Bedford continues to hold the top spot in New Hampshire's girls basketball rankings, but discussions remain lively regarding the placement of other teams. This week’s rankings feature at least one team from each of the state’s three leading divisions. With records through games played on January 12, the Bulldogs have solidified their position by defeating previously undefeated Pinkerton Academy with a score of 65-52. The contest was the closest any team has come to challenging Bedford, which is considered one of the best teams in New England. Other notable performances include the Lancers' rise in rankings and the Jaguars' impressive start under new coach Todd Steffanides.
In a thrilling match, the Bulldogs showcased their prowess by overcoming the previously unbeaten Pinkerton Academy. This victory underscores Bedford's dominance in the region, making them a formidable opponent for any team. Meanwhile, the Lancers moved up a spot following Pinkerton's loss. Known for their strong offensive game, averaging an impressive 71 points per contest, the Lancers are proving to be a force to reckon with. Sydney Gerrossie, the point guard for the Astros, faced early foul trouble during the match against Pinkerton, but her team remains undeterred and looks forward to another encounter with the Bulldogs on February 10 in Derry.
The Jaguars, now coached by Todd Steffanides, who previously led the Windham boys basketball team, entered the week as one of only three undefeated teams in Division I. Despite opening the season with five straight wins, the Blue Devils faced a setback with a 65-43 loss to Londonderry. They are about to enter a challenging phase of their season with matches against several winning teams, including Concord Christian, Keene, Nashua South, Pinkerton, Bishop Guertin, and Windham. Keene's standout players Harper Zalaski and McKenna Nelson are among the top scorers in Division I, adding depth to the competition.
In Division II, the Sachems and Derryfield Cougars stand out as the two remaining undefeated teams. The Sachems will face their toughest test yet when they meet Pembroke Academy at home on Tuesday. Freshman Anna Fazelat has been instrumental in elevating the Cougars' performance beyond expectations. Concord Christian, transitioning to Division I this season, has shown resilience and competitiveness. St. Thomas, the sole representative from Division III in the Top 10, boasts Genna Bolduc, who scored a career-high 28 points against Campbell after being named MVP of the Oyster River Holiday Tournament.
The ongoing debate around the rankings highlights the competitive nature of New Hampshire's girls basketball scene. While Bedford maintains its supremacy, the dynamic performances of other teams promise an exciting remainder of the season. Each team brings unique strengths and challenges, setting the stage for compelling matchups ahead.