RESERVE — With success on the court and strength in sportsmanship, the Riverside Academy girls basketball team is ready to tackle District play, though the team may need to switch strategies in upcoming games.

Standout senior DanNecia “Dannie” Nora recently suffered a torn ACL, an injury that will sideline her from the rest of the season, according to head coach Kevin Dizer.

“She was having a monster year,” Dizer said. “Everything we did offensively was centered around Dannie.”

Dizer said he’s looking forward to watching the team adjust, adding he’d like to see more girls come to the forefront and establish themselves as leaders.

Senior Briley Becker has stepped up, scoring 33 points recently against Lutcher to secure a 63-55 win.

Junior Bria Neal, averaging 15 points, 10 rebounds and five assists per game, has also contributed to the team’s success.

Coming into the week with a 10-3 record, Riverside Academy remains in good standing and boasts wins against West St. John, East St. John and Lutcher.

This year’s team is special, according to Dizer, and the girls share an understanding of what it means to be a good player and a good person.

“The girls are buying into what we’re preaching and buying into the culture of Riverside girls basketball,” Dizer said.

“They’re coming into practice focused and not worried too much about what we can’t control. We’re not focused so much on wins and losses.”

Dizer said the team spends a lot of time talking about body language and attitude.

The Lady Rebels take on Ursuline Academy at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday.