The HHS girls basketball team is kicking off the season on Friday, Nov. 28 against Osseo as part of the Hopkins Early Bird Tournament. According to maxpreps.com, the Royals enter the season ranked as the 20th best girls basketball team in the United States.

Last year, the Royals had a regular season record of 23-3 and tied for first place in the Lake Conference with only one conference loss.

The Royals entered section play as the one seed and many people around the state expected the Royals to complete the four-peat and win yet another state championship. Despite having an impressive win against St. Louis Park in their first game, the Royals were ousted in the section semifinals by Eden Prairie by a score of 51-46.

During the offseason, T’Aire Starks, senior captain, committed to play Division One basketball at Iowa State University next year. Starks has high expectations for her performance this year.

“I want to be that leader that anybody can come to for anything. My goal is to be positive and approachable for all my teammates all the time,” said Starks.

The Royals’ roster consists of seven seniors, 10 juniors, two sophomores, and one freshman. With many non-seniors, the Royals are looking forward to showcasing the team’s young talent.

The Royals lost only one starter off of last years team. Molly O’Toole, captain, did a good job controlling the paint last year.

“Molly was one of those players that contributed in a bunch of different ways. She really helped our team in all aspects of the game,” Starks said.

Looking into the future, the Royals hope to avenge last year’s section loss and win the state tournament for the fourth time in five years.