This past week has been an exhilarating chapter in the high school basketball season, with several players making remarkable strides. Among these standout performances, Sarah Benowitz from West Milford's junior guard position was nothing short of spectacular. Her team extended their winning streak to five games, thanks largely to her impressive shooting accuracy. Benowitz hit nine three-pointers over the course of the week, including a personal best of four against Passaic Tech, where she scored a season-high 20 points. Her consistent performance elevated her weekly scoring average to an admirable 13.7 points.

In addition to Benowitz, other notable players also made waves. Sienna Drullinsky, a junior guard/forward for Old Tappan, played a pivotal role in securing two victories for the Golden Knights. Her contributions were particularly significant in a match against previously undefeated Demarest. Drullinsky averaged 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 3.5 steals per game, earning accolades from coach Brian Dunn for her versatility and defensive prowess. Meanwhile, Samantha Grella of Immaculate Heart led the Blue Eagles' resurgence, helping them win six out of seven games after a tough losing streak. In a crucial week, Grella tallied 20 points in a victory over Eastside and contributed significantly with 17 points and 5 rebounds against River Dell.

The achievements of Abby Grove, Emily Swierk, and Mackenzie Vellis further highlight the competitive spirit of this season. Grove, a junior forward for Glen Rock, had a career-best performance against Dumont, racking up 37 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists. Her efforts helped maintain the Panthers' nine-game winning streak. Swierk, a sophomore guard for Ramsey, demonstrated resilience as her team recovered from an initial setback to win eight out of nine games. She excelled with two of her highest-scoring games of the season, contributing 15 points at Pascack Hills and 14 points against Indian Hills. Lastly, Vellis, a junior guard/forward for Rutherford, averaged 15.3 points across three wins, starting the week with a double-double that kept the Bulldogs atop the NJIC National Division.

The dedication and skill displayed by these young athletes underscore the importance of perseverance and teamwork. Each player's contribution not only advances their team's success but also serves as an inspiration to others. Their performances remind us that hard work and determination can lead to outstanding achievements, fostering a culture of excellence and sportsmanship in high school athletics.