The calendar said February, but Week 11 delivered pure March Madness across Holliston’s gymnasiums. The drama peaked with Mia Fosberg’s game-winning bucket with nine seconds left, giving the 5th Grade Girls (Red) another heart-stopper—their seventh game decided by three points or less this season, proving this team lives for the big moment. The 6th Grade Boys (Red) matched that intensity with the comeback of the year, erasing a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit to stun division-leading Lincoln-Sudbury 38-37 in a finish that had Adams Gymnasium erupting. Overtime magic belonged to the 7th Grade Girls (Red), who outlasted Needham 26-22 behind Ryckie Reichheld’s clutch putback and Ellie Brown’s buzzer-beating floater that sealed the deal. Individual brilliance shone through career performances—Lyla Wisner’s 16-point explosion for the 4th Grade Girls (White), Anna Marie DellaRocca’s matching 16-point breakout for the 5th Grade Girls (White), and Max Burian’s season-high 18 points in the 5th Grade Boys (Red) win over Hopkinton. The ultimate heart award went to Coach Keller’s 8th Grade Boys (Black), who played all 32 minutes with just five players and held a lead against Westborough before the full-court press finally wore them down. Game-winners, overtime classics, career nights, and five-man heroics—playoff basketball arrived a week ahead of schedule.
GIRLS:
4th Grade Girls (White)
Coach: Marien
Holliston continued its strong late-season push on Sunday, earning a 22–12 win over Southboro behind gritty defense, quick-strike transition play, and their most efficient ball movement of the season.
The offense was headlined by a career performance from Lyla Wisner (16 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 7 steals). Wisner attacked the rim throughout the game, finishing in traffic and cleaning up on the glass to power Holliston’s scoring. She got support from Liliana Brown (4 points, 1 rebound, 1 steal), and from Cassidy Cicciarella (2 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 7 steals), who added a basket and repeatedly kept possessions alive with her activity.
One of the defining storylines was Holliston’s passing. The team posted a season-high 6 assists, led by Iris Smith (2 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block), who consistently found teammates from the interior and helped trigger scoring opportunities.
Defensively, the group again set a high standard, holding an opponent to 12 points and staying in line with the low-scoring totals they have allowed across much of the regular season. Riley Marien (1 rebound, 2 steals, 1 block), and Molly Nechev (1 rebound, 2 steals) contributed additional stops and pressure.
With their second straight victory and continued growth in both defense and playmaking, Holliston now turns its attention to the regular-season finale on Saturday at home against Westwood.
Next game: Sunday at home vs. Westwood
4th Grade Girls (Red)
Coach: King
The Holliston 4th Grade Girls Team King made it four wins in a row with an impressive early morning road victory in Arlington. The Panthers brought energy and focus from the opening tip, playing strong, composed defense and crashing the boards to secure a 15–8 win. Sloane Miller set the tone early with a dominant performance on the glass while adding three points. Adriana Dello-Iacono got the offense rolling with four early points, and Jaquet chipped in four of her own. Maya Bernstein and Dev King each added a bucket to round out the scoring effort. Defensively, the Panthers were outstanding. Hannah Kane played tough defense down low, while Natalie Negri and Dev King applied relentless pressure in the backcourt. Rose Weinberg and Kate Robertson battled hard in the post, working for open looks offensively and disrupting Arlington’s rhythm with numerous tipped passes on defense. It was a true team win on the road, highlighted by unselfish play and strong defensive effort throughout. With the victory, the girls improve to 6–5 on the season as they head into their final regular season game next week against Southborough. Good luck to all the teams as the season wraps up and playoffs begin!
Next games: Sunday at home vs. Southborough
5th Grade Girls (White)
Coach: Ennis
The Holliston White team traveled to Southboro this past Sunday.
In the first quarter, the ladies displayed exceptional defensive pressure, allowing only four points. They effectively controlled the passing lanes and secured jump ball tie-ups. Alaina Chaufty was instrumental in the team’s success, scoring four of her ten points, grabbing six rebounds, and stealing four balls.
The second quarter saw a back-and-forth battle between the two teams. The Holliston ladies held a halftime lead of 16-10. Charlotte Ewell had a productive quarter, contributing three offensive rebounds and a layup. Charlotte Donohue also scored four points, securing two offensive rebounds. Harper Sochanek played outstanding defense, creating several jump ball opportunities.
In the third quarter, the ladies maintained their defensive pressure on Southboro, setting the tone for the second half. Brighton Swenson led the team with eight rebounds and three steals. She also provided a few assists during the fast break runs, helping the ladies regain their scoring momentum. Sarah Cullen continued to improve her game, grabbing three rebounds.
