Damascus Girls Varsity Basketball 2025-26

Hornets Show Heart in Season Opener Against Churchill

The Damascus girls’ basketball team opened their season on Tuesday night, falling 63–20 to a strong Churchill squad in what was the first varsity experience for most of the young Hornets roster. Despite the final score, the game featured several promising moments and standout individual performances that point to a bright future for this developing team.

Damascus came out with energy in the first quarter, keeping the game tight and trailing by just five, 14–9, after the opening eight minutes. Churchill responded with a powerful second quarter, extending their lead to 38–10 by halftime.

Junior forward Maddie Frimpong paced the Hornets offensively, finishing with 11 points and providing steady play in the paint. Fellow forward Mariann Karfi anchored the interior defense and led the team with 6 rebounds, battling tough matchups on the boards. At the point, CC showed poise while facing constant defensive pressure, leading the Hornets with 2 assists and initiating the offense throughout the night.

Though the outcome wasn’t in Damascus’s favor, the game offered valuable varsity experience for the young squad, laying the foundation for growth as the season progresses. The Hornets will look to build on these early lessons when they return to action later this week.

Go Hornets!

The Damascus High School girls basketball team battled through a tough night on the road, showing resilience despite a slow start in a 38–27 loss to the Sherwood Warriors.

The Hornets struggled to find their rhythm early and fell behind 13–0 at the end of the first quarter. However, Damascus responded with increased defensive intensity and better ball movement, gradually chipping away at the deficit. By the end of the third quarter, the Hornets had closed the gap to 24–20, putting pressure on Sherwood and giving themselves a chance heading into the final period.

Freshman guard Olivia Keys led Damascus in scoring with 10 points, continuing to show confidence and poise beyond her years. Senior guard CC added 8 points, providing leadership and steady play in the backcourt. On the boards, senior forward Claire Griffin anchored the interior with 9 rebounds, while freshman center Delaney Ray contributed a strong effort inside with 7 rebounds.

Despite the late push, Damascus was unable to complete the comeback and fell 38–27 on the road against the Warriors. The Hornets’ determination after the early setback highlighted their growth and fight as they move forward in the season.

The Damascus varsity girls basketball team faced a tough test against the 2025 region champion Wootton Patriots, falling 56–21 in a matchup against one of the area’s top programs.

Wootton set the tone early, using a dominant full-court press to force turnovers and jump out to a 22–7 lead after the first quarter. The Patriots maintained that pressure throughout the game and never looked back, controlling the tempo on their way to the win.

Damascus, fielding a very young roster, continued to battle while learning on the fly under intense pressure. Turnovers proved to be a major factor, as the Hornets committed 26 turnovers compared to just 9 by Wootton.

Senior guard CC led Damascus with a strong all-around effort, finishing with 7 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 assists. Freshman guard Olivia Keys added 5 points and pulled down 6 rebounds, while freshman center Delaney Ray also contributed 6 rebounds in the paint. Lila Mack knocked down a three-pointer for her first points of the season and added a rebound.

Despite the lopsided final score, the game provided valuable experience for a young Damascus squad as it continues to grow and develop against elite competition.

Varsity Girls Basketball Recap: Damascus vs. Poolesville

The Damascus Hornets varsity girls basketball team showed heart and determination in a hard-fought — and at times sloppy — matchup against the Poolesville Falcons, falling 45–30 in a game where neither team consistently took care of the basketball.

Damascus came out with great energy and confidence, setting the tone early and taking a 10–9 lead after the first quarter. The Hornets played aggressive defense and moved the ball well, putting pressure on Poolesville from the opening tip. A challenging second quarter swung momentum, as the Falcons built a 24–13 lead going into halftime.

The Hornets continued to compete in the second half, battling on both ends of the floor and refusing to back down. Senior point guard Caryss Canada led Damascus with 15 points and 3 assists, providing steady leadership throughout the contest. Junior forward Maddison Frimpong made an impact defensively with 8 points and 5 steals. Freshman center Delaney Ray anchored the paint with a team-high 8 rebounds, while freshman guard Olivia Keys contributed hustle minutes and added 4 rebounds.

