Public League squads
hoping to score success

By Melissa Yerkov
Times Sports Editor
As usual, the four girls basketball squads in Northeast Philadelphia — Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Frankford, and Northeast high schools — are looking to be strong contenders in this year’s Public League.
One constant seems to be rosters that are showcasing young players with plenty of potential this year. Who will make it? And who will break?

ABRAHAM LINCOLN
Despite having just one senior on this year’s basketball squad, Lincoln High’s Railsplitters are hopeful that the talents of younger players can overcome a loss of experience.
"We’re a very young team," said coach Mike Turchi. "But we have a very strong defense and a great ability to fill in the lane with our speed."
Leading the way will be team captain Amanda Donaldson, who is quite capable at both guard and forward. She will be accompanied by a pair of freshmen guards — and twin sisters — Nesertitti and Nesertirri Huckaby. Forward Sabrini Boulaare and center Paige Medlar will round out the Railsplitters’ starting lineup.
Also seeing some time on the court will be center Tatiana Felder, forward Semiana Badnjevic and guard Gabrielle Beltz.
"We’re working hard," said Turchi, now in his fifth year of coaching at Lincoln. "We want more of a team game than individuals. We’re looking to progress as the season develops."

GEORGE WASHINGTON
There are a lot of new faces on the Washington High girls squad this year.
"We have a lot of girls who haven’t played Public League basketball ever before," said coach Marvin Carter. "So it’s been a rough road, but we’re improving every day."
Leading the way is senior forward Taesha Smith. She will be joined on the front court by Kayce McElroy, Nicole Henderson and Simbiaz Owodonni — who also can be found playing center.
Guards include Brittany Collier, Veranicce Hires and freshman Jazmyne Ellzy.
Freshman Amber Dinardi will handle center responsibilities.
"The girls are very enthusiastic," said Carter. "They really enjoy playing together. We’re hoping for a competitive season."

FRANKFORD
The Frankford High School basketball squad has a nice mix of age and experience this year — giving the Pioneers a lot of versatility.
"We have a lot of great leaders," said Dave Cebular, who took on coaching duties after Jim McCabe’s retirement last year. "And we have some very talented underclassmen too."
Senior center Fatimah Brand leads the team as captain this year. She’ll be joined on the court by forward Najaah Haynes, a sophomore transfer student from George Washington High School.
Guards include Bionne Harris, Brittany Smith and Wayneisha Griffin.
Also seeing some playing time with the Pioneers are Jessica Rivera, Shanika McCloud, guard Sabrina Brinkley and forward Zsahnia Jones.
"The girls are working hard and playing well together," said Cebular. "Our goal right now is to be the best team that we can be and hopefully make the playoffs."

NORTHEAST
Enjoying both talent and experience, the Northeast High School girls basketball team is looking to be a strong contender in this year’s Public League.
Senior guard Peaches Nesmith — who recently signed to play basketball at Lock Haven University next year — will lead the Vikings. She will be joined on the back court by fellow guard Alicia Flannigan and Janaiah Elum. Forwards include seniors Satoria Bell and Anna Coleman.
Freshman Crystal Ross — a 6-foot-2 center — and senior guard Desjenee Davis will also see plenty of time on the court.
"To me, the senior leadership this year is one of our greatest strengths," said coach Rich Kirk. "The whole team is playing hard. I’m moving kids around and trying different girls at different positions, but they’re ready to go." ••
Sports editor Melissa Yerkov can be reached at 215-354-3035 or myerkov@phillynews.com