In the fourth quarter, the Holliston ladies focused on their defensive end, employing help defense. On the offensive end, they were still learning to work together effectively. Lily Ennis made one of two free throws. She also contributed to controlling the defensive glass with seven rebounds, two steals, and two assists to Anna Marie DellaRocca. DellaRocca had an exceptional game, scoring a career-high 16 points, grabbing five rebounds, stealing three balls, and blocking two shots.
The Holliston White team emerged victorious with a score of 33-24. The girls demonstrated a well-rounded performance on both sides of the court.
Next game: Sunday vs. Newton (away)
5th Grade Girls (Red)
Coach: Cooper
Mia Fosberg was signing autographs post-game after Fosberg drained the game winning basket with 9 seconds left to give the 5th Grade Girls Red team a huge late season victory over Medfield. The Panthers won the game 27-24 after additional 2 free throws by Catherine Levasseur. Fosberg finished the game with 5 points, 5 steals, and two clutch free throws of her own. Fosberg’s heroics was nothing new to the 5th Grade Girls Red team, making this the 7th game of the season decided by less then 3 points.
Despite the outcome, it was a tough start for the Panthers who simply came out flat. Medfield led 16-6 at halftime and the Panthers dug within to turn things around in the second half. It started with Catherine Levasseur who scored 15 second half points (18 total) to bring the Panthers right back in the game. In the remaining 2 minutes of the game, Addie Cicciarella hit a clutch free throw to keep the game within 3 points, and Reagan Taylor dominated the paint in the 4th quarter hauling down 4 rebounds in the 4th quarter along. Sadie Adamson and Madeline Cooper each scored 2 points to go along with a combined 8 assists. Jaxy Mix contributed on both ends of the court, finishing with 4 steals and 3 rebounds. With 7 games now decided by 3 points or less, this team pines for pressure and are primed for a playoff run as they close out the regular season next against Norwood.
Next game: Sunday home vs. Norwood
6th Grade Girls (White)
Coach: Wing
The 6th grade girls (white) travel team had a home game this weekend vs. Milford and walked away with an awesome win!
The Panthers came in hot and kept the heat on the entire game. It’s great to see these girls really coming together as a team after a rough start to the season. Improvements all around and each and every player coming into their own. Pretty cool to watch the transformation of these girls and you can feel the shift in confidence when they’re out on the court. A little confidence can go a long way!
Olivia Darling played strong defense and continues to set killer screens in every game. Olivia Wing, Izzy Bartels and Willa Drummey worked the good ‘ol “give and go” and had several successful goes of it. Amelia Parker had numerous break aways and was able to sink several layups and jump shots. Julia O’Shaughnessy played aggressive defense and her speed and determination allowed her to sink a perfect “follow-up” 2 pointer. Willa Drummey and Signe Strand’s aggressive rebounding and prime placement on the court led to each player putting down 6 points.
Nora Corcoran played great defense, blocking multiple shots and attempted many steals. Maddie Joe Charette was also strong under the hoop as she battled for several jump balls.
The girls put on a good show vs. Milford and should be proud of this win. The Panthers wrap up their season next weekend vs. Westwood and if they bring the same fire, hopefully we’ll end the season with another win!
Next game: Sunday vs. Westwood (away)
6th Grade Girls (Black)
Coach: King
After a long layoff due to a canceled game, vacation week, and canceled practice, the Holliston 6th grade girls returned to action on the road, dropping a hard-fought battle to a talented Wellesley team. Despite falling behind early, the Panthers showed resilience and determination, clawing their way back into the game with intense defense and a disruptive full-court press that forced multiple turnovers. Short-handed due to injuries, several players stepped up to log extra minutes and maintain high energy throughout the contest. Winnie McHugh was a standout performer, leading the way with 11 points and dominating in the post. Olive Bennett also turned in a strong all-around effort, contributing 6 points while running the point, grabbing key rebounds, and playing solid defense. Katelyn Klein added 5 points with strong drives to the hoop and a beautiful outside shot. Izzy Bartels (2 points), Millie Guellnitz, Brooke McGrath, and Willa Drummey anchored the defense with multiple tipped passes and steady pressure. Richa Yedugani (2 points) ran the point with confidence and helped disrupt the Wellesley offense. While the Panthers ultimately came up short, they demonstrated grit and intensity in a tough, competitive matchup. Though a road win would have been nice to steal, the girls gained valuable experience and are eager to return to practice this week with two games ahead this weekend against Hopkinton and Bellingham. Best of luck to all teams!
