As Bellefonte High girls basketball approaches mid-season, sophomore Riley Santostefano is excelling all over the court. 

Riley has spent the last seven years perfecting her skill on the court and paving the way to success. Though she loves to wipe out a few teams, Riley looks forward to the more challenging games in hopes of improving herself, her team, and her record.

“Riley always gives it her all and goes hard, setting a good example,” Coach Marissa Ward said.

The 15 year-old has been starting varsity at point guard since her freshman year at Bellefonte High. She plans to keep playing basketball through her junior and senior year; however, in college she hopes to play softball.

“My biggest advice would be to stay positive and keep working hard,” Riley said.

Riley has been playing for a long time, and she finds it most enjoyable to be able to construct plays and carry them out with friends. Some of her biggest supporters on the team are sophomores Talia Cotter andHannah Sampsel, and senior Taylor Brown.

“I like that I have a team to help me along the way and I don’t have to do it on my own,” Riley said.

As a competitor, not only does Riley strive to put forth her best effort, but she aims to improve her team as a whole. Riley is a very selfless player; she’s willing to sacrifice a personal title for the benefit of the team.

“My biggest goal is to always look for ways to keep improving,” she said.

Though she plans on taking her softball career out of high school, Riley is an exceptional basketball player. Her “game IQ” is unmatched, and Bellefonte High looks forward to watching her grow as an athlete, whether that be in basketball or softball.