Western Sussex boys’ and girls’ basketball players have varying degrees of experience playing in the Governors Challenge basketball tournament. Some have never played in it and some are veterans.
“It’s fun, it’s a little nerve-racking. You’re playing teams you’ve never played before,” said Delmarva Christian senior Bella Marinelli.
Pictured (l to r) at the Governors Challenge media day in Salisbury are the Raiders’ Jayla Jones, coach Nicole Kenefick, and Jaida Plummer. Photo by Mike McClure
“It’s a great way to meet people,” teammate Layni Dukes added.
“It opens up the eyes to some of the girls. It’s something to look at to try and improve yourself,” said Delmarva Christian head coach Frank Roach. “Going to the Wicomico Civic Center tournament is big. It’s good team bonding.”
The Woodbridge girls’ basketball team is playing in the tournament for the first time. “The energy’s going to be crazy,” the Raiders’ Jayla Jones said.
Delmar is also playing in the Governors Challenge for the first time. “It’s exciting. It brings a new challenge for us to see how much we’ve grown,” said senior Tylah Brown. Teammate Dezjah Dutton said the team’s goal is also to win the games.
The local players have differing opinions on the tournament and playing in front of big crowds in larger arenas. “It’s not really any different than playing anywhere else,” Woodbridge’s Isaiah Giles said.
“It was a lot to take in at first. Once you hit the floor you’ll be all right, just another game,” said Laurel senior Kei’Shaun Copes. “It just gives us competition. There’s talent in the South but there’s a lot more talent in Maryland. If we can hang with the Maryland teams we can hang with the teams in the South.”
“It’s bigger experience playing on a bigger court,” Laurel’s Brock Hill added.
