Last season the Regals basketball team earned a trip to the NCAA Division III basketball playoffs.  This year, the Regals hope to repeat their success.

On Saturday, Nov. 17, the Regals began the 2012-2013 season with a bang as they crushed the Bethesda University Flames in a 101-39 victory in the Gilbert Sports Arena.

The Regals wanted to get a fast start to their season by taking a 14-point lead to open the ballgame.

The seven Regal seniors had a big impact on the day, which they hope will be representative of what to expect this season.

Last year’s results left the team wanting more.

“I want a conference title and I know my seniors do, too,” said senior guard Erica Whitley. “It would mean a lot to the team to earn a SCIAC title, not just the tournament title. I want the whole thing.”

During the Regals’ game against the Flames, Whitley scored 23 points.

“It always feels good to win, but we are already looking toward our next few games. We played hard and I’m proud of the team. We’ve just got to keep the momentum,” said Whitley.

Senior guard and forward combo Starla Wright contributed to the victory by scoring 14 points and grabbing 16 rebounds.

Wright thinks a successful season is in the future for this squad.

“I’m really not the psychic type, but I think our team is going to perform well this season,” said Wright.

“We’ve got a good group of seniors who still work hard every practice to make our team better. We’re looking forward to winning SCIAC and returning to the NCAA tournament.”

The Regals were taken by surprise when they faced off against No. 2 George Fox.  Ironically, George Fox was the team that knocked the Regals out of the playoffs last season.  This year they didn’t fair any better, falling to them 75-44.

These beginning season games are guaranteed to give the Regals the experience they need for the soon-to-be competitive season.

The Regals know it will be a long and difficult season throughout SCIAC play.

They are returning with several players and have only one freshman.

With such a veteran team they are a preseason favorite to win a conference title.

“For the upcoming season, I see us being a contender for the SCIAC conference title. I am excited to see what the season brings because we have a veteran team,” said Whitley.

“I know it’s going to be a tough and long season, but we’re ready for it.”

Brina Clark
Staff Writer
Published Nov. 28, 2012