Consistency, confidence and chemistry: these are the three words most commonly used to describe Guilford College’s women’s basketball team this season.

Currently, with the team sitting at a 16–2 overall record and a first place 10–1 Old Dominion Athletic Conference record, they could not be more optimistic or motivated. Throughout the season they have seen some variation in game ferocity and many close games, yet they have pulled through intense games with wins and been all the better for it.

With no seniors on this year’s current roster, they were underestimated from the beginning, which has paved the way for the success they have reaped, thus far.

“Right now we have surprised a lot of people, being ranked sixth in the preseason polls,” said junior guard Heaven Walters in an email interview. “I think we have proved we belong at the top of the pack.”

The team has validated their abilities and, with this confidence, are working towards a top regular season finish in the conference.

“Attitude. Everybody wants to win and work hard,” said head coach Stephanie Fliamini when asked what has led to this year’s success. “They want to play up to their potential.”

This response closely mirrored that of her players.

“What has led to our team’s success is our chemistry on the court and our motivation to work hard,” said first-year forward Ymani Breedlove. “I am enjoying this season very much because it seems like, with every game, our team becomes closer and closer.”

This motivation to win and work hard is deeply ingrained in the team’s mindset as they hit get closer to the conference tournament and work hard every day in practice. Throughout the season, this hard work has held true and was shown in every game. The women have continued to achieve, consistently playing to win and strengthening their skills as an entire team.

“The team has shown a widespread balance on the court,” said Assistant Athletic Director and Sports Information Director Dave Walters.

As a team, the girls have been able to work well on the court but also mesh well off. This chemistry, as the team said, has helped them in many games.

“We all know each other’s strengths and weaknesses,” said Breedlove.

Looking forward, the girls are preparing for their next few conference games by continuing to work hard in practice.

“We are focusing on taking things one day at a time, one week at a time,” said Flamini.

The women are constantly reminded that winning is not easy, but they are as ready as ever to work harder. Knowing that upcoming games could prove to be intense, the team is not focusing on their record and conference standing but continuing to stay humble and work one game at a time to maintain their consistency and quality playing.

“It is always great to have fun doing the thing you love,” said Breedlove.

As the team moves on and works hard towards their next conference game, they continue to have fun with the sport and one another.

“We always knew from the beginning that we could win,” said Flamini.

With the team’s great attitude and admirable drive continuing to spark pride amongst the Guilford community, there is a lot of hope the Quakers could make a move towards a conference championship.