Jenkins and Restiano lead Pats to victory in DeCristoforo’s first game

Junior forward Morgan Jenkins and freshman guard Gena Restiano combined for 41 points as the Revere High girls basketball team opened its season with an impressive 64-41 victory over Medford Friday night.

The game marked the head coaching debut at Revere High for Diana DeCristoforo.

Jenkins, a two-time league All-Star, scored 20 of her game-high 27 points in the second half, a sterling performance that included 12 rebounds, two three-pointers, and 5-of-7 from the line.

Restiano made her much anticipated debut for the varsity a memorable one, netting 14 points, including a pair of three-pointers. Restiano scored 12 points in the first half and used her excellent dribbling skills to help Revere beat the Mustangs’ zone press.

“Gena was really aggressive and making things happen,” said DeCristoforo “I told Gena before the game that I only scored three points in my first game [for Revere High] and I fouled out. Gena played like she had been here before.

Junior guard Marisa Parent also made a solid contribution with 10 points. Junior Melissa Adreani had five points wile junior Ashley DiFraia and freshman Caitlyn Caramello each scored three points.

The Lady Patriots, paced by Restiano, opened up a 20-9 lead after one period and held a 26-14 advantage at the half. Whenever Medford threatened to close the gap in the second half, Jenkins seemed to have the response either with a basket or an offensive rebound.

Jenkins was pleased with her opening night effort, saying she worked hard on improving her outside shooting in the off-season.

“I’ve been working on my free throws and getting my shot out because those two things will help my game in the future,” said Jenkins. “I played a lot of basketball in the summer and shot the ball around at the [Revere] Police court. I’m happy to get a victory for the coach [DeCristoforo] in her first game.”

DeCristoforo, who received a bouquet of flowers from her father moments after the game to celebrate her first victory, had her team ready against a Medford team that should win its share of games under coach Leo Burke.

“We passed the ball well as a team and I can commend them as a team,” said DeCristoforo. “Everyone stepped up big defensively. I’m very encouraged but we’ll continue to work on our defense, our rebounding, and our offense. Morgan had a huge night offensively. She’s always ready to play.”

LADY PATRIOTS NOTEBOOK

Senior captain Julie Lu had an efficient night in the backcourt, making good decisions with the basketball.

Six-foot-junior Ashley DiFraia showed her athleticism with a tremendous block of a Medford shot close to the basket.

It’s clear that freshman Caitlyn Caramello knows the game of basketball. She boxed out well underneath the defensive boards and played tough defense in her varsity game. “Caitlyn looked very comfortable out there in her first game,” said DeCristoforo.

Senior captain Nicole Kjersgard did not suit up the game. Kjersgard is doing physical therapy for her knee and is hoping to return to the court. Senior captain Paige Licata, who is out for the season as she recovers from knee surgery, sat on the bench and provided encouragement to her teammates.

The Lady Patriots played Salem in Northeastern Conference opener Tuesday night.