After the back-and-forth victories last year between the CESJDS and Melvin J. Berman Hebrew Academy girls varsity basketball teams, the Lions were looking to get a big win in their game against the Berman Cougars on  Dec. 18. Despite this, the JDS girl’s varsity basketball team lost the game 49-51. 

The rivalry between Jewish schools in Maryland has been going on for years, but following last year’s season, the game between JDS and Berman garnered extra attention. Last year, the rivalry was accelerated, with the Cougars beating the Lions in the first two games they played against each other. But, at the end of the season, the Lions won the PVAC championships against the Cougars and ultimately took home the banner. 

“Coming into this game, our rivalry was even more intense after them beating us last season twice and then us beating them in the championship,” Director of Athletics and girls varsity basketball coach Becky Silberman said. 

The game started in the Lion’s favor, with them ahead of the Cougars at the end of the first quarter with a six point lead. The Lions kept a lead going for the majority of the game until the fourth quarter when the Cougars stepped up their game and claimed the victory. 

JDS players were making constant baskets throughout the game. The top scorer was senior and co-captain Shani Schwartz, scoring 22 points. But, Schwartz wasn’t the only one making baskets; many underclassmen made numerous shots this game, including freshman Yarden Wilkenfeld, with 6 points, and sophomore Tali Loeffler, with 8 points. 

Although the Lions had strong shooting and offensive skills, the Cougars played strong and effective defense, blocking shots and making it difficult for the Lions to drive to the basket. 

In the fourth quarter, it all came down to free throws. During the end of the game, multiple fouls were made on Berman players during this quarter while they were attempting to shoot, leading them to make six free throws and claim the victory. 

The Lions played strong offense and defense but were outplayed by the Cougars, especially in their rebounding skills. The JDS players often missed opportunities to claim the ball after a missed shot, and Berman players were able to use that to their advantage.

“The Cougars outworked us and gave their all on every play, which led to their win,” Silberman said. 

Because of the strong Jewish community around both of these schools, the games are even more intense for players and fans alike. This was shown in the games’ turnout; all of the bleachers were packed with parents, students, classmates and friends coming to cheer on both teams. 

“The fact that we both want to win so badly, but at the same time, everyone knows each other makes things so much more fun and competitive,” junior team member Dalia Epstein said. 

Although the outcome may not have met the expectations of JDS fans, there will still be a rematch. Berman and JDS face off again this January, and that game will come with its own outcome. 

“We worked really hard but unfortunately didn’t win this time,” sophomore team member Amalia Netter said. “I’m excited for the rematch because we know their team better now so we will be more prepared. We’re going to work on our communication a lot and our defense.”