Senior Kendall Berger steps into starring role for Norwin girls

By: Bill Beckner Jr.
Wednesday, December 18, 2024 | 11:01 AM

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At times, Kendall Berger had the look of a go-to scorer last season when Norwin became a WPIAL champion for a third time.

She looked polished in critical possessions, unafraid of big moments.

When the Knights needed a basket, they knew they could trust in Berger, who often drove the lane and scored through traffic or showed touch with her step-back jumper.

With standout 6-foot-1 forward Lauren Palangio now playing at Division II Holy Family and additional graduation losses of Ava Kobus (Allegheny) and Bailey Snowberger (Maine, softball), Berger has become the go-to scorer — all due respect to a talented supporting cast that includes seniors Averi Brozeski and Bella Furno, junior Ava Christopher and others.

Norwin has to play differently without Palangio, working more for offense on the perimeter through screening and movement — exactly how Berger likes it.

“Past experiences have helped tremendously,” said Berger, a 5-10 combo guard. “I was blessed enough to play with some of the best players at Norwin. Learning from them has been insightful and helpful. You only grow throughout high school as a person, leader and player. I feel like this year I truly know how to lead this team in a good direction.”

Berger had 19 points in a 56-46 win over District 9 power Kennedy Catholic and scored 17 when the Knights dumped State College, 48-42.

She was averaging 16 points for the Knights (3-2), who opened the season ranked No. 2 in WPIAL Class 6A. Norwin opens Section 2-6A play Thursday night at Connellsville.

There is NCAA Division II talent all over the court for the Knights. Berger and Brozeski are Clarion commits, whereas Furno is headed to West Virginia Wesleyan and Christopher is drawing college attention.

Berger was ready to become the lead singer of another band of talented ring chasers. She said her mentality has changed, an infusion of confidence giving her a jolt.

“Stepping on the court, I need to be confident in my abilities in my teammates’ abilities and confident overall in the team’s potential to be great,” Berger said. “My role in prior years was to go out on the floor and do whatever it takes to win the game, as well as learn from my more experienced teammates. Now my role has shifted to still doing what needs to be done in order to win but also being helpful for the freshmen and underclassmen so they can have successful seasons too.”

Her vocal contributions can be just as vital as her points and defensive stops, her coach said.

“Kendall’s role has been elevated to being a leader and mentor,” Norwin coach Brian Brozeski said. “What Kendall does well is her game-day leadership. She is a fierce competitor who uses her actions as well as her words to encourage and motivate teammates.”

Coach Brozeski said Berger has extended her shooting range and release timing while also “working on becoming an elite defender.”

Berger said the Norwin program never has been about one player, and she doesn’t see that changing.

“No doubt about it, Norwin is a team to watch, but it’s not just because of the senior class, or junior class, or sophomore class or freshman class,” she said. “Everyone contributes, and that’s what makes Norwin lethal time and time again.”

Bill Beckner Jr. is a TribLive reporter covering local sports in Westmoreland County. He can be reached at bbeckner@triblive.com.

Tags: Norwin