Typically known as the “leader of the offense,” playing point guard is one of the most demanding positions in basketball. But with her disciplined work ethic, high shooting accuracy and court vision, freshman Areni Ohanian has mastered the position.
On the girls varsity basketball team, which finished with an overall record of 11-16, Ohanian was often the team’s highest scorer. On Friday, Jan. 5, Ohanian poured in 15 points to help the Panthers clinch a 56-28 victory over Mayfield Senior. She also registered 17 points in a pivotal 56-26 victory over Chadwick on Friday, Jan. 19.
Junior Alex Lentz stated, “Areni is a freshman and also our point guard, which is an amazing achievement not many players are able to accomplish.”
Other freshmen on the team also recognized her leadership on the court. Isabella Heredia said, “She’s a good passer,” and Brynn Connolly added, “She contributes with her constant effort.”
With lots of pressure to handle the ball and make the correct passes, Ohanian still maintains a relaxed and calm approach when managing the game’s high intensity. Lentz said, “It is by no means easy for an athlete to have that much pressure, especially a freshman, but we all know she is more than capable based on this season’s performance. She plays with a maturity other players don’t always seem to have. She is an emotional rock who rarely gets flustered in games.”
Senior Kamryn Chan added, “Areni is a talented ball handler, reliable scorer and strong passer who knows how to actively involve her teammates. Beyond her skill, she is a composed player who constantly supports everyone around her, and I feel very lucky to be her teammate.”
Others on the team expressed similar appreciation for Ohanian’s influence as a teammate and athlete. Junior Akira Brown said, “Areni is very determined. She cares about basketball and always wants to win. This attitude rubs off on the rest of the team and helps everyone else work hard.”
Lentz added, “Areni is a great teammate who has helped me tremendously with my confidence throughout the season. She is also the first person I look for at practice. She is often laughing and a great friend to have but knows exactly when it is time to get serious.”
Freshman Brynn Connolly also commented on Ohanian’s impact: “Areni is an important part of our team because she helps motivate others and is a leader.” As the season comes to a close, Ohanian will focus on her club basketball team, LA Select, to further hone her skills.
Lentz said, “A freshman on varsity, in the starting five and point guard is not something you see or hear every day. Bright things lie ahead for Areni, and I can’t wait to watch her grow.”
Cool, calm and collected: Ohanian already demonstrates all the characteristics of an exceptional point guard and will continue to be a cornerstone of the girls basketball team for three more years.