The game featured frequent turnovers on both sides, reflecting a physical and fast-paced style of play. While Damascus lost the rebounding battle 38–22, the Hornets finished with fewer turnovers than Poolesville, 20 to the Falcons’ 23. Despite the final score, Damascus’ strong start, defensive pressure, and continued growth from both veterans and young players highlighted positive momentum moving forward.

Girls Varsity Basketball Recap: Clarksburg 60, Damascus 36

The Damascus Varsity Girls Basketball team faced a difficult test against state powerhouse Clarksburg Coyotes, falling 60–36 in a physical matchup.

Clarksburg set the tone early, using relentless defensive pressure to jump out to a 23–3 first-quarter lead. Damascus struggled to find offensive rhythm against the Coyotes’ physicality, and Clarksburg carried a 38–12 advantage into halftime.

The Hornets responded with improved energy and execution in the second half, competing more evenly and showing resilience despite the early deficit. Damascus battled on both ends of the floor and found success through ball movement and defensive effort as the game progressed.

Freshman guard Olivia Keys was the star of the game for Damascus, leading the team with 11 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals. Freshman center Delaney Ray added 10 points while continuing to develop against strong interior competition. Senior guard CC Canda contributed 8 points, providing leadership and scoring, while senior forward Selena Murray recorded 5 rebounds and 5 steals. Junior forward Maddison Frimpong matched that defensive intensity with 5 rebounds and 5 steals, helping spark Damascus in the second half.

Despite the final score, the Hornets showed toughness and growth against one of the top programs in the state. Damascus will look to build on its second-half performance as the team continues to develop throughout the season.

Damascus Girls Varsity Grinds Out Gritty 49–42 Win Over Seneca Valley

The Damascus High School girls varsity basketball team earned its first win of the regular season—and its second straight victory overall—with a hard-fought 49–42 win over Seneca Valley on Tuesday night. The win continues positive momentum for the Hornets after going 1–1 in the holiday tournament, highlighted by a victory over Frederick Douglass High School, and improves their overall record to 2–6 on the season.

The game was tightly contested from the opening tip, with both teams deadlocked 12–12 at the end of the first quarter. Seneca Valley gained momentum in the second, taking a 24–18 lead into halftime as Damascus struggled to find an offensive rhythm.

Coming out of the break, Damascus flipped the script. Strong defensive intensity and improved ball movement helped the Hornets claw back into the game, taking a narrow 30–28 lead after three quarters. From there, Damascus stayed composed down the stretch, making key plays on both ends of the floor to seal the seven-point victory.

Junior forward Maddie Frimpong led the way with a team-high 15 points, adding 2 assists and 2 blocks while setting the tone with her physical play. Senior captain and point guard CC Canda controlled the tempo, finishing with 13 points, 2 rebounds, and 4 assists. Freshman center Delaney Ray delivered a dominant all-around performance with 9 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 blocks—including a massive rejection on Seneca Valley’s final shot attempt to punctuate the win.

Damascus also received important contributions from across the roster. Freshman guard Olivia Keys chipped in 7 points, 4 rebounds, 3 steals, and 3 assists, while sophomore Kaitlyn Doyle battled inside for 2 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals in what was a tough, gritty contest.

With the 49–42 victory, Damascus continues to build confidence early in the season, carrying momentum from its holiday tournament win over Frederick Douglass into regular season play as the Hornets look to climb back toward .500.

Damascus Girls Basketball Dominates Watkins Mill, 55–18

The Damascus High School girls basketball team put together a complete performance on both ends of the floor, rolling past Watkins Mill High School 55–18 in dominant fashion. The win marked the Hornets’ third straight victory, improving their record to 3–6 overall.

Damascus set the tone early, jumping out to a commanding 22–5 lead at the end of the first quarter behind relentless defensive pressure and efficient scoring. The Hornets continued to build on that momentum in the second quarter, heading into halftime with a 38–7 advantage.

The defense remained locked in after the break, as Damascus extended the lead to 47–11 by the end of the third quarter, effectively putting the game out of reach. The Hornets maintained control in the final period to secure the 55–18 win.

Senior point guard and team captain Caryss Canda led all scorers with an outstanding all-around performance, finishing with 19 points, 4 rebounds, 5 steals, and 3 assists. Junior forward Maddie Frimpong was nearly unstoppable inside, recording 13 points, 9 rebounds, 5 steals, and 2 assists, narrowly missing a double-double.