Next games:
Saturday at home vs. Hopkinton
Sunday at home vs. Bellingham
7th Grade Girls (Red)
Coach: Cooper
It was a game for the ages for the 7th Grade Girls Red Team in a remarkable overtime road win over Needham, 26-22. A game that saw 9 lead changes and a tough Needham full court press did not deter Holliston from putting in their best game of the season. The all-around team effort from the Panthers produced a combined 11 baskets off assists and a season high for the team with 23 total steals. Charley Marcuard led the way with 10 points, 5 assists, and 5 steals to be a constant presence the Panthers needed.
In the back-and-forth game, Needham went up 22-20 with 59 seconds left in regulation, but a Emma Sochanek bucket off Holliston’s full court press evened the game to send it to overtime. In the overtime with a score of 22-22, it was Ryckie Reichheld’s turn to play hero, who came down with a massive offensive rebound and put back to move Holliston ahead by two. The tide clearly turned after Reichheld’s go ahead basket 1:24 remaining, as Needham could not break Holliston’s press. The icing on the cake in the overtime came from Ellie Brown who hit a 7-foot floater as the buzzer sounded to secure the Holliston win, 26-22. Brown and Sochanek each finished the day with 6 points and Reichheld notched 4 points of her own. Brown also added 4 assists.
The team welcomed Sam Baweja back from a foot injury which certainly sparked the team’s spirits. Emma Whitehead added 3 assists and 4 steals on the day, while Ruby Smith and Aila Howden combined for 11 rebounds. Kendall Hanlon played her consistent game finishing with 3 assists, 5 rebounds, and 4 steals. The team is gearing up for the last week of the regular season with a double header next weekend vs Walpole and Milton
Next games:
Saturday at home vs. Walpole
Sunday vs. Milton (away)
8th Grade Girls (Red)
Coach: McAdams
Holliston 8th Grade Girls Outlast Lincoln-Sudbury in Thrilling 34–27 Win
The Holliston 8th grade girls basketball team delivered an exciting, hard-fought victory, pulling away in the second half to defeat Lincoln-Sudbury 34–27 in a thrilling matchup that showcased balanced scoring, relentless defense, and dominant rebounding.
The game was tightly contested from the opening tip, with both teams trading baskets and playing tough defense. By halftime, neither side could gain separation, and the score was deadlocked at 20–20, setting the stage for a dramatic second half.
Holliston found another gear after the break, fueled by strong defensive pressure and control of the boards. Ella Bennett led the charge with an outstanding all-around performance, finishing with 14 points, five steals, and two assists. Bennett’s ability to score while disrupting Lincoln-Sudbury’s offense proved to be a turning point as Holliston gradually built a lead.
Avery Palma added four points and three steals, helping to ignite late game fast breaks and keep the defensive intensity high. Audrey Mancuso provided a steady presence inside, knocking down two mid-range jumpers for four points while hauling in eight rebounds.
Holliston’s dominance on the glass was a major factor in the win. Jackie Schiavoni turned in a standout defensive effort, scoring four points while grabbing an impressive 12 rebounds and consistently shutting down opposing scorers. Gwen Miranda also played a crucial role, contributing four points and six rebounds to help Holliston control possession.
Addy McAdams rounded out the scoring with four points and three steals, providing energy on both ends of the floor as Holliston closed out the game.
With disciplined defense, unselfish play, and a strong second-half performance, Holliston pulled away late to secure the 34–27 victory. The win was a complete team effort and a testament to the group’s resilience after a tightly contested first half, giving the Holliston 8th grade girls another memorable performance to build on.
Next game: Sunday vs. Dover/Sherborn (away)
BOYS:
5th Grade Boys (White)
Coach: Peterson
Early Sunday morning, Holliston squared off with a formidable Hopkinton squad in a defensive battle. Hopkinton managed to carve out a slim 19-12 advantage deep into the third quarter, with Holliston’s defensive pressure and hustle keeping things within striking distance. Ultimately, Hopkinton found another gear late, outscoring the Panthers 16-2 over the final 10 minutes of game time to pull away for a 35-14 victory.
Charlie Ogoreuc and Henry Paine played with strength and determination, scoring 4 points apiece to go along with 6 and 7 rebounds, respectively. JT Barry chipped in four points and two steals, providing steady energy, and Finn Rogers used his quickness and instincts to secure four key rebounds in traffic. Leo Patka’s impact went beyond the box score, as his selfless, physical screen game consistently freed teammates for quality looks.
Oskar Peterson and Benjamin Leach were a force on the defensive end, with Oskar pulling down seven rebounds and swiping four steals while adding two points on 3 trips to the charity stripe, and Benjamin collecting four steals to go along with two boards, an assist, and a block in a gritty all-around effort.
The Panthers will look to carry that same intensity into next week, when they close out the regular season with a 10:40AM morning tilt at Milton.
