Windward 10th grader Marianna Stasinos excels in tennis and track, but she also shined for the Wildcats basketball team this year, too.

Incredibly, she did it without taking a single shot.

Stasinos played a pivotal role as manager of the girls varsity basketball team.

She was already juggling academics and athletics, but helping the basketball team extended Stasinos’ dedication to Windward athletes beyond her own pursuits.

“As their manager, I work closely with the team and the coaches to organize and prepare them for their games,” she explained. Her role involves planning and coordination to ensure the team is ready to face any challenges that come their way.

Over winter break, the team went on an exciting journey to Phoenix, Arizona, participating in the Nike Tournament of Champions – a gathering of 128 teams from across the USA.

The Windward girls basketball team at the Tournament of Champions. Photo by Marianna Stasinos.

Reflecting on the experience, Marianna shared, “We placed 2nd in our bracket. We were able to showcase our fantastic talent to tons of college scouts and showed up and out every day.”

The trip was not just about games; it was a test of resilience, friendship, and teamwork.

The players, for one, appreciated her effort.

“Mar would always fill our water bottles and grab coaches chair—even when she was not asked—and she never complained,” said Julianna Samarge (’26). “When we needed anything she would always have the urgency to go and get it. She was also always eager to learn and watch our team play, always talking about how she loved watching. And she fit in with the team incredibly well. Everyone loves her.”

Marianna described the team’s high spirits and their collective commitment to growth. Despite the inevitable ups and downs in each game, the basketball team displayed exceptional teamwork, communicating effectively on and off the court.

It led to team success.

Windward’s girls basketball team finished the season 20-7, were runners up in the Gold Coast League and made it to the playoffs.

“I am so grateful the girls accepted me into the team with the warmest welcome,” Marianna said, expressing her gratitude. It’s clear that being part of this team means more than just playing basketball —it’s about forming connections, fostering growth, and looking towards a promising future.”