Freshman center Delaney Ray was a force in the paint, contributing 8 points, 9 rebounds, 3 steals, and an assist, while freshman guard Olivia Keys filled the stat sheet with 5 points, 7 rebounds, 3 steals, and a team-leading 6 assists. Sophomore guard Lila Mack added 5 points, 1 rebound, and a steal to round out the balanced scoring effort.

With strong team defense, unselfish offense, and contributions up and down the roster, the Hornets continue to build momentum as they move forward in the season.

Damascus Girls Varsity Basketball Extends Win Streak with Dominant Victory Over Northwest

The Damascus High School girls varsity basketball team continued its impressive run, cruising past the Northwest High School Jaguars with a commanding 51–18 victory to secure their fourth consecutive win.

The Hornets came out strong from the opening tip, jumping out to a 14–4 lead at the end of the first quarter. Damascus maintained its defensive intensity and offensive efficiency in the second quarter, taking a 31–9 advantage into halftime. The momentum carried into the third quarter, as the Hornets extended the lead to 42–15, putting the game firmly in their control before closing out the win.

Junior forward Maddie Frimpong delivered a standout performance, pouring in 27 points to go along with 7 rebounds and 4 steals, leading all scorers and setting the tone offensively. Freshman guard Olivia Keys continued her strong play with a well-rounded effort, finishing with 9 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and a block.

Freshman center Delaney Ray anchored the paint, contributing 6 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals, a block, and an assist. Senior captain Caryss Canada filled the stat sheet with 4 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals.

Additional contributions came from sophomore forward Katelynn Doyle, who chipped in 3 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists, and senior center Amaya Hammond, who added 2 points and 3 rebounds.

With balanced scoring, stifling defense, and strong energy throughout the lineup, the Hornets continue to build momentum as they push deeper into the season on a four-game winning streak.

🔥 HEART. HUSTLE. FIVE STRAIGHT. 🔥
Damascus Varsity Girls Storm Back to Beat Magruder 40–37

The Damascus girls varsity basketball team continues its climb, battling back for a 40–37 come-from-behind win over Magruder to secure their fifth consecutive victory and move to 5–6 on the season. This was a complete team win, powered by relentless hustle, high-intensity defense, and impact contributions from every player who stepped on the floor.

The Hornets and Colonels traded punches early in a defensive showdown, tied 9–9 after the first quarter. Magruder carried a slim edge into halftime, with Damascus trailing 19–15. In the locker room, Coach Keys delivered a confident, focused message — Damascus was the better team. With a few defensive adjustments and a demand for increased intensity, he challenged the Hornets to trust their work and take control.

They answered.

Damascus exploded out of halftime with relentless pressure, swarming defense, and nonstop effort. The Hornets erased the deficit and tied the game at 30–30 by the end of the third quarter, setting up a gritty final frame. When the final buzzer sounded, it was Damascus on top, 40–37.

🌟 Junior superstar forward Maddie Frimpong once again led the way with a dominant double-double: 21 points and 10 rebounds, while adding 1 assist and 3 steals. She set the tone with her physicality and scoring touch in the biggest moments.

⚡ Freshman guard Olivia Keys delivered another fearless performance, pouring in 13 points while adding 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and a team-high 4 steals, igniting the Hornets on both ends of the floor.

🧠 Senior captain CC, battling foul trouble throughout the night, made every minute count with 4 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 steals, providing poise, toughness, and leadership.

💪 Junior forward Katelynn Doyle impacted the game in multiple ways with 2 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists, embracing the physical work that fuels winning basketball.

🛡️ In the paint, freshman center Delaney Ray competed through foul trouble to pull down 4 rebounds, while senior captain and center Amaya Hammond anchored the defense with 7 rebounds and 1 steal, playing outstanding positional defense and protecting the rim all night.

🔥 Off the bench, sophomore guards Naina Singh and Lila Mack delivered key minutes. Singh chipped in 2 rebounds and 1 assist, Mack added 1 rebound, and both brought lockdown defense and steady ball movement to keep the offense flowing.

