This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

Girls' Hoops Starts Season by Beating West Haven 33-19

The North Haven girls' basketball team started its season in triumphant fashion by earning a 33-19 win against West Haven on Dec. 11.

The Indians were led by 15 points, four rebounds, and two steals from Jill Johnson; six points, four boards, and four steals from Brie Melillo; plus six points by Julia Puzone.

North Haven held a 14-13 lead at halftime and then blew open the game in the third quarter by holding the Blue Devils scoreless.

"In the first half we came out a little tight, which is to be expected in a home opener. We were missing open shots and not taking good enough care of the ball. Fortunately, we still found ourselves up one at the half despite not playing our best on the offensive end due to a solid defensive performance," Coach Chris Barry said. "In the second half, we made some adjustments and the kids come out focused and more relaxed. We went 12-for-27 from the free throw line for the game, which needs to improve, however, we hit them down the stretch, which gave us some breathing room late in the game. Overall, the kids played hard and improved their play as the game went on."

The Indians then took a 47-36 defeat against Foran two nights later to stand at 1-1.

Johnson hit four threes and shot 7-of-9 from the line to score 27, along with snagging five steals. Melillo had five rebounds with three steals and played solid defense, as did Nina Poloukhine, Christina DeFalco, and Puzone.

"We dug ourselves a hole early, getting down 14-7 after a slow first quarter. Fortunately, we started hitting some shots and fought back to get within three after the first half," said Barry. "Jill Johnson had a fantastic game for us. She had a career-high 27 points and helped provide the spark to get us back into the game before the half. She played great all around."

-Chris Piccirillo