Star Watch: Jackie Russell

Jackie Russell scored a game-high 24 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter, as East Hampton girls’ basketball rallied for a 44-38 win over rival Cromwell on Dec. 28.

“I feel like the team is blending really well right now and I feel like we do have that chemistry,” Russell said of the Bellringers, who improved to 4-1 with the win. “It’s easier to get through these games when we have each other’s backs and everyone’s support.”

The sharp-shooting sophomore was magnificent from the field, canning seven three-pointer. Four of her long range shots happened during two-minute stretch early in the fourth quarter when Russell went on a personal 12-0 scoring run to regain the lead for the home team, a lead they would not relinquish.

Energized by the home crowd, Russell was in the “zone”. She said moments like that are the reward for all the long hours in the gym practicing.

“It’s the best feeling in the world, you feel like you’re on top of the world,” she added.

​For a more detailed look at the girl’s basketball team at East Hampton, check out next week’s edition of the Rivereast.