💥 Miriann Karfi added a burst of aggressive play, grabbing 3 rebounds and making multiple hustle plays that shifted momentum.

📈 Down at halftime. Unshaken. Five straight wins. This Hornets team is building something special, fueled by defense, depth, and belief — and they’re not done yet. 🐝🔥

Damascus Girls Fall to Walter Johnson, Snap Five-Game Win Streak

The Damascus High School varsity girls basketball team saw its five-game winning streak come to an end with a 57–23 loss to county powerhouse Walter Johnson on Friday night.

Walter Johnson set the tone early, jumping out to a 21–7 lead after the first quarter and extending the advantage to 38–13 by halftime. The Wildcats continued to control the tempo in the second half, leading 46–15 after three quarters on their way to the final score.

Despite the loss, Damascus junior Maddie Frimpong delivered a strong all-around performance, leading the Hornets with 7 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals, and 3 blocks. Delaney Ray added 5 points, along with 2 steals and 2 blocks, providing energy on both ends of the floor.

Additional scoring came from Miriann Karfi (3 points), Naina Singh (3 points), CC (2 points), Katelynn Doyle (2 points), and Olivia Keys (2 points).

With the loss, Damascus moves to 5–7 on the season. The Hornets will look to regroup and get back in the win column when they face Northwood in their next game.

The Damascus Hornets girls varsity basketball team delivered a thrilling comeback victory Tuesday night, outlasting the Northwood Gladiators 62–51 in a game that turned into an unexpected, high-octane shootout.

Coming in, 1–9 Northwood looked to control the tempo against 5–7 Damascus, and early on, it worked. The Gladiators jumped out fast behind the sensational play of Queenie Plater, taking a 22–15 lead after the first quarter and a 26–20 advantage at halftime. Plater was everywhere, pouring in points and wreaking havoc on both ends of the floor.

Northwood continued to press the issue in the third quarter, stretching the lead to 39–36, but that’s when Damascus flipped the script.

Faced with slowing down an unstoppable Plater—who finished with an eye-popping 37 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals—the Hornets responded with relentless energy, ball movement, and timely shot-making. What followed was a blistering fourth quarter that showcased the Hornets’ depth, toughness, and poise.

Freshman guard Olivia Keys ignited the comeback with a season-high 24 points, attacking the basket and knocking down big shots while adding 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 steals, and a block. Her confidence and fearlessness set the tone.

Dominating the paint all night was junior superstar Maddie Frimpong, who recorded a monstrous double-double with 16 points and an incredible 20 rebounds, along with 2 blocks, anchoring the Hornets on both ends.

Steady leadership came from senior captain and point guard Caryss Canda, who orchestrated the offense with 6 assists, chipped in 8 points, and played lockdown defense with 2 steals.
Freshman center Delaney Ray was a force inside as well, posting 7 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and a block, while senior forward Amaya Hammond added 6 points, 3 rebounds, and a block to round out the balanced attack.

Damascus outscored Northwood decisively down the stretch, turning a three-point deficit into an 11-point victory and showcasing their resilience and chemistry.

With the win, the Hornets improve to 6–7 on the season and will look to keep the momentum rolling with a Friday night showdown at Rockville. If this performance is any indication, Damascus is heating up at just the right time. 🐝🏀

The Damascus Hornets Varsity Girls Basketball team showed pure grit and heart, battling all night and surging late to earn a huge 51–47 win over the Rockville Rams in front of a fired-up crowd 🐝🏀

The Hornets set the tone early, edging out to a 7–5 lead after the first quarter, but Rockville answered back, and Damascus found itself trailing 14–11 at halftime. Neither team gave an inch coming out of the break, and after three hard-fought quarters, the scoreboard read 31–31, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

When it mattered most, superstar forward Maddie Frimpong completely took over. Frimpong delivered a jaw-dropping performance, leading Damascus in every category with 31 points, 18 rebounds, 4 steals, and 3 blocks, powering the Hornets on both ends and refusing to let them lose.

Senior captain and point guard Caryss “CC” Canda was steady and fearless, knocking down big shots and controlling the tempo with 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals. Freshman center Delaney Ray provided key minutes in the paint, finishing with 4 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists, while freshman guard Olivia Keys added 3 points and 3 rebounds. Senior forward Amaya Hammond battled inside all game, pulling down 6 rebounds to go with 2 points, helping seal the win.

