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Rolling Meadows senior guard Lily Greifenstein had plenty of summer plans.
Besides taking in some relaxation and enjoying the sunshine, Greifenstein had scheduled plenty of time on the basketball court.
After playing key minutes during her junior season in a crowded and talented backcourt, Greifenstein anticipated working on her game most of the summer.
But a June knee injury sidelined her for nearly the entire summer. She was cleared to play on Aug. 31.
“It was devastating,” she said. “I had high hopes and loved AAU and felt it really prepared me for the season. I felt (the knee injury) wasn’t a big step back, but definitely put a dent (in my development).”
Entering her third year on varsity, Greifenstein acknowledged the injury taught her many lessons. She learned the importance of playing hard in every practice and game.
“I really put in a ton of work during the summer and after the summer,” she said. “Once I was cleared, I worked so hard. I pushed myself before, but (after) my knee surgery I pushed myself even more. I went to the gym a lot, did a lot of strengthening stuff and worked hard.”
Rolling Meadows coach Ryan Kirkorsky noted that Greifenstein’s quick recovery was a plus for a team reeling from a potential season-ending injury to junior guard Bridget Rolla in the summer.
“Lily is one of those kids that shows up in big moments,” he said. “She consistently knocks down big shots for us, can play both guard spots for us and is one of our top defenders.
“Last year, she was one of the top scorers in the area. She has the ability to knock down 3s and get to the rim.”
Kirkorsky said Greifenstein meshes well with senior guard Alexa Davis. Their experience has helped the Mustangs navigate a tough early schedule. Greifenstein led the Mustangs with 15 points in a loss to Lake Park on Dec. 11.
Davis scored a game-high 18 points in Friday’s win against Elk Grove. The Mustangs have won 11 of their first 14 games.
“Me and Alexa have played together for a long time,” Greifenstein said. “We both have a lot of confidence and experience. After my injury, I just focus on playing hard and taking it one day at a time.”
Kirkorsky said he leans on his senior guard duo to help the younger players. Freshman guards Moira Hickey and Alison Sellergren are playing key minutes for the Mustangs.
“It helps having experienced senior guards,” he said. “We can turn to them during tough times, when we are down five or six points. You can’t replace those seniors.”