Northern Valley Demarest girls basketball is coming in hot for the 2025-2026 season with inspiring goals, and they’re pumped to dominate the competition. Not only are the blaring scoreboards, squeaks of sneakers, swishing nets, and roars of excitement returning to the gym, but a team of passionate, talented, and disciplined female athletes.
At the top of the roster is number 30, Gabriella Mittelman, a point guard; she is entering the game as the only senior on the team this year.
“I am really excited for this upcoming season. Since it is my final season I want to make sure that it is the best one yet by trying to make every moment count,” Mittelman said.
For the 2024-2025 season, NVD finished with their best record of 23 wins and 6 losses. So far, the girls have been preparing in the off-season to boost their record and strengthen their team. Take starting junior Deana Finkelstein, for example. She is putting in consistent effort to step into the season with confidence.
“I have been preparing for this season by going to our fall league games and open gyms. I have also been shooting on my own and training with a trainer,” Finkelstein said.
Furthermore, it’s apparent the girls have been reflecting on what they executed by the end of their previous season.
“Last season is a different one to remember. Our team accomplished a lot throughout the season. For example, we made the first ever county and state sectional finals appearance in school history,” Mittelman said.
In particular, Mittelman has her own goals up her sleeve, whether that is being a better team leader, improving her physical skills and/or communication.
“Because it is my senior year, a main goal of mine is to try to live in the moment as much as possible…I believe it is my responsibility to lead by example and help the underclassman adjust to our system. From a physical basketball perspective I want to improve upon my foul shooting and being a better active defender by getting more rebounds and steals,” Mittelman said.
From a junior’s viewpoint, Finkelstein’s plans for accomplishment are just as relatable.
“The most important part of working towards my goals is giving max effort every day. Being able to practice hard and succeed in the skills during practice will translate to the game because they become muscle memory,” Finkelstein said.
While basketball is heavily based on physical abilities and verbal communication, having an open and healthy mindset is a key focus for the basketball stars.
“I have definitely had tough times during basketball season because it has been stressful and I have felt like I haven’t been contributing enough to the team, but I have had a good mental status because I have the support of my family, teammates, and coaches, and just love for the game,” Finkelstein said.
The players also share a common goal: they want to create secure relationships with their teammates.
“I believe that building relationships with your teammates is vital for team success. Building team chemistry can be crafted in various ways both on and off the court. From practices, to bus rides, to team pasta dinners it is important to have positive relationships with your teammates,” Mittelman said.
Overall, personal goals are essential for improvement and growing as an athlete. At Northern Valley Demarest, the girls varsity basketball team is ready to work hard.
“I have a really great feeling about this season and I’m super excited,” Finkelstein said.