Damascus closed the fourth quarter with poise, toughness, and clutch defense to hold off the Rams and lock in the 51–47 victory.

The win pushes the Hornets to 7–7 on the season after an 0–6 start, another powerful chapter in a remarkable turnaround. This team just keeps fighting—and the buzz around Damascus is getting louder every night 🔥🐝

Hornets Sting Falcons in OT Thriller, Take Over Second Place in MCPS North

In one of the biggest rivalry showdowns of the season, the Damascus High School Hornets Girls Varsity Basketball team went on the road and pulled off a massive 42–39 overtime victory over the Poolesville Falcons on Thursday night. The matchup featured two evenly matched squads — 11–6 Poolesville vs. 11–8 Damascus — with second place in the MCPS North Division on the line and plenty of revenge motivation after Damascus suffered a 15-point loss to the Falcons earlier this season.

Playing without senior point guard CC, the Hornets had to grind from the opening tip. Damascus trailed 11–8 after the first quarter and went into halftime down 20–16. The Hornets turned up the defensive pressure in the second half, clawing their way back into the game before taking a narrow 25–24 lead heading into the fourth quarter.

Regulation ended in dramatic fashion, tied 34–34, after junior guard Maddie Frimpong’s buzzer-beating jumper rolled just off the rim. But the Hornets refused to let the moment slip away. In overtime, Damascus locked in defensively and made the big plays when it mattered most, outscoring Poolesville 8–5 to seal the statement 42–39 win.

Three underclassmen led the charge in an all-around team effort.
Junior guard Maddie Frimpong stuffed the stat sheet with 12 points, 15 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block. Freshman center Delaney Ray dominated the paint with 12 points, 8 rebounds, 4 steals, and 2 blocks, while freshman point guard Olivia Keys matched the scoring punch with 12 points to go along with 6 rebounds, 4 steals, and 1 block.

Freshman guard Caitlyn Dunkelberger made the most of her first career start, chipping in 6 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block. Senior forward Amaya Hammond provided steady leadership and toughness inside with 8 rebounds and 2 assists. Huge hustle and defensive energy also came from Katelyn Doyle, Lila Mack, Naina Singh, and Lena Murray, who helped swing momentum with their effort plays.

With the win, the Hornets improve to 12–8 overall and 7–2 in division play, taking sole possession of second place in the MCPS North Division. There’s no time to celebrate for long, though — Damascus now turns its attention to a massive test against the undefeated 18–0 Walt Whitman Vikings tonight, where they’ll see how they stack up against one of the best teams in the state. 🐝🔥

The Damascus Hornets girls varsity team delivered a heart-pounding, never-quit performance, rallying late to stun the Seneca Valley Screaming Eagles 37–33 in a thriller that had the gym buzzing to the final horn 🐝🏀

With just three minutes left and Damascus trailing by three, senior guard Caryss Canda — better known as “CC” — stepped into a moment built for legends. CC calmly rose up and drilled a clutch three-pointer to tie the game, completely flipping the momentum and igniting the Hornets’ comeback. She finished with 6 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals, delivering when it mattered most.

From start to finish, the Hornets were powered by a dominant night from junior Maddie Frimpong, who controlled the game on both ends. Frimpong led all scorers with an incredible 19 points and 14 rebounds, while also stuffing the stat sheet with 3 assists and 5 blocks, anchoring the defense and setting the tone in the paint.

Freshman center Delaney Ray continued to make her presence felt inside, adding 7 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals with strong finishes and tough defense. Senior forward Lena Murray battled on the boards all night, pulling down 6 rebounds to go along with 2 points, while freshman guard Olivia Keys chipped in 3 points and 3 rebounds, providing key minutes and energy.

After CC’s clutch triple, Damascus locked in defensively, forced tough possessions, and closed the door at the free-throw line to secure the 37–33 victory.

