Scorpions Girls’ Varsity Basketball Team Sets Sights on Playoff Glory

Becca Serenity, head coach of the Sedona Red Rock High School (SRRHS) girls basketball varsity team, has expressed enthusiasm about her current squad. “I’m feeling grateful and excited because I have a group of girls that have already bought in, and they’re working hard,” Serenity stated. Her optimism stems from the team’s commitment to core values, which include transparency, discipline, and positive mindset.

Having made Sedona her home since late 2020, Serenity emphasized her dedication to both basketball and the personal development of her players. “Basketball is just a part of their journey,” she remarked, underscoring her aim to guide these young women into strong individuals on and off the court.

With over a decade of coaching experience including stints at Yavapai Community College and various club teams, Serenity is well-equipped to lead her players. The team retains four of its five varsity players from last season: Karina Diaz Rodriguez, Maya Esquer-Morales, Maria Saldana, and Dalila Pedroza. While Serenity works to build the remaining roster, she has not yet named team captains.

Among the newcomers is Ukrainian exchange student Milana “Mila” Ovcharenko, who Serenity describes as a remarkable addition. “We are so lucky to have her,” Serenity noted, highlighting the significance of Mila’s presence given her tumultuous background. Having grown up near the Russian border, the current events in Ukraine have added depth to her story.

Serenity expressed excitement about the blend of experience and fresh talent on the team. Guard Dalila Pedroza, despite her height disadvantage, brings agility and decades of experience to the court. She aspires to create a supportive environment while also improving her own game. “Being able to connect with my teammates is key,” Pedroza said.

Maria Saldana, another junior guard, seeks to lead the Scorpions to a successful season capable of clinching a championship. “I feel like if we work hard, we can definitely make it,” she asserted, drawing on her own experience of overcoming last year’s struggles, including a sprained ankle.

Mila has faced the challenge of adapting to basketball’s intensive physical demands after prior experience in volleyball. Nevertheless, she remains motivated. “When I became a part of the varsity team, I was really shocked,” she recalled, emphasizing how the opportunity inspires her to excel.

Sophomore Karina Diaz Rodriguez aims to contribute to improved team dynamics. After starting on varsity last year, she is focused on enhancing her shooting and defensive skills while pursuing team cohesion. Meanwhile, classmate Maya Esquer-Morales, focused on academics, champions strong team chemistry as a priority.

Serenity has established a motto for the team: “together,” represented in multiple languages including Spanish and Ukrainian. “Our mission is to develop champions on and off the court,” she said, aiming to prepare every senior for college and beyond. She invites local businesses and nonprofits to engage with the team as they strive to strengthen community ties.

The Scorpions are set to kick off their season with a home game against the Mayer Wildcats on November 26 at 5:30 p.m. As they embark on this journey, the synergy of experienced players and new additions promises an exciting season ahead.