Basketball News Wire

Chestnut Hill, MA- Pine Manor basketball is looking to bounce back from a disappointing '06-07 season. The Gators went into last season with optimism based in a strong nucleus, including three experienced and highly productive players (Amanda Dennis, Angelica Camacho and Laura Cecil) and an influx of three talented rookies (Andrea Lavigne, Nancy Littlefield and Crystal Colon). And, while the three veteran leaders each had the strong seasons that were expected, only Cecil made it through the season without missing critical games due to injury. Similarly, while the first year players each contributed significantly, their flashes of brilliance were interrupted by too much time spent on the sidelines because of injury. So, while the Gators battled valiantly and played many deeper and healthier teams close, their collective efforts resulted in just 5 wins overall and 2 in the GNAC. 

The expectation for '07-'08 is to return to a level PMC basketball is more accustomed to: a double digit win total and spot in the GNAC playoffs. Leading the way will be versatile senior captain Laura Cecil. Joining Cecil as another of the top returning GNAC players will certainly be junior Amanda Dennis. A skilled and athletic post player, Dennis is a consistent double figure scorer (she has over 500 in just two years) and can be a dominating presence in the middle on defense. Andrea Lavigne, leads the way in the backcourt for the Gators.   

The Gators hope that critical supporting roles will be filled by valuable returnees, including, Nicole Doras, and Angie Capre. The freshman class is led by a talented triumvirate from Weaver high school in Hartford.