Now a Leader, Marin Lenz Poised to Help Her Team on Long Provincial Run
It’s not often in life you get to experience some things twice, and certainly not in the way Abbotsford Senior’s Marin Lenz is in her senior season.
Two years ago, as a grade ten playing varsity basketball, she played with her older sister Sienna Lenz as the Panthers finished fourth in the province. Now, in her senior season, she’s playing with her younger sister Malia Lenz, who’s in grade nine.
“It’s been cool to be able to play with both of them and see the difference between being the older one and then the younger one” she explained talking to BC Sports Hub. “Now as the older one, I’m more of a leader.”
Known primarily for her shooting and scoring ability, Marin’s game has become extremely well-rounded in her senior season. Her willingness and eagerness to set up her teammates have catapulted the Panthers to the top.
“Marin’s growth as a player over the past year has only been surpassed by her growth as a leader and teammate,” said Anthony Beyrouti, her head coach at VK Basketball. “She used to be very quiet and now is a vocal leader and steady presence for her team. Her future is bright and her ability to score in every way possible makes her the best scorer in the province hands down.”
Her most recent game saw her Abby Senior Panthers defeat the Okanagan Mission Huskies 82-69 in the prestigious Robert Bateman Timberwolves Invitational. For her efforts, she was awarded the tournament MVP after leading her team to victory.
“I love to play basketball with Marin because she’s a great leader on and off the court,” said Malia. “She sets an example by being in the gym every day and working hard for what she loves to do. Marin always pushes you harder even when you feel like you can’t do anything and motivates you do work towards your goals.
“Another thing that I love about playing with Marin is how she plays the game. She can see the court very well and her passes are always right where they should be. And you can always count on an assist when you pass her the ball at the three-point line. The way that she can do everything so well amazes me every game and each game, she shows you that she can do something different.”
Marin is confident that this tournament win can be a springboard for her team in the new 3A division. They’re currently third in our Senior Girls Power Rankings, listing the top twenty teams in the province regardless of what tier they compete in.
“I think if we keep competing and playing hard, we should have a good shot at provincials,” said Lenz on her team’s chances.
If everything keeps rolling, you’ll be sure to see them at the Langley Events Centre from February 25th to 29th at the Langley Events Centre.
Written by: Nick Bondi