Basketball teams across the Seacoast region engaged in a series of competitive matchups, highlighted by a dominant performance from the Portsmouth High School girls' team. Key players delivered impressive scores, securing victories and demonstrating strong teamwork. The evening also featured notable achievements from several other local teams in both boys' and girls' divisions, setting an exciting tone for the ongoing season.
Seacoast Basketball Roundup: A Night of Stellar Performances
On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the vibrant atmosphere of Stone Gymnasium in Portsmouth witnessed an outstanding display of athleticism as the Portsmouth High School girls' basketball team triumphed over their Seacoast rivals, Dover, with a commanding score of 51-29 in a Division I showdown. The dynamic duo of Lana Vidacic and Jenna Lucy spearheaded Portsmouth's offensive charge, each sinking 13 points and leading their team to an impressive 4-1 season record. Dover, despite the efforts of Ali Jabre, who scored 12 points, and Avery Littlefield, who contributed seven, currently stands at 0-5. Addie Lane added nine points for Portsmouth, while Leiana Cory and Reese McCauley chipped in seven and six points, respectively. Cory and Jolie Robichaud were particularly instrumental on defense, disrupting Dover's plays and securing valuable possessions. Portsmouth established an early lead, concluding the first half 25-13 and extending their advantage to 38-21 by the end of the third quarter.
Elsewhere in girls' basketball, Winnacunnet High School orchestrated a remarkable comeback against Manchester Central/West, securing a 48-44 Division I victory in Hampton. Kaila Roy led Winnacunnet with 14 points, supported by Julie Allan and Izabel Turcotte, each scoring eight points. Both teams now hold a 1-4 record. St. Thomas Aquinas maintained their undefeated streak (5-0) with a hard-fought 39-36 Division III win over Campbell in Litchfield, powered by freshman Mollie Gaynor's nine points and Emma Toriello's eight. Prospect Mountain delivered a decisive 70-10 victory over Somersworth, where Katelyn Lensky scored six points for Somersworth. Marshwood, a Class B team, overcame Class A Portland 44-34 in Portland, Maine, thanks to Isabelle Tice's game-high 21 points and Natalie Lathrop's 13, alongside Renee St. Pierre's 10 rebounds.
In boys' basketball action, Exeter improved to 4-1 with a 69-42 Division I win against Windham, with Nate Tomasi scoring 12 points and Agee Griffith adding 10. Tyler Ream contributed nine points for the Blue Hawks. St. Thomas Aquinas also advanced to 5-0, defeating Campbell 52-32 in Dover, led by sophomore Grant Baker's 13 points and senior Brady Livas's 10. Coach Dave Morissette praised his team's performance, noting their moments of excellent play. York, Maine, saw its team secure a 72-42 Class B South win over Cape Elizabeth, with Robbie Hanscom's 19 points leading the charge. Sophomore Henry Mirick and Reece MacDonald also reached double figures for York (9-0). In other games, Class B Marshwood (1-6) fell to Class A Portland 76-26, and Traip Academy (3-5) triumphed over Wells 47-40 in Kittery, Maine, with Matt Long scoring 18 points.
The middle school girls' basketball scene also saw Cooperative Middle School improve its record to 5-0 with a 27-16 win over Hampton Academy, where Lilah Riley and Rowan Condon performed commendably for Hampton (3-2).
The recent series of high school basketball games across the Seacoast region truly encapsulates the spirit of local sports. It highlights not just the individual talents of young athletes but also the collective dedication and teamwork that go into each game. These competitions serve as vital platforms for students to develop their skills, learn resilience, and represent their communities with pride. Beyond the scores, the passion and commitment shown on the court are what truly inspire, fostering a healthy competitive environment and laying the groundwork for future athletic achievements within these vibrant school communities.