NHS girls basketball dribbles into new season

The Niwot girls basketball team is gearing up for the 2024-25 season with renewed determination and a commitment to growth.

Under the guidance of Head Coach Todd Trobaugh, who is entering his second season, the Cougars aim to improve on last season's 5-18 record. This season also marks a new chapter for the program, as the Cougars step into the newly formed Granite Peaks League and compete at the 5A level for the first time.

Trobaugh sees a mix of veteran leadership and new talent as the foundation for this year's team. Seniors Thalia Almaraz, Hadie Adams, and Jiselle Sales are set to play critical roles. Almaraz led the team in assists last season, adding 93 points and 28 rebounds. Adams brought toughness to the paint, leading the team in rebounds with 80 and chipping in 68 points. Sales contributed 39 points and 52 rebounds, rounding out a core group of experienced players. Their leadership and competitive edge will be key as Niwot takes on a more competitive league.

The Cougars will also rely on leaders at every grade level. Senior Peyton Rhodes returns after scoring 51 points and pulling down 51 rebounds last year. Junior Payton Johnson, who added 19 points and 44 rebounds, will look to step up, while freshman Alaina Loomis is already standing out as a player to watch. The blend of veteran presence and young talent gives the Cougars plenty to build on.

This season will not come without its challenges, especially given the strength of their new competition. The Granite Peaks League is stacked with talented programs. Last season, Mead High School finished 22-5, Frederick High School went 19-7, Broomfield High School ended 19-5, and Horizon High School posted a 23-3 record. Holy Family High School, a powerhouse program, went 25-3 and reached the 4A State Championship game before falling to Riverdale Ridge High School.

The Cougars have spent the preseason focusing on three themes: tenacity, intensity, and aggressiveness. "We have to play hard all the time," Trobaugh said. "Get better every day. It's a process and we have to be the more aggressive team to be successful."

That mindset will be especially important as Niwot faces teams with more experience and depth. Many of their league rivals boast rosters full of club players who compete year-round, a luxury the Cougars are still working toward. But Trobaugh is optimistic about the future, particularly given the program's increased numbers. For the first time in years, participation is thriving, with 25 freshmen joining the roster. "It will be a year of growth," Trobaugh said. "We're still a very young program."

The Cougars are particularly looking forward to matchups against local rivals Silver Creek High School, Longmont High School, and Skyline High School. These games will not only be a chance to compete but also an opportunity to measure their progress in a season that is as much about development as results.

Niwot tips off the season on the road against the Northglenn High School Norsemen on Tuesday, Dec. 3, at 7:00 p.m. On Friday, Dec. 6, the Cougars will compete in their home opener against the Mountain Range High School Mustangs at 7:00 p.m. With a strong focus on growth and a tough schedule ahead, the Cougars are ready to hit the court and take on the challenges of the Granite Peaks League.