The win pushes the Hornets’ record to 8–7 after starting the season 0–6, a powerful statement of resilience, belief, and growth. This group has learned how to win close games—and when the pressure is highest, the Hornets are answering the call 🔥🐝

Damascus Hornets Roll Past Watkins Mill on Senior Night, 55–15

The Damascus High School varsity girls basketball team continued its dominant stretch with a 55–15 victory over the Watkins Mill Wolverines on Senior Night, marking the Hornets’ third straight win and their ninth victory in the last ten games.

Before tipoff, Damascus honored its seniors, and they made sure the night was memorable. Seniors Amaya Hammond, Caryss Canda, and Selena Murray all earned starts, setting the tone early with energy, leadership, and intensity on both ends of the floor. In true team fashion, every Hornet on the bench saw playing time as Damascus showcased its depth.

Senior point guard Caryss Canda led the offense with a poised all-around performance, finishing with 12 points, 4 assists, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals. Senior center Amaya Hammond was a force in the paint, posting 10 points, 9 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals, anchoring a defense that held Watkins Mill to just 15 points.

Junior forward Maddie Frimpong delivered a standout performance, recording a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds while adding 5 steals and 2 assists. Freshman guard Olivia Keys contributed across the board with 6 points, 4 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 assists, while sophomore forward Katelyn Doyle added 4 points, 3 rebounds, and a steal.

Inside, freshman center Delaney Ray controlled the glass with 8 rebounds to go along with 3 points, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Freshman guard Caitlyn Dunkelberger chipped in 5 points, 2 rebounds, and a steal, rounding out a balanced scoring effort.

With suffocating defense, unselfish ball movement, and contributions from every player, the Hornets put together a complete performance on a special night. Damascus will look to keep its momentum rolling as the postseason approaches. 🐝🏀

Hornets Pull Away From Northwest, Win Fourth Straight 52–31

The Damascus Hornets varsity girls basketball team stayed red-hot with a 52–31 victory over the Northwest Jaguars, earning their fourth consecutive win and improving to 10 wins in their last 11 games.

The game opened as a tight defensive battle, with Damascus holding a slim 11–10 lead after the first quarter. The Hornets quickly found their rhythm in the second quarter, turning up the defensive pressure and pushing the pace to take a commanding 32–17 lead at halftime.

Junior forward Maddie Frimpong delivered a superstar performance, dominating on both ends of the floor with 29 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal. Frimpong’s scoring and presence inside fueled the Hornets’ run and kept Northwest on its heels all night.

Freshman guard Olivia Keys continued her strong play, contributing 9 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals, while senior guard Caryss Canda controlled the tempo with 7 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, and a steal. Senior forward Selena Murray made her impact felt defensively, recording 4 steals to go along with 3 points, 4 rebounds, and an assist.

Freshman center Delaney Ray added toughness in the paint with 3 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals, as the Hornets’ defense limited the Jaguars to just 31 points.

With balanced contributions, relentless defense, and another standout performance from Frimpong, Damascus continued to show why they are one of the hottest teams around as they build momentum heading deeper into the season. 🐝🏀

The Damascus High School Hornets girls varsity basketball team powered past the Paint Branch High School Panthers, 50–33, on Friday night — spoiling the Panthers’ Senior Night celebration while earning their 11th win of the season.

Damascus had to dig deep early. The Hornets, playing without two starters, found themselves trailing 4–3 at the end of the first quarter as both teams battled through a defensive opening stretch.

The Hornets settled in during the second quarter, finding rhythm offensively and tightening up on defense. Behind balanced scoring and strong rebounding, Damascus went into halftime with an 18–12 advantage.

The momentum continued after the break. The Hornets pushed the pace in the third quarter, forcing turnovers and converting in transition to extend their lead to 33–22 heading into the final frame. Damascus closed the game with poise, outscoring the Panthers down the stretch to secure the 50–33 victory.

With two starters sidelined, the Hornets received major contributions from their bench in a complete team effort.

Junior guard Maddie Frimpong delivered a dominant all-around performance, finishing with 25 points, 10 rebounds, four steals, one assist, and one block. She set the tone on both ends of the floor and controlled the game when it mattered most.

Freshman point guard Olivia Keys continued her standout season, adding 14 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Her composure and ability to attack the basket helped Damascus maintain control throughout the second half.

