by Reese Price

The girls’ and boys’ basketball teams left the court for the last time this season.

The girls’ and boys’ basketball teams’ seasons came to an end as GS wrapped up the winter sports seasons. The girls’ team competed in WPIAL 5A Section II, a challenging section with many top competitors. The boys’ team was also in a competitive section, which was WPIAL 4A Section II.

“I tried my hardest and gave it my all on the court this season,” senior Mya Heasley said. “I will miss the team and the tight bonds we have because I’ve been playing with some of them for most of my basketball career.”

The girls’ team had a competitive start to their season, playing a few non section games against Franklin Regional and Mt. Pleasant, two well ranked non section teams. Over the course of the season they also traveled and hosted in season tournaments at GS.

 “We played well in the tournaments this season,” Heasley said. “Having the opportunities to play those extra games was really fun.”

Junior Sophie Beckerleg and sophomore Bella Dinkel both won All Tournament Team medals at the tip-off tournament at the beginning of the season hosted at GS. They both were recognized at half court for their efforts in contributing to GS basketball success. Throughout the season Dinkel played guard and Heasley played as the point guard and main ball handler for GS. 

“As a guard I really like giving my teammates the opportunities to score,” Dinkel said. “I like to score just as much as I like to see my teammates succeed.” 

As the season went on, leading into January and February, the Lady Lions battled in close contests within section play. The girls played Penn Trafford, Latrobe, Indiana, Kiski Area, McKeesport and West Mifflin. This season featured many returning players who helped shape the team and contribute to its success. 

Senior Mya Heasley dribbles the ball up the court.

Photo Courtesy: Talan Price

“Penn Trafford and Indiana were high ranked teams we haven’t beaten and sometimes only fell a couple points short to, so it’s always a battle between them,” she said.

Head Coach Mr. Rick Klimchock, who has coached at GS since 2017, announced his retirement at the conclusion of the season. Mr. Klimchock also helps his son, Head Mens’ Basketball Coach at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, with games and practices and plays a tremendous part in his community.

“GS girls’ basketball has been a huge part of my life,” Klimchock said. “I love working with high school, middle school and elementary players. Creating relationships has been so important to me.”

The boys’ basketball team also had success this season going 10-11 overall and 5-7 in conference play, leading them to playoffs. The boys finished fifth in the section and continued to show growth and determination all season. The boys opened their season playing highly competitive teams like Hempfield and Greensburg Central Catholic, helping them prepare for the intensity of their conference play.

“We started preparing for our season last March with workouts and games,” Head Boys’ Basketball Coach Mr. Paul Sapotichne said. “Most of my key players started to prepare months and months ago.”

Throughout the season, they faced several setbacks due to injuries that forced players to step into unfamiliar roles and adjust to new lineups. While these injuries created challenges for consistency, they also allowed younger players to see the court and contribute to the games. The team remained focused and continued to compete against tough section opponents including Penn Trafford, Latrobe, Indiana, Kiski Area, McKeesport and West Mifflin. 

“I got through my injuries with pure will to play,” senior Justice Castaneda-Payne said. “I couldn’t have done it without the guys and especially our trainers.”

As the season progressed, they emphasized teamwork, defensive effort and composure in close and challenging games. The group steadily improved their chemistry on the court as they approached the final stretch of their schedule. Their ability to stay united during difficult games became a defining factor of their season.

“I think we’ve had great chemistry and connection this season because of how many years we’ve been playing together,” senior Ty Harkcom said.

Senior Ty Harkcom shoots a free throw as the GS Salem Psychos watch.

Photo Courtesy: Talan Price

Five seniors played an important role in leading the team both on and off the court, helping younger teammates adjust to varsity play when needed. 

“I think this is the best final season I could have had,” Harkcom said. “We made playoffs and broke the five win curse.”

With the regular season complete, the boys prepared to face Hopewell in the first round of playoff competition. The team focused on perfecting their plays, improving execution, and staying disciplined on defense. On Feb. 13, the boys fell short to Hopewell, losing 74-49. 

“I am very proud of our team and players,” Sapotichne said. “We had many films of Hopewell, and all of the coaching staff watched their games and prepared a game plan.”