Eliana Black (‘25) snatches the basketball out of the air, intercepting a pass from the opposing team and strategically dribbles down the court, skillfully maneuvering her way around any opposing defenders. Black quickly pivots, releases the basketball, and watches her flawless three-point shot sink into the basket.
Black is a shooting guard and co-captain for South’s girls basketball team. This winter will be her third season on the varsity team and her fourth season playing high school ball. Black was the highest scorer for South’s girls team last season, with a total of 151 points and averaging six points per game.
Black’s love for basketball began at the age of four when she was inspired by watching her older sisters Shira Black (‘21) and Talia Black (‘23). Shira played shooting guard during her time on the South girls basketball team, while Talia played center.
“I was following in their footsteps,” said Black. Both sisters now work with the basketball teams at the University of Michigan, where they both are currently students.
Thirteen years later, Black is now a senior, excelling on both the South girls basketball team and a competitive Amature Athletic Union (AAU) roster. Black has incredible drive, sets high standards for herself and her teammates, and gives her all to the team.
“She wants to win above all else, and will do whatever the team needs to make sure that happens,” said Coach Zachary Kumor, head coach of the girls basketball team.
Black was an ironman athlete for the past two years, meaning she attended every practice and played in every single game. This dedication to basketball has paid off, making her an outstanding teammate and player.
“I feel like I’ve really grown,” said Black. “And I know we can have a successful season as long as we work together and learn from each other”.
Black’s attitude affects all her teammates. “Ellie brings a really positive, excited energy that is really hard to find during tough moments, always putting you and the team first”, said co-captain Shaili Holden (‘25).
As the team aims to improve on their record from last season, the team will look to Black’s leadership. “The confidence that she brings on the court helps serve our team to win,” said Sophia Latif Estafan (‘26).
Black’s command on the court is fueled by her love for the sport. She doesn’t let anything change that, focusing solely on the game and a good mindset. “She is leading by example in that regard while also working towards bringing the team closer together,” said Coach Kumor.
When asked about Black’s trajectory this season, Holden said, “She is very consistent and dependable, I’m really excited to be able to set her up for opportunities on the court and watch as she diversifies how she hits the stat sheets”.
This basketball season will be Black’s final one here at South. Black said she is thankful for this team, the friendships she made, and the happiness it brought her. “I like the coaches, I like the team, and I just like all of it. They made [basketball] my favorite sport,” said Black. While Black is not playing college basketball, she “hopes to do intramural or club” to continue her passion.
Coach Kumor said, “When you have a senior leader who sincerely enjoys the game and is excited to be at practice on a daily basis, it is contagious from top to bottom. Ellie brings gains to our program through the entire year, not just the season”.
