By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

RESERVE – Riverside’s been well-known for its powerhouse boys basketball team, but this past season saw the Lady Rebels explode onto the map as well, earning plenty of headlines of their own. Senior Kelsey Joseph was a big reason why.

That didn’t go unnoticed at the next level, and that’s where the Rebels’ guard is headed next season after officially signing with Xavier University recently, Joseph putting pen to paper at a ceremony at Riverside last week.

“I feel honored,” said Joseph. “This is something I’ve wanted for a long time. I’m glad to get to the next level.”

Joseph averaged 11 points per game for Riverside and helped lead the Rebels to the most wins in program history, the team finishing with a record of 22-10.

The Rebels also recorded the second playoff win in team history on the back of an explosive offensive performance, a 90-54 home victory over Capitol.

Joseph racked up 22 points and eight assists in that game, the latest clutch performance in a season that saw her step forward consistently in big spots.

The team’s lone senior, Joseph stepped up to set a strong example for her team.

“You know, last year we had no seniors, and I wasn’t sure who would step up in that leadership role,” said Riverside coach Kristy Hebert. “Everyone was looking at each other on the court, looking for someone to step up. This year, Kelsey embraced that role. She took the lead when we needed it, and that made everything a lot easier.”

Joseph said that she understood it was what was needed.

“I knew I had no choice,” said Joseph. “Being the only senior … I felt like when I played with confidence, everyone else did as well. They’d see me do it and know, ‘I can do it, too.’”

Hebert said Joseph saw her game blossom as the season rolled on.

“She could get to the basket and pull up for that short jumper,” said Hebert.

“As the season went on, she improved her shot selection and didn’t force as many. Teams had to respect that jumper she had, and it became easier for her to score.”

The coach said Joseph provided a strong example on the court and off, not just leading through her play but also through her practice habits and success in the classroom.

Xavier, Joseph said, proved to be the perfect fit after careful consideration.

“It’s an amazing school. Everyone there is extremely nice,” said Joseph. “It’s pleasing to my eyes. I just felt good there.”