preparation.
Players will focus on refining their fundamentals, increasing strength and endurance, and honing their basketball IQ to prepare for the challenges of next season.
This commitment to continuous improvement ensures that the program doesn’t rest on its laurels but pushes for sustained excellence.
Statistical Highlights and Where to Follow
Southington’s girls basketball team had a record-breaking 26-win season. Key players such as Lily Cooper, Hannah Blanchard, and Isabella Leggett led in most statistical categories, with Cooper setting a new school record for career points.
For fans and supporters who want to follow individual and team stats throughout the next season, Coach Hewitt recommends checking MaxPreps, the go-to platform for high school sports statistics and updates.
Final Reflections
The 2025 winter season for Southington High School’s varsity girls basketball team was a story of leadership, resilience, and growth. Under Coach Howard Hewitt’s guidance, the team overcame low expectations, responded to adversity, and set new records — all while building a culture that values hard work, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
The seniors left a lasting legacy of excellence and leadership, while the younger players gained invaluable experience to fuel the program’s future success.
As the team moves forward, the “improving season” mentality promises that the best is yet to come for Southington girls basketball.)
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