Marist survives late surge from Fremd to secure big win

Marist was salivating at the chance to play against Fremd.

The RedHawks play in the East Suburban Catholic Conference, one of the toughest in the state. They picked up a big win over the Christmas season against Lyons, but also lost to Nazareth, Carmel and Benet.

Monday’s game against Fremd provided Marist an opportunity to prove itself against one of the better teams in the state. The RedHawks met the challenge after the 59-47 win in the Coach Kipps Hoopsfest over Fremd at Benet.

“We beat them in the summer, but one of our goals for the season was to beat them,” said senior guard Olivia Cosme, who scored eight points.

Marist’s spread offense is very difficult to guard. Because they usually have five players that can score from the perimeter, it opens up driving lanes as the defense is preoccupied with defending the three-point line.

The RedHawks faced challenges after junior forward Lily Porter went down with an ankle injury in the second quarter, forcing everyone to take on additional responsibility. Porter didn’t return in the second half but was very much present in the game. She was shouting from the sidelines, defensive instructions and positive encouragement to her teammates.

Junior guard Caroline Flynn led the way with 15 points, and junior guard Olivia Barsch and senior guard Lucy Cosme each scored 12.

“I was very upset about [Porter getting injured],” Cosme said. “And then we were like, ‘No, we have to win.’”

Flynn is known for her pesky defense and knockdown three-point shooting. She’s a three-year varsity player whose effort always shows up in games. Even without Porter, Marist’s strength in numbers ethos was evident in multiple players scoring in double figures.

“We all knew we needed to step up because she was out,” Flynn said. “We all just put in a little extra effort to make sure we could still pull out the win without Porter."

Playing a competitive schedule helps Marist prepare for top-tier opponents. Last season, the RedHawks’ season ended after an IHSA Class 4A section loss to Kenwood. Against Fremd, Marist led by 14 points in the fourth quarter. The RedHawks were in control because of their constant motion and cutting that put the Vikings in a bind.

But Fremd responded with an 8-2 lead in the fourth to cut Marist’s lead to eight points. The RedHawks regrouped and closed the game out at the free throw line.

“Mentally, you have to prepare yourself for all of the hardships that's going to happen during the game,” Cosme said. “And that does happen a lot when we play all of those good teams, but it also prepares us for teams like [Fremd].”

The team’s selflessness offensively allowed it to survive Fremd’s late rally and Porter’s injury.

“We depend on each other,” coach Renee Chimino said. “They wanted this game. They were excited to play this game against one of the top teams in the state. They wanted to prove that they could compete with the best in the state."