Omar Iakub is a student at ASU's Cronkite School of Journalism assigned to cover Notre Dame Prep by AZPreps365.com

They are not only sisters but teammates. Alivia, the senior power forward, is leaving her lasting marks on the court before transitioning to the college level at Black Hills State, while freshman Ava is quickly making a name for herself on the wing for Notre Dame Prep.

The two are no strangers to the game. Alivia began to play basketball right before middle school and Ava has been playing since the second grade. “Our family is a huge basketball family and our grandpa used to be a basketball coach so that really helped shape our love for the game,” said Ava.

When asked if they previously have played together on a team before this year, Ava said, “We have never played together on a team besides some training but playing together now knowing each other’s tendencies and mindset has been an advantage.”

Ava was nervous in the beginning. “But I’ve always been playing against tougher competition and practicing with my sister have all absolutely been beneficial in my play.”

The growth of the team this year cannot be understated. Fresh off a hard fought victory against Desert Edge, Notre Dame Prep improved to an impressive 7-1. The Saints sit in the No. 2 position in the 4A West Valley standings behind the Deer Valley Skyhawks, who they meet in their regular season finale.

Having been on the team for four years now, Alivia has witnessed all the ups and downs in the program and can’t help but take of notice the difference from previous years. “[The] positivity and the drive to be here and to get better every day throughout our whole team has improved.” she said, “The passion to want to be out there and enjoy the game has absolutely grown, even for myself.”

The main difference: how closely bonded this team is.

Alivia has been averaging a double-double this season but still looks to improve other skills. An intangible part of the game, leadership is important to Alivia during her journey to become a superior player. “Leadership is a big thing for me, keeping that energy and focus up in order to achieve what we seek.”

Ava views her defense and court vision as her best traits but looks to work on her shot and offensive execution.

When speaking about this seasons goal, both sisters echoed similar sentiments: Region champs with a banner hanging in the rafters.

Both sisters had glowing remarks for first year coach Dell Mims. Ava: “He pushes us, keeps us together and accountable.” Alivia: “He was on the forefront of pushing positivity in the team, every day after practice he makes it clear how much he believes in us and how much he cares about us and that gives a lot of girls hope.”

The Saints play Saguaro Sabercats Thursday. Alivia is currently sitting at 999 career points and looks to reach 1000.