Aliso Niguel High School’s girls basketball team is entering the season with new momentum, expanded depth and growing recognition across Orange County. Led by varsity head coach Majors and joined this year by new assistant coach and AP European History teacher Ms. Terhardt, the Wolverines are focused on building a strong program that emphasizes teamwork, skill development and long-term growth.
The Wolverines’ progress is already being noticed. Aliso Niguel recently climbed five spots in the Orange County Top 20 rankings, a jump that highlights the team’s rising competitiveness in a region full of elite programs. Coaches and players say the ranking reflects more than just individual talent; it shows the importance of cohesion and communication on the court.
In her first season with the Wolverines, Terhardt has placed an emphasis on building team chemistry. She believes that strong communication and trust are crucial to turning a group of talented players into a successful team.
“I think one of the biggest goals is always building team chemistry and team communication, and trying to make sure that they really learn how to work together as a team,” Terhardt said. “Basketball is not an individual sport, so being able to play together and build chemistry is one of the biggest roles usually.”
Daily practices now focus on movement, reading defenses, passing under pressure and making quick decisions as a team. Players are encouraged to use their individual skills to lift the team, rather than only to stand out. Leadership on and off the court has become a priority, with upperclassmen mentoring younger players and setting an example during drills and games.
Sophomore varsity player Aya Montijo has embraced that approach. After a strong freshman season, Montijo worked over the offseason to improve her shooting, dribbling and court awareness. Her goal is to become a more reliable contributor to the varsity team.
“I’ve been working on my individual skills such as shooting and dribbling to be useful to my team,” Montijo said.
One of the biggest changes for the program this season is the creation of a frosh-soph team. For the first time, Aliso Niguel has three competitive levels, giving younger athletes a chance to gain experience against players at their own level. In previous seasons, freshmen were often moved directly onto JV or varsity, limiting development and sometimes placing them in high-pressure situations too soon.
The frosh-soph team allows younger players to adjust to high school competition, build confidence and develop leadership skills, while giving varsity and JV rosters the advantage of more seasoned rotations. Coaches say this structure ensures a sustainable pipeline of talent for future seasons.
Majors said the expanded program strengthens Aliso Niguel’s identity as a disciplined, connected basketball team that emphasizes depth, defensive intensity and team-first play.
As the season progresses, the Wolverines aim to build on their rising county ranking, improve offensive consistency and maintain a culture of collaboration and dedication. With strong coaching guidance, a committed roster and a focus on chemistry, Aliso Niguel girls basketball is not only chasing wins this season — it’s building a lasting legacy.
At Aliso Niguel this year, the message is clear: the Wolverines are strongest when they play together.
