The Thayer girls varsity basketball team had the special opportunity to play at TD Garden on Sunday night, taking on Milton Academy in a game the team had anticipated all season. The experience lived up to the hype, delivering a competitive and memorable night on one of basketball’s biggest stages.

With both teams familiar with one another, scoring was hard to come by early. Strong defense on both ends led to a tightly contested first half, with Milton holding a narrow one-point lead at the break. Thayer responded in the fourth quarter, utilizing timely shots and smart decisions to take control and hold the lead down the stretch.

Cassidy Mullin ’26 led the Tigers with 13 points, while Sophie Gaultier ’28 added 9. Off the bench, Malia Green ’27 and Hannah Keleher ’29 provided a big lift, combining for 14 points and strong rebounding efforts. Abigail Burrell ’27 finished with 8 points, and Mari Lamonica ’28 chipped in 7. Every player on the roster saw the court and contributed to the team effort.

“Coaching at the TD Garden was an incredible experience," said Head Coach Billy O’Dwyer ’02. "Being able to coach on the same floor as the Celtics was amazing. I am so happy my team got to experience this, and I cannot thank Bobbi Moran and the Athletic Department enough for the opportunity. I know my girls (and myself) will never forget that day.”

The game was part of The Andrew James Lawson Foundation Invitational, an event dedicated to advancing and improving the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Foundation supports and promotes programs, projects, and individual scholarships that encourage inclusion and create meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities within their communities.

For the Tigers, the night was about more than just the final score — it was a shared experience and a lasting memory on one of basketball’s most iconic venues.

Photos from the game can be viewed HERE.