Under the bright lights of the Scott Gym, with the crowd roaring and the game on the line, senior Alex Lentz isn’t just another player—she’s the heart and soul of the Poly varsity girls basketball team. A guard with unstoppable determination, lightning-fast handles and a relentless mentality, Lentz has spent the last four years turning the court into her stage. Her skill is undeniable, but it’s her leadership and the way she elevates those around her that truly sets her apart.
Though the Panthers’ CIF run was cut short, Lentz’s legacy is far bigger than a single season. She’s been the team’s anchor, the voice of encouragement in the huddle and the player who leaves everything on the court, game after game.
For sophomore Areni Ohanian, a younger player, Lentz’s presence has been invaluable. “She was our team captain, a leader on the court, and she made sure everyone had a positive attitude, including while at practice,” Ohanian said.
Senior and teammate Luciana Piro echoed that sentiment, emphasizing Lentz’s relentless drive: “Alex always puts in one hundred percent and always hustles. She brings a sense of humor to the team and has a strong work ethic.”
Throughout the season, Lentz’s leadership shined in both triumph and adversity. One of the defining moments came on Tuesday, Jan. 28, when the Panthers dominated Mayfield in a commanding 58-27 victory. While the scoreboard reflected a one-sided game, it wasn’t just about the win—it was about the team’s energy and resilience, fueled by Lentz. When Mayfield made a strong push in the second quarter, threatening to shift momentum, Lentz took control. She steadied her teammates in huddles, pushed the tempo on the floor and delivered key plays that ignited a second-half surge. Her ability to rally the team in crucial moments made all the difference.
But, to Lentz, basketball isn’t just about the wins—it’s about the battles fought together, the bonds formed and the lessons learned. On Thursday, Feb. 13, in the first round of CIF, the Panthers faced Twentynine Palms in a game that marked the end of their playoff journey. Despite their effort, Poly fell 50-40, closing the chapter on Lentz’s high school career. Yet, even in defeat, her leadership never wavered. She held her head high, reminding her teammates how far they had come and how much they had accomplished together.
As Lentz prepares to move on to new challenges, her impact on the Poly girls basketball program will endure. Championships are remembered, but legacies are built on something greater—passion, resilience and the ability to inspire others. And, in that sense, Alex Lentz will always be a Panther.