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Basketball Brilliance: Panthers Surges to TAPPS State Semifinals
The Parish Panthers basketball team has been powering through each moment on the court this season. Putting forth an incredible effort after a long season, the team has found themselves in a great position-- entering the TAPPS State Semifinals against Prestonwood!
Led by head coach Ahmad Ajamy, the Panthers have showcased brilliance on the court this season. With a 26-10 overall record (7-3 in their district), the team started the season with a dominating eight-victory run against the likes of Southwest Christian School, TACA, Carrollton Prince of Peace, and others to set the tone for the rest of the season. Through non-district play, the team continued to dominate over their opponents, posting more victories over BigTyme Prep Academy, North Dallas, Aledo, Richardson JJ Pearce, and others before district play.
Through their district schedule, Antoine Almuttar, Armon Almuttar, Sawyer Batz, Harris Dar, Torrey Mitchell, Beckham Smith, and other talented athletes led the charge as the Panthers finished third in their district standings-- just behind Prestonwood and John Paul II. The team defeated Trinity Christian Academy, Bishop Lynch, Prestonwood, and others before entering the playoffs. Once in playoffs, the Panthers showed no signs of slowing down before securing their spot in the TAPPS State Tournament.
Looking ahead toward Prestonwood, Parish knows exactly what it takes to take down such a prolific opponent. Having faced the team twice already this season (one victory and one loss), the Panthers will be looking to repeat their first meeting this season in which Parish toppled the Lions 59-45. With a heart for the game and the desire to continue putting in the hard work necessary, fans can expect the Panthers to keep their tempo high as they enter the state semifinal game on March 1. Keep your eyes on this team as they look to advance to the state title match!
VYPE DFW Private School Preseason Female Basketball Player of the Year: Brooke Dial of Parish Episcopal presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors
With basketball season already underway, we have seen plenty of great athletes beginning to make their mark this season. One of those athletes has been Brooke Dial from Parish Episcopal who recently won the VYPE DFW Private School Preseason Girls Basketball Player of the Year Fan Poll presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors. VYPE DFW was able to catch up with Dial in regards to her time thus far with Parish and what her expectations are for the season and the rest of her future:
Eyes on the Prize
The junior small forward makes sure to keep her priorities in line all year long- to include during the off-season- in order to remain at the top of her game. "[During the offseason] I continue to workout, train, read, and motivate my teammates," Dial told VYPE in an exclusive interview. "I watch film from last year to see what I have to work on to improve." While staying on her game, Dial is sure to head into each new season with a great mindset. This season her mindset is to put her team first. "Do what I can and be there for my teammates and my team- to help out as much as possible."
With a mindset like that, it's not too difficult to be successful, but is there an overall secret to being successful in the TAPPS world of high school basketball? "Honestly, constantly being in the gym. Even when I'm not working out, I'm there watching games," she told VYPE. As far as an overall team success- the only secret is being cohesive as a team, says Dial. "Teamwork makes the dream work. It's about how close all of us are- we hang out outside of basketball and we have a respect for each others game. We also know our role."
Making memories while setting goals
With the season well underway, Dial has an idea of what she want the rest of it to look like. "[My goals this season are to] continue working to get better, improve my mid-range jumper, help with the overall success of the team, and hopefully get some offers," Dial said. With a team-first attitude and the ability to stay focused, Dial also has an idea of what the team would like to accomplish this season: "to get better together and win as many games as we can. Of course- win state."
As a junior, Dial has made many memories so far. One of her favorite memories comes from her very first year with the Panthers. "My favorite memory is making first-team All-District my first year at Parish Episcopal," Dial said before adding that another favorite memory she has with the team is "making it to the second round of playoffs."
A Bright Future
There's no doubt that Dial has a bright future ahead of her. Although she is currently not committed to a college program, she hasn't ruled out the possibility of playing basketball at the next level. "I am looking for a program to better develop as a player, where the team is like a family, everybody likes everybody, and I can feel comfortable as well as be myself."
Dial plans to major in kinesiology as she hopes to one day become a physical therapist.
Fun Questions
Who is your favorite professional sports team?
"Portland Trail Blazers."
Who do you look up to as an athlete?
"Damian Lillard."
If you could go to dinner with one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
"Steph Curry and family."
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