Next game: Sunday vs. Milton (away)
5th Grade Boys (Red)
Coach: Flannery
As Team USA Hockey squared off against rival Team Canada, another heated battle was occurring at the Adams Middle School gym Sunday morning. A MetroWest border war was taking place as the 5th Grade Boys Holliston Red squad faced off against a bunch of tough and talented Hopkinton Hillers. Thankfully, just as Team USA pulled out a win for the Gold, our Holliston boys emerged with a 31-18 victory.
Holliston enjoyed a slim lead at half time, 15-14, and used stout second half defense to gradually pull away. Between Hopkinton going cold from the floor and the Panthers defensive effort, the Hillers were limited to only 4 second half points. Max Burian paced Holliston with an offensive explosion. He scored with athletic drives to the hoop and dead eye jump shots to race to a season high of 18 points (3 rebounds). Keegan Flannery narrowly missed out on a double-double finishing with 11 points and 9 rebounds. He also finished with an astounding 5 blocked shots. Reid Polack returned to action after missing the previous Sunday and he was his usual Evel Knievel daredevil self on the court. Reid finished with 2 points, 5 fouls and a giant smile as he exited the game. Also returning to action after missing time were the duo of Cole Butler Reichheld (2 rebounds) and Max Page (3 rebounds). Both contributed valuable minutes off the bench, locking down the Hillers defensively. Jayce Sweet (2 rebounds) and Jameson Drake (2 rebounds) brought tons of hustle and battled all morning long. The team sits on a 6-4 record as they continue to build momentum for the playoffs. The regular season comes to an end next Sunday as the squad hosts Southborough.
Next game: Sunday vs. Southborough
6th Grade Boys (Red)
Coach: Gum
After a long layoff due to February break, the Holliston 6th Grade Boys (Red) team took the court of the Robert Adams Jungle this past Sunday for their final home game of the season looking for their 8th win in a row against 1 loss and top of the division Lincoln-Sudbury (LS) (White). Having not practiced in a week due to the February break, the boys came out excited to play and be back together, but a little rusty to start the game. Points were hard to come by in the first half, but Dylan Maillet had a real nice “and 1” when he drove into traffic, hit his layup and then hit his free throw. Some frustration by LS because of Holliston’s tenacious play led to a technical foul. Max Cohen stepped to the line to take the shots and hit one of the two shots. Harrisson Cirilo scored 5 of his 8 total points, Tyler Crean scored 8 of his 10 total points in the first half and Yamori Richardson played great team offense facilitating nice passes throughout the perimeter. LS did a great job in breaking the Holliston press and was able to hit many of their first half shots and entered halftime up 24-21. The second half was a tale of two quarters. The boys did a nice job of playing tough defense holding LS to only 9 3rd quarter points, but Holliston was only able to muster 2 points of their own on a nice corner two by George Taylor. Going into the 4th quarter, the boys from Holliston were down by 10 points but were determined to play hard to the end. Offensively Grady Gum took over the 4th quarter, scoring 6 points mostly on hard underneath layups into traffic. Darian Harris, playing with 4 fouls, played out of this world defense which led to two steals, and he pulled down 3 of his 6 rebounds in the 4th quarter. Andrew Levasseur played great team defense and scored two of his 4 points in the fourth quarter. Finally, fourth quarter blocks by Tyler and George helped in the comeback effort. As the seconds ticked away and Holliston clinging to a 1-point lead, LS forced a turnover at half court and had a chance for a last minute heave, but fortunately for resilient 6GB Red team, the ball fell well short of the hoop and the boys from Holliston completed the comeback win with a final score of 38-37. Holliston hits the road to close out the regular season with a pair of games. First, Saturday February 28th at 6PM at Lincoln-Sudbury (Red). Then the season finale at Wayland Sunday, March 1st at 3PM. Hope to see you there!
Next games:
Saturday (2/28) vs. Lincoln-Sudbury (away) 6PM.
Sunday (3/1) vs. Wayland (away) 3PM.
8th Grade Boys (Black)
Coach: Keller
Leo Wagner, Nolan Burke, Nick Gorham, Noah Keller and Stone Secaur played the full 32 minutes with all five deserving players of the game awards for their fight, determination and teamwork from tip to the final buzzer. Despite playing with just five and going against a Division 5 opponent, Holliston led until Westborough initiated a full-court press which shifted the game in Westboro’s favor and Holliston could not recover. Nolan Burke scored 9; Leo Wagner and Nick Gorham added 8, while Stone Secaur dropped 4. Holliston closes the regular season with a busy week: taking on Parkway Wednesday evening, and a day-night doubleheader on Saturday against Framingham and Westboro.
Next games:
Saturday (double header) vs. Framingham (away) and vs. Westborough (away)
