Latin’s girls varsity basketball put on a dominant performance Friday night against rival Francis W. Parker in the Big Games held at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Pavillion. Latin defeated Parker 63-13, improving their season record to 14-7.

Junior Teagan Moroney struck first as the Romans quickly took a 6-0 lead and never looked back. By the end of the first quarter, they were up 22-2, and at the half, they led 41-5. As seen all season, the Romans are not a team to take their foot off the gas; the game marked the seventh time this season that the Romans have beaten an opponent by more than 27 points.

Latin’s comfortable lead showcased the team’s talent and teamwork. “I think we played really well as a team together,” senior and captain Roya Smith said. “We passed the ball really well. We had really good team chemistry.”

“Every member of our team is valuable, both through their hard work in practice and their support for each other,” head coach Max Rouse said. “Opposing coaches have commented how much the girls cheer on their teammates from the bench, which speaks to their character.”

Junior Ellie Szczerba echoed Coach Rouse’s sentiment. “The bench was really loud, and I love to feel that bond and experience together. Because that's Latin—it’s a family.”

Now in the second half of their season, the Romans will look to build on their progress thus far as they approach the state series.

“Since early January, the team has focused on a few core areas of improvement to prepare for the State tournament,” Coach Rouse said. “[The Latin vs. Parker] game was part of that process.”

Latin’s lopsided win was punctuated by a boisterous crowd of students, faculty, administrators, and alumni. The Big Games are always a highlight for both the players and fans.

Senior Michael Kotcher, a key player in hyping up the crowd, spoke to the lively atmosphere. “The energy was amazing,” he said.

The team equally appreciated the fans’ spirit.

“It was really good to see that many people in the crowd,” Roya said.