A Summer of Growth
When Haley McGuire launched the 978HERS Basketball League in Lowell, the goal was simple: give local girls a chance to play at a competitive level after the success of the 978ERS boys league. What unfolded over two months was more than a series of games; it was a cultural moment that brought together families, players, and neighbors across the Merrimack Valley.
Six teams — named after WNBA franchises such as the Sparks, Wings, Fever, Aces, Liberty, and Sky — featured players from seventh grade through high school seniors in Lowell, Tewksbury, Billerica, Lawrence, Haverhill, and nearby prep schools. Standout performances came from eighth‑grade point guard Sydney Schofield, who led the league in scoring and assists, and Maddie Marshall of Phillips Andover, who was the top pick and later the championship’s leading scorer.
The league’s unique atmosphere, underscored by music during games, drew large crowds to the Collegiate Charter School gym and earned praise from parents and players alike. Commissioner Haley McGuire, a former Lowell Catholic star who later played at UMass Boston and UMass Lowell, called the inaugural season "unbelievable," citing both the talent on display and the enthusiastic community response.
Funding came from NBA player Terance Mann, a Lowell native who attended every tryout and supported the league through his Terance Mann Complete Player Foundation. His involvement helped cover costs and lent the event a professional sheen that resonated with participants.
The championship game saw the Sparks defeat the Wings, with Maddie Marshall contributing 14 points. The victory capped a season that not only showcased emerging talent but also highlighted the power of local investment in youth sports. Organizers, including former 978ERS commissioner Elliot Vargas, plan to build on this momentum, aiming to expand the league’s reach and deepen its community ties in the coming years.