photos by:  LKN IMAGES, KAMI BODINE PHOTOGRAPHY & MOORESVILLE SPORTS

While enormously proud of their 30-1 season and bringing home a 4A State Championship in buzzer-beater style, the Lake Norman High School varsity girls’ basketball team knew their winning season was about something much bigger than basketball.

“Finishing 30-1 and winning the state championship was so special on many different levels, but the record alone doesn’t even come close to telling the full story,” shares McKenzie Graham, head coach of the varsity girls’ basketball team. “What set this group apart was their unity and relentless work ethic. These girls weren’t just teammates – they became so much more than that. This team was committed to each other and the process every single day. That bond carried us through close games, tough practices and the pressure of the postseason.”

Head coach of the girl’s team for the past seven years, McKenzie also graduated from Lake Norman High School in 2007.

“Being able to coach at the school that gave me so much in high school has been a full circle experience,” she shares. 

Beyond basketball, McKenzie also helps run her family’s business – Mooresville Oil & Propane – which has been serving the community for more than 100 years. Growing up witnessing her family’s dedication and hard work has been a blessing as McKenzie worked to mold a superior work ethic within her team.

“That part of my journey is deeply connected to who I am and the values I try to instill in our program – hard work, legacy and community,” she says.

With much to be proud of, this was a group that didn’t expect to simply show up and win – they knew they had to put in the work. Those workdays included early mornings, late nights and plenty of extra shots after practice.

“More than that, they held each other accountable in a way that was ultimately rooted in respect,” McKenzie adds. “They weren’t afraid to have hard conversations or challenge each other when the standard slipped because they all wanted the same thing – and were willing to sacrifice for it. This team had been to a state championship before – and lost – so we knew this wasn’t going to be an easy road. The girls embraced the grind and never once flinched when they faced adversity.”

McKenzie says that a turning point came midseason when the team lost their only game. While humbled, they refocused and recommitted to their goals. 

“That response told me everything I needed to know! They got back in the gym and worked even harder than before. Ultimately, that was the reset we needed.”

What also stands out to family and friends about this memorable team? These girls wanted to leave a legacy – and create a culture that would last for years to come.

“We’ve set the bar for future generations and ultimately raised the standard for what it means to wear a Lake Norman jersey!” McKenzie says proudly.

These girls agree – they are more than teammates – they are family. Here’s what’s inspired them most!

“We wanted to prove we belonged! We knew we could make history by winning our school’s first women’s basketball state title, and we fought for each other on the court – which showed when it mattered most.” ~ Addison Sirianni

“Our team is made up of a group of girls who are very tight-knit and connected, and willing to work hard for each other. That translated to our good team chemistry and our trust in one another on the basketball court.” ~ Alexis Shehan

“I think losing in the state championship two years ago and being eliminated from playoffs on our home court last year was what pushed us this season. We felt the heartbreak but knew how much work was needed to get there.” ~ Adason Buoniconti

“I think what inspired our team most is having everyone doubt us. It was Lake Norman vs. Everyone. We used it as motivation, and at every game, told each other it was us against everyone!” ~ Kaylee Ellis

“What inspired us most this season was seeing how badly everyone wanted to win. We all had the same goal – and we never let up!” ~ Rayana Minard

“We truly have a family atmosphere. We’ve been together so long, these girls feel like my sisters.” ~ Kelsey Rhyne

“Our shortcomings from the past years motivated us all to work hard so we didn’t fall short. We pushed each other to become better so our whole team could succeed.” ~ Samantha Shehan  

Follow the Lake Norman High School Varsity Girls’ Basketball team on Instagram @Lnhswbb for more inspiration and on Twitter or X @LNHSGBB.