Mountainview girls look to depth to propel squad to postseason glory | GIRLS BASKETBALL

By Shawn Skager • December 1, 2010 7:53 pm
Sophomore Aalia Braboy muscles between two Black Hills defenders during a nonleague game.
Sophomore Aalia Braboy muscles between two Black Hills defenders during a nonleague game.

Depth is the key word for the Auburn Mountainview girls basketball team this season.

With a roster stocked with talented juniors, most with significant playing time last season, the Lions present coach Chris Carr with a unique opportunity.

“It’s interesting because we’re kind of young, but experienced,” Carr said. “All of the starters are juniors. We’ve got three sophomores who will play a significant role of the bench. We’re not afraid to go 10 kids deep.”

Last season Mountainview finished 15-8. The Lions, led by post Stephanie Smolinski.

The Lions again will look to the post to propel them through the South Puget Sound League 3A and, hopefully, onto the state 3A tourney, with juniors Hattie Kosko and Caitlin Carr picking up where Smolinski left off.

“These are the best two post (players) we’ve had in a long time,” Carr said. “Hattie steps right in and is a real presence. I don’t think we lose anything with Hattie stepping in.

“Obviously, Smo’ (Smolinski) was the best rebounder, and Hattie needs to step up to that level, rebounding wise,” Carr added. “But our posts are our strength.”

Joining Carr and Kosko is 5-foot-9 sophomore guard Aalia Braboy, an improved player with experience.

“She has made a lot strides. Her free throws are a lot better. Her outside shot is a lot better,” Carr said. “She kind of the bull in the China shop. She’s a powerful kid. That’s how she plays.”

The Lions also will look for contributions from junior guards Erika Lombardo and Shayla Wolf this season.

With a roster stocked with talent, Carr said the key is getting the players to gel on the court early.

“What it’s going to come down to with this group is how cohesive they are willing to be,” he said. “We’ve got 10 kids who can play a role.”

Senior Tayla Alfrey will help show the way.

“She’s a great captain,” Carr said. “She’s our only senior.”

The Lions opened the season with a 63-45 nonleague win against Black Hills on Tuesday. Caitlin Carr led the Lions with 22 points, with Kosko adding 15 and Braboy 10.

Auburn Mountainview will host Highline at 5:15 p.m. Wednesday.