Friday, October 2, 2026
The North Babylon girls basketball team has experienced a season of highs, challenges, and resilience, showing flashes of its potential while battling through adversity.
Under the guidance of head coach Matt Giannelli, the Bulldogs have put together a 6-7 overall record and stand 4-6 in league, remaining firmly in the mix for a postseason push as the second half of the season unfolds.
North Babylon came out strong early, starting 5-2 and picking up several impressive wins. The Bulldogs’ first win came on Dec. 4, with a hard-fought 53–48 victory over West Babylon, led by junior captain Olivia Rush’s 22-point performance. Junior guard Kamryn Fells added 11 points, providing a key spark in the backcourt. Just days later, North Babylon continued its momentum with a 54-43 win over Half Hollow Hills West on Dec. 9, as Rush once again led the way with 23 points while fellow captain Yonni Pernell chipped in 13.
The Bulldogs’ offensive firepower was on full display in a Dec. 11 matchup against Newfield, where North Babylon cruised to a 64-46 win. Rush poured in a season high 29 points, and Dakota Rivers contributed 15 in a balanced team effort. Defense took center stage on Dec. 19, when North Babylon held Sachem North to just 28 points in a 40–28 victory. Rivers led the scoring with 10 points in the gritty, defensive-minded contest.
One of the most notable wins of the season came on Dec. 22, when North Babylon defeated Connetquot 58-51. Rush scored 23 points, Rivers added 14, and Fells finished with 12, showcasing the Bulldogs’ ability to spread the scoring load. Later in the season, on Jan. 21, North Babylon once again topped Newfield, 64-35, behind a dominant 20-point performance from Pernell and 14 points from Rush.
Despite the strong start, the Bulldogs have faced significant challenges, losing five of their last six games. Injuries have played a major role in the midseason struggles, but Giannelli remains confident in his team’s outlook.
“It’s been an injury filled season so far which has been a challenge but we’re still in position to make a playoff run here in the second half,” he said.
Leadership has been a constant positive, with captains Pernell, Rivers, and Rush setting the tone on and off the court. “Yonni, Dakota, and Olivia have done such a great job leading everyone and keeping the motivation levels high,” Giannelli said. “The players’ enthusiasm hasn’t missed a beat.”
The Bulldogs have also benefited from contributions by younger players, particularly freshman guards Asia Turpin and Zoiey Maith. “Asia and Zoiey have really stepped up and made big impacts for our team,” Giannelli noted. “It’s really nice to see our 9th graders get involved in a positive way.”
As the season hits the stretch run, North Babylon remains focused and determined.
“We are going to work hard no matter what,” Giannelli said. “The message to the team is that all of our goals are still in front of us so let’s go make a run.”