Freshman center Delaney Ray contributed three points, five rebounds, one assist, and two steals, while sophomore guard Naina Singh added a point, six rebounds, and an assist, providing key minutes and defensive energy.

The senior leadership was also instrumental in the win. Amaya Hammond recorded five points, three rebounds, one assist, and two blocks, protecting the rim and anchoring the defense. Fellow senior Lena Murray added two points, three rebounds, four assists, and two steals, facilitating the offense and making timely defensive plays.

Despite the emotional atmosphere on the road, Damascus stayed focused and executed on both ends of the floor. With resilience, depth, and strong performances from veterans and underclassmen alike, the Hornets left no doubt — securing a 50–33 road victory and building momentum as the season continues.

The Damascus High School Hornets girls varsity basketball team saw its six-game winning streak come to an end Tuesday night, falling 59–30 at home to the Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School Barons.

Damascus entered the matchup having won 11 of its last 12 games, but faced immediate challenges. The Hornets were without senior guard CC, and star junior Maddie Frimpong was limited by early foul trouble that significantly reduced her minutes and the offensive spark she typically provides.

Bethesda-Chevy Chase set the tone from the opening tip, jumping out to a 13–7 lead after the first quarter. The Barons continued to apply pressure in the second quarter, capitalizing on turnovers and second-chance opportunities to extend their advantage to 29–14 at halftime.

Despite battling throughout the second half, the Hornets were unable to close the gap as the Barons pulled away for the 59–30 final.

Freshman guard Olivia Keys led Damascus with 10 points, eight rebounds, one assist, and two steals, continuing to show poise and toughness against a strong opponent. Frimpong, despite limited action, finished with nine points and added a rebound and an assist.

Freshman center Delaney Ray provided a strong presence inside with six points, four rebounds, one assist, and four blocks, protecting the rim and competing on the glass. Senior forward Amaya Hammond contributed two points, six rebounds, and two blocks, while freshman JV call-up guard Caitlyn Dunkelberger chipped in two points, two rebounds, and two steals, bringing energy off the bench.

While the result wasn’t what the Hornets hoped for, the team looks to regroup quickly and return to form Thursday night on the road against Poolesville, with tipoff set for 6 p.m.

The stakes were sky-high Tuesday night in Damascus as the No. 2-seed Damascus Hornets hosted the No. 3-seed Magruder Colonels in a win-or-go-home showdown. With a trip to the regional finals on the line — and possibly the final home game for senior leaders Caryss Canda and Amaya Hammond — the energy inside the gym was electric.

On paper, it was a heavyweight matchup. Earlier this season, Damascus edged Magruder by three points on the road. This time? The Hornets left no doubt.

From the opening tip, Damascus came out swarming. The Hornets’ defense set the tone immediately, forcing turnovers, controlling the glass, and turning stops into fast-break opportunities. By the end of the first quarter, Damascus had roared out to a commanding 15–5 lead, igniting the home crowd.

Magruder battled back in the second quarter, tightening the game and cutting into the deficit, but Damascus stayed poised. Senior captain Caryss Canda controlled the tempo like a true floor general, making smart reads and delivering in big moments. At halftime, the Hornets held a 19–15 edge — close enough to keep tensions high, but with Damascus firmly in control.

Then came the knockout punch.

The third quarter belonged entirely to the Hornets. Junior guard Maddie Frimpong was relentless, attacking the rim and cleaning up everything on the glass. Frimpong finished with a monster double-double: 12 points, 10 rebounds, plus 2 assists, a steal, and a block. Freshman center Delaney Ray dominated the paint on both ends, pouring in 9 points while grabbing 10 rebounds, swiping 2 steals, and swatting 3 shots. By the end of the third quarter, Damascus had exploded to a 34–18 lead.

Freshman guard Olivia Keys showcased poise beyond her years, stuffing the stat sheet with 8 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, while freshman Caitlyn Dunkelberger drilled two massive first-half three-pointers that kept momentum firmly in Damascus’ favor. She finished with 6 points, 6 rebounds, and a steal — but her shots felt even bigger than the numbers show.

And when the Hornets needed steady leadership, Caryss Canda delivered. The senior captain poured in 10 points while adding 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals — controlling the game and savoring every moment on her home floor.

