Playing Beyond Her Years: Savannah Ramirez Rise at Manteca High

Manteca High freshman Savannah Ramirez (right).

By ALAYAH DUENES 
The Tower 

MANTECA - While most freshmen are still adjusting to high school, Savannah “Savy” Ramirez is already competing at the varsity level, earning her place as the only freshman on Manteca High School’s girls' basketball team. 

Ramirez’s story highlights how discipline, confidence, and dedication can fast-track success. Competing against older and more experienced players, she has proven she belongs on varsity and is helping shape the future of Manteca High basketball. 

With eight years of basketball experience, Ramirez plays multiple positions, including point guard and shooting guard. Her versatility allows her to adapt quickly to the pace of varsity to play. Her talent and work ethic have also earned her recognition on the San Joaquin Record’s NET page, spotlighting her as a standout local athlete. 

“Savannah is doing well for us,” said girls varsity head coach Oscar Calix. “As a freshman on varsity, there’s a lot of pressure on her to lead, but she’s been up for the challenge. She’s competitive, loves the game, and wants to win.” 

Calix added that mistakes are part of the learning process, especially for a freshman, but Ramirez continues to grow both mentally and physically. Balancing academics with practices and games, she remains focused in the classroom and on the court. 

As her high school career is just beginning, Savannah Ramirez has already laid a durable foundation. Her growth, leadership, and passion for the game make her a standout athlete and one to watch in the seasons ahead. 

The Tower caught up with varsity freshman Savannah Ramirez talking about her basketball journey.  

The Tower: Please introduce yourself by stating your name, grade, how long you’ve been playing basketball, and the positions you play. 

Savannah Ramirez: My name is Savannah Ramirez. I am a freshman on the varsity basketball team. I have been playing basketball for eight years. I play point guard and shooting guard. 

TT: What inspired you to start playing basketball? 

SR: I was seven years old, and my brother played basketball. He loved playing basketball and football. He told me to dribble a basketball, and we started practicing in his room. I really loved the sport from that point on. 

TT: How does it feel being a varsity player as a freshman? 

SR: It amazes me because I am surprised, I pushed myself that hard. There are older girls on the team who push me, and I push them as well. We motivate each other to keep going. 

TT: Who inspires you when you play basketball?

SR: Paige Bueckers inspires me. I really like how she plays in the WNBA, and I want to play like her one day. 

TT: What is your biggest struggle or concern as an athlete? 

SR: My biggest concern is injuries. Varsity basketball is fast-paced and physical, and injuries such as concussions and ankle injuries can happen easily. 

TT: What goal do you hope to achieve while playing basketball? 

SR: I hope to go to a Division I college and eventually make it to the WNBA. 

TT: Do you see yourself continuing to play basketball after high school? 

SR: Yes, I definitely want to continue playing basketball. 

TT: What has been the happiest moment of your basketball career so far? 

SR: My happiest moment was going to the championship in eighth grade. Even though we lost, it was a great experience because my teammates were close friends, and we had strong team chemistry. 

TT: What advice would you give to someone who may be in your position? 

SR: I would tell them to push themselves and not listen to negativity, even from older players. Stay focused, believe in yourself, and keep pushing forward.