SUPER SOPH: The Shipley girls’ basketball team is poised to make a run at its first-ever Friends School League title, due in large part to sophomore Alex Lennon.

Lennon is averaging 11.2 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game, and has posted eight double-doubles this season. She tallied 20 points and 11 rebounds against Baldwin prior to posting 11 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 blocks against Abington Friends. She came close to registering a triple-double against Agnes Irwin as she finished with 8 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 blocks.

“At the beginning of the season we were aware she would be a force defensively,” said second-year coach Zach Kancher. “We did not think her offensive capability would be as well-defined and that has been a terrific surprise.”

SMOOTH TRANSITION: Lennon played basketball her freshman year at Archbishop Carroll High School, then transferred to Shipley.
“It feels good to transfer to a new school and be able to contribute,” said Lennon. “My teammates and coaching staff have been great. They have been a big part in making the transition go smoothly.

“I had a great time at Carroll — it was a good Catholic school, but I wanted to attend a preparatory school that would help me get adjusted to college life.”

After looking at a few different schools, Lennon decided Shipley was the perfect fit, both academically and athletically. “I had heard Shipley had a great reputation,” said Lennon. “So far, I can’t even describe in words how great it has been at Shipley.”

TRIED SOMETHING NEW: While growing up, Lennon played basketball in the back yard with her father and cousins, but was not exposed to organized basketball until she was in seventh grade at The Christian Academy.

“My family has always been athletic,” said Lennon. “I wanted to try something new. I have been having fun ever since.”

Lennon played two seasons at The Christian Academy before transferring to Carroll in ninth grade. At age 13, Lennon played AAU for the 14-and-under Philadelphia Belles B team. After taking a year off, she is giving some thought to playing AAU once again.

The Shipley sophomore has hinted she would like to continue playing basketball in college if the right opportunity presents itself. Currently, she is leaning toward majoring in sports management with a minor in athletic training.