When the final buzzer sounded, Damascus stood tall with a commanding 47–29 victory.

A statement win. A complete team performance. And one more memory made on their home court.

With the victory, the Hornets advance to the regional final at Wootton High School on Thursday, where they’ll look to cut down the nets and continue this thrilling postseason run. The road to a championship rolls on — and this Hornets squad is buzzing louder than ever.

The season came to a close for the Damascus Hornets Girls Varsity Basketball team in the regional final against the top-seeded Wootton Patriots. While the outcome wasn’t what the Hornets hoped for, the night marked the end of a memorable season defined by growth, resilience, and the beginning of a new era for the program.

The game began with a spark. Freshman guard Olivia Keys opened the night by knocking down a three-pointer, giving Damascus the early lead and setting an energetic tone for the Hornets. Wootton quickly found its rhythm, however, and took control of the game, building a 35–7 lead after the first quarter. The Patriots carried that momentum into halftime with a 51–17 advantage before finishing with a 69–33 victory.

Despite the tough scoreline, Damascus continued to compete and battle until the final buzzer, showing the determination that defined their season.

Junior forward Maddie Frimpong, a First Team All-Division selection, led the Hornets with 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 block, continuing her strong play on both ends of the floor. Senior captain Caryss “CC” Canda, a Second Team All-Division honoree, finished her final game with 7 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal. Freshman guard Caitlyn Dunkelberger added 6 points along with 1 rebound, 1 assist, and 1 steal.

Senior captain Amaya Hammond anchored the frontcourt with 3 points and 5 rebounds in the final game of her high school career, continuing to bring toughness and leadership inside. Freshman guard Olivia Keys finished with 3 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal after her early three-pointer. Sophomore guard Lila Mack contributed 2 points, 1 rebound, and 1 steal. Freshman center Delaney Ray added 1 point, 1 assist, and 1 steal, while sophomore guard Naina Singh chipped in 1 point, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 1 block.

While the regional final marked the end of the season, it was also the final game in a Hornets uniform for senior captains Caryss “CC” Canda and Amaya Hammond. Throughout the year, the two seniors were the emotional and vocal leaders of the team. Their work ethic, commitment, and leadership helped guide an extremely young roster that featured three freshman starters. They set the tone for the program and helped keep the team focused and confident throughout the season.

This season also marked the beginning of a new era under first-year head coach Daryl Keys. Taking over the program with a young roster, Coach Keys emphasized growth, belief, and toughness from day one. The Hornets faced early adversity, starting the season 0–6, but rather than letting that define them, the team responded with determination and resilience. Under Coach Keys’ leadership, Damascus steadily improved throughout the season, building confidence and finding its identity as the year progressed.

A major part of that success came from the dedication of assistant coaches Andre Hammond and Jenna Sevilla, who played vital roles in the development of the players throughout the year. Their commitment to teaching, supporting, and motivating the team helped create the culture that allowed the Hornets to grow and compete at a high level.

By the end of the season, that growth was clear. Damascus finished with a strong 13–11 record and achieved several impressive milestones along the way. The Hornets earned the No. 2 seed in the region, secured a playoff victory over Magruder to advance to the regional final, and celebrated memorable wins throughout the year—including a rivalry victory over Poolesville and two wins against Magruder.

The success of the program extended beyond the varsity level as well. The JV team, led by head coach Jason Sprankle and assistant coach Chad Mack, put together an excellent season of their own, finishing with a 9–6 record. Their work in developing younger players and building the future of the program will be crucial as Damascus continues to grow in the years ahead.

For a varsity team that started three freshmen and leaned heavily on underclassmen for major minutes, the growth throughout the season was remarkable. The young core gained invaluable experience, especially during the postseason run.

Though the final scoreboard didn’t fall their way, the 2025–26 season will be remembered as an exciting and important step forward for Damascus girls basketball. In the first season under Coach Keys and his staff, the Hornets overcame a difficult start, built momentum, and proved they could compete with the best teams in the region.

With a strong young core returning, a successful JV pipeline, and a dedicated coaching staff leading the way, the future of Damascus girls basketball is incredibly bright. And thanks to the leadership and legacy of seniors CC and Amaya, the foundation for that future has been firmly set.