The Nansemond River High School girls’ basketball team gave gifts to a family in need for the fifth consecutive year.

Coach R. Calvin Mason Sr. and his team continued the holiday tradition this year. They bought and put together gifts and adopted a family in need over the holidays. They went to the family of five’s house on Christmas Day to deliver gifts. It was an act of goodwill that goes beyond basketball.

“This has been a mission of ours for the last five years,” Mason said. “The family was so appreciative of the things we were able to do for them. It really touches my heart every year that we do. These girls really do their best to give, and I really appreciate the things that they do.”

Mason knows that with sports, most will look at achievements by wins and losses. However, the things that are taught through sports and the ability to help is more valuable.

“I tell my team you can’t always score a point, you can’t always grab a rebound, but you can always get an assist by helping someone,” Mason said. “Helping people especially around this time of year is great. Maybe us reaching out and helping someone can encourage someone else to do so as well.”

On the court, the Lady Warriors are coming along. They are currently 1-6 on the season, and they feature a young team. They have a total of eight freshmen and sophomores and return two starters from the team last season to go along with one senior and two juniors.

It is a different feel than in recent years for Nansemond River, when they were senior-heavy and among the best teams in the area. However, Mason is excited about the young talent and the growth they continue to show throughout the season.

“As long as we are taking steps forward, I am happy,” Mason said. “Sometimes they may not see it because their steps may be small, but we are always trying to get better. We have some talent on this team.”

Taylor Paquette returns as the lone senior leader on the team. Last season, she was the second-leading scorer and has done well leading a young team up to this point in the season. Ashlee Robertson has returned with some experience. Cyncere Fountain and Tseday Brown are two freshman players Mason believes have the potential to be good for years to come.

Nansemond River is playing in a holiday tournament at Thomas Dale High School to build some momentum before district play starts back next week.