The Manhasset girls Varsity Basketball Team defended their title last weekend as winners of the twentieth annual Barbara Hoffman Girls Invitation Basketball Tournament. The tournament honors Barbara Hoffman, a former physical education teacher and coach at Manhasset High School. Barbara was recognized for her commitment to the students at Manhasset as well as her leadership in developing a girl's athletic program at Manhasset.

The tournament began on Friday, Dec. 12, when Manhasset defeated St. Mary's 57 to 38. Dani Iervolino, an eighth grader, led Manhasset in scoring with 13 points. Meghan Clarke had 10 points and 10 assists. Juliet White had 8 points and 12 rebounds. Also scoring against St. Mary's were Liz Byrns with 6, Kathleen Kelly with 5, Meghan Gaffney with 4, Mary Cuddihy, Jessica Nevitt, and Laura Molins with 3, and Alison Herdemian with 2.

The tournament ended on Saturday, after Manhasset defeated Port Washington 64 to 57. Meghan Clarke, a junior, scored a career-high of 27, 17 of which were in the first half. Senior Juliet White followed with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Also scoring for Manhasset were Dani Iervolino (7), Laura Molins (7), Meghan Gaffney (4), Caillin Connolly (3), and Kathleen Kelly (2).

Juliet White was named a member of the All-Tournament Team, while Meghan Clarke was named the tournament's most valuable player. The Manhasset Girl's Varsity Basketball Team is coached by Suzanne Collins, assisted by John Kiggins.