Colorful confetti falls from the stadium as sisters hear the final buzzer go off.
Their eyes are immediately drawn to each other – sure, the entire team is about to erupt in celebration – but for a moment, it hits them that this was their last game on the hardwood together.
At least, that’s what everyone in Sunnyslope Girls Basketball is hoping for this year.
Sophomore and Senior Shannon and Teagan McIlroy played in the ‘23-24 varsity season together, helping the team make it to the Elite 8.
The McIlroys are aiming for higher this year.
“Our whole team feels ready to win a state championship this year, and we have all built off of each other’s confidence, eager to make that happen,” said Teammate Junior Maggie Luba.
While the entire team brings hype to the pre-season conversation, the McIlroys have a touch of sorrow heading into this season.
“It makes me sad knowing it’s my last time being on the court with her [Shannon] but it also gives me a drive to make it a great year and end on a good note with her,” said Senior Teagan McIlroy.
Teagan is not the only one who is down about the end of her season; however; this only pushes her and her graduating teammates to finish the season off with a bang.
Not only for themselves, but for the team as a whole.
“It can be sad to think about it being her last season, but she’s worked very hard for everything she has. alongside me and Amelia. But, I’m really excited to see where this season takes us,” said Teammate Senior Kylie Rarrick.
As we watch the basketball team accelerate through their season, it’s important to see how the coach is feeling about Teagan graduating after four years of playing for her.
“For me, all kids that come into my life through school and basketball are special, and I have high hopes for them and their lives. Teagan has always been a special human being. Her calm nature and positive spirit are so valuable to have in a floor leader. If it were up to me, she would stick around forever,” said Varsity Basketball Coach Kristen Clyder.
Even though each player brings something to the table, Teagan has left an outstanding impact on the team.
Her characteristics are valuable, and they help her to act as a great leader.
Teagan’s leaving will also affect the team in a more practical way, creating opportunities for other girls on the court.
“T leaving after this season leaves a large hole that I am waiting to see others rise to the challenge to fill next year,” said Clyder.
As Teagan begins her last season with her beloved sister she looks back on their strong dynamic.
Many claim that these sisters work together like no other.
“They work so well together and their bond on the court is unmatched with their communication,” said Teammate Sophomore Jackie Wentworth.
This bond allows the McIlroys to contribute not only skill, but joy, to the sisterhood that is Sunnyslope Girls Basketball. .
Shannon recounted her favorite memory as “When me and Teagan were both going for a ball in California and both dove for it and both missed and fell on the ground, and the other team got the ball.” The McIlroys have been able to make unfortunate situations into the best memories.
Hopefully, they will make a permanent memory in winning the Open State Championship together for the first, and only, time.
