By Alexandra Gutierrez | Photo by Shelby Royer

Every year the varsity basketball teams travel to the Pasadena Invitational and hope to earn their spot in the winner’s circle.

On Nov. 17, the teams left campus with big hopes in mind. Through the tournament on Nov. 18-19, girls varsity won four of the five games they played and placed third in the gold bracket, the highest ranking bracket at the tournament.

“It felt great to be able to play gold finally,” sophomore Samantha Free said. “To finally be able to reach that goal.”

The tournament takes place during pre-season, which is fortunate for the players and coaches because they’re able to rank their themselves against some of the best teams from around the state.

“I think it showed us what we’re capable of,” head coach Tracy Hastings said.

In past years, the girls have placed three times at Pasadena and placed third at the NEISD tournament this year.

“We lost one game but it made us feel better about the team and each other,” junior Brianna Alcibar said. “Like we could win the tournament next year.”

The team is looking for a winning season and hope to do well in district, that starts Dec. 16. Girls varsity will be playing their next pre-season game on Dec. 6 at East Central.

“I think we’ll end up on top and we’ll work together for playoffs,” Free said.