Springfield, OH – As the buzzer heralds the final season of her high school basketball journey, Mariana Tuscano stands poised and reflective. In her senior campaign for the Springfield Tigers, Tuscano has embraced the moment, soaking in every detail of her last year on the hardwood.

“I know once the tournament run starts, it’s definitely gonna hit me because any game could be the last. But right now, I’m just trying to enjoy it,” she shared in a recent interview with YSN’s Anthony Hartwig. Tuscano, a dedicated athlete who’s also excelled in volleyball, attributes her ability to manage senior-year pressures to her previous experiences. “It definitely helped me out because I already got one cry down… But I’m just gonna keep playing,” she remarked, shedding light on the emotional toll senior year can take on a student-athlete.

Having been a pivotal figure in Springfield’s rise, Tuscano cherishes the bond and history with her teammates. “I’ve been playing with these girls since I was young… We’re definitely going to try to go do what we did before with all the tournament runs,” she reflected warmly. The season has seen Tuscano continue her role as a leader. “I think I’ve had the role of a leader since last year… This year, we’re just gonna keep trying to help the younger girls out,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to mentoring the next generation.

Academically, Tuscano has set herself up for success, balancing her lighter senior-year workload with her basketball commitments. “I can just go to practice, come home and not really have to worry about staying up late doing homework,” she explained, highlighting her strategic planning. As Tuscano looks ahead, she remains undecided between pursuing nursing or business at Youngstown State University but is confident in her future path. “I’m definitely going to college… Probably YSU,” she confirmed.

Looking back, Tuscano expresses immense pride in her time at Springfield. “I’m definitely going to be proud of myself for graduating and just the way my high school career went,” she said confidently. In closing, Tuscano shared her gratitude for her coaches, teammates, and most importantly, her family. “My mom, she’s my biggest supporter… My brothers are also always there for me,” she said, acknowledging the unwavering support system that has been crucial to her success. With her senior season in full swing, Mariana Tuscano remains a beacon of leadership, dedication, and inspiration for the Springfield Tigers, destined to leave an indelible mark on the school’s storied basketball program.

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