The Ridgeview High School girls’ basketball program is starting its season with teamwork, discipline, and dedication. As the players prepare for their upcoming season, every one of the student athletes has their own motivations on and off the court, showcasing the true meaning of being a part of the team. The basketball program at Ridgeview High School is much more than just a team, but a family where everyone encourages each other to do their best and support one another when down.

 Avia Mesa is a very dedicated basketball player who is deeply motivated by the support she receives from her teammates and coaches. Mesa says, “I just did it for fun to play with my friends, but I stuck around because I actually started loving the sport.” Mesa’s main goals for the season are to lead her team to victory and improve her offensive skills on the court. Mesa emphasizes the importance of teamwork and discipline, believing that these two contributions to the game are the key to achieving success. As the season approaches, Mesa and her teammates are aware of the challenging teams this year, such as Bakersfield Christian High School, due to their number of skilled players and such a good sports program. Mesa faces challenges through shared or mutual encouragement and support, cultivating a more positive attitude and a collaborative team. Mesa says, “I reach out to my teammates for support because we all support each other and ensure we’re all in the best mental states.” While Mesa is passionate and dedicated to basketball, she also keeps a disciplined mindset for her academic responsibilities by making sure she prioritizes her school work before and after practices, ensuring success on and off the court. Mesa appreciates all of the life lessons that she has learned while being a part of this team through teamwork and is constantly applying these principles in all parts of her life, showcasing her commitment to growing in both academics and athletics. 

After her first high school season of basketball, Lola Wyatt is a returning and promising player who brings hard work as well as determination to the team. Wyatt’s passion for basketball began with her father’s basketball career, which inspired her to follow in his footsteps. Her coaches and teammates, specifically referring to Akasia Jackson and Mes, motivate her because “They are very active in their school and make time for athletics while keeping up with school work.” Before games, Wyatt prepares herself and maintains focus by drinking an energy drink and listening to music. Wyatt emphasizes teamwork and communication, especially for tough and stronger teams. Wyatt sees Bakersfield Christian High School as the toughest team this season, but believes the team can overcome the challenge and beat them by using their communication and teamwork. Lola describes the basketball program as a family rather than a team and highlights Ridgeview’s motto, “One Pack, One Howl.”

Head Coach Eric Singleton has led the Ridgeview High School girls’ basketball team for four years now and brings passion, courage, and determination to this season’s group of girls. Singleton is a former Ridgeview basketball player and continued his career at Los Angeles Valley College. Singleton emphasizes consistency and union when reminding his players, “How you do anything is how you do everything.” This upcoming season, Singleton’s goals require improving their rebounding and finishing out close and tough games as he emphasizes their team motto, “Play together, stay together.” Coach Singleton appreciates and values chemistry and leadership within his players and educates them on having the specific mindset of “E plus R equals O,” which means, “Event plus Response equals Outcome.” Ultimately, Singleton is grateful for the bond of this unique group of girls and expresses how proud he feels as he recognizes their dedication to grow together.

As we prepare for the season, Ridgeview’s girls’ basketball team is preparing for their season with discipline and hard work. Regardless of the challenges the team may face this season, their determination and unity will help them overcome these battles together.