Led in scoring by underclassmen Kamryn Richards and Addison Way, New Hartford Girls Basketball has high hopes for the 2026-2027 season.
Motivated by team chemistry and close friendships, these young athletes are ready to excel. These players have been competing together well before their high school careers, going all the way back to elementary school. This closeness is a major factor in the team’s current and future success.
“Team culture means creating an environment where players support each other, work hard, and hold themselves accountable,” Coach Richards said when asked about team culture. “It’s about respect, trust, and representing our school the right way every time we step on the court. Games can be won and lost as a result of team culture.”
Like every other season, these athletes will face adversity. One worry, shared between the team and coaches, is a lack of consistency.
This season the Lady Spartans have defeated talented double-A teams like Fayetteville-Manlius and Fulton but struggled to close out less challenging games.
Coach Richards’ mantra–“ten play as one”–has given these athletes motivation to play for each other rather than individually. This program also focuses on the importance of developing good teammates before good basketball players.
“I think we’re good at picking each other up and also we have shared goals as a team,” Junior Grace Lupino said. “This means a lot because it makes it easier to show up every day.”
Looking forward, New Hartford Girls basketball will have to look to returners for leadership. Sophomore captains Alexandra Mungari and Kamryn Richards have been key players the last few years.
With their high scoring abilities and experience under pressure, these athletes are more than capable of guiding their team to a section championship.
The freshman class is stacked with talent, as well. Point guard Addison Way is in her second year on Varsity and leading in assists with 67, while guards Hailey Schoener and Laney St. Croix are already making an impact in their first season.
“I see Laney St. Croix coming up as a true leader of this team, helping the team get through tough practices and games,” Senior Captain Kaitryn Pelnik-Wadsworth said.
The Lady Spartans finished the regular season with an 11-9 record.
