Basketball (Girls)
Overview
The Minnehaha Academy Girls' Basketball Program strives to develop young women who succeed both on and off the court. Our program has a defined "way" that is both a system of playing basketball and a means of teaching valuable life lessons. We teach student-athletes to be good stewards of the game of basketball, and more importantly of their lives and communities.
Our program has trademarks that are linked to our way of playing basketball and to the characteristics that our student athletes display while representing our community. Not only is this indicative of our programs success (12 section championships in 17 years, two state championships '10,'19) but also in our student athletes endeavors beyond the court (multiple scholarship athletes, Athena award winners, and 3.59 team GPA.)
We are called to be the light in the world (Matthew 5:14-16) and we strive to instill these standards, expectations, and values in our student athletes.
Minnehaha Girls' Basketball Team Culture
Faith and the strong training ethic of our team has been intentionally developed over the years. Our coaches and athletes take pride in honoring, upholding, and perpetuating this culture both on and off of the court. Our student-athletes don't just play for themselves, they play for each other. They encourage one another to rise to a high-level of basketball.
Growing as a Basketball Player
At Minnehaha Academy, player development is intentional and accelerated. Our coaching staff includes experienced trainers who focus on skill development, game strategy, and building confidence at every stage of a player’s journey.
One of the unique ways we support growth is by providing opportunities for Middle School athletes to compete at the high school level. This early exposure allows players to experience a faster pace of play and higher competition—helping them develop basketball skills and composure earlier than many of their peers.
Through consistent training, competitive opportunities, and a supportive team culture, players are challenged to grow—both in their skills and in their love for the game.
Coaching Emphasis
Our program is designed with a clear developmental progression at each level, ensuring players grow with purpose and confidence.
At the C-team level, the focus is on building a strong foundation in basketball IQ—helping players understand spacing, decision-making, and the flow of the game.
At the JV level, athletes continue to develop their basketball knowledge while also increasing physicality—learning how to compete with strength, speed, and intensity.
At the varsity level, the emphasis is on putting it all together. Players are challenged to execute at a high level, compete consistently, and play their best basketball as an athlete and teammate.
This intentional progression allows each player to develop step-by-step, preparing them for success at the next level.
Competition Level
We compete at the highest level, but coaches always make sure it is done in a way that is healthy and encouraging.
If you were to stop by our practices, you'd see that they are loud and joyful. Sometimes there's work to be done, but its always done in good company.
Basketball & Faith Integration
We intentionally integrate faith in the daily life of the team. We host a team Bible study and build practices of prayer. We invite our Athletic Chaplain to lead us in study and also build in opportunities for our teams' aspiring faith leaders to create devotionals and Bible studies.
Basketball Team Traditions
Our team grows deep connections through team dinners and Bible studies.
More Details
- Season: Winter (mid-November and runs through mid-March)
- Grade Levels: 6-12 (grades 6-7 participate on the Middle School teams; grades 8-12 participate on C-Squad, Junior Varsity, and Varsity teams)
- Practice Location: Middle School team practices at the Middle School, High School team practices at Bergstrom Court at Minnehaha Academy Upper School.
- Team Communication: Once you register for this sport, the coach will communicate with student-athletes and parents via email.
- Equipment Requirements & Transportation: Detailed information can be found in the Athletic Team Info document.
How to Join
Coach
- Kendall Givens, Head Coach
- Began Coaching Basketball: 2016
Game day photos courtesy of: Cana, Upper School Journalism Student