Bella ’27 helped lead Tilton Girls’ Basketball program to a 25–4 record this season, earning a bid in the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Class AAA semifinals and capturing a Prep National Championship earning the title of back to back National Champions. 

Before arriving at Tilton, Bella was a three-time Massachusetts state champion at St. Mary’s High School in Lynn, MA. Bella is currently ranked as the nation’s No. 30 prospect in the Class of 2027 by ESPN — which is an impressive testament to her talent and dedication.

Yet Bella’s impact reaches far beyond the court. At Tilton, she is an active member of the community, serving as both a peer tutor and dorm proctor. Outside of school, she volunteers with Meals for Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing food insecurity, remains involved with her Catholic youth center, and gives back to the game as a coach at youth basketball clinics. Her commitment to service and mentorship embodies the character this award is all about. 

When asked what this recognition means to her, Bella shared, “I think it just shows all of my hard work — not just who I am as a basketball player, but as a person — and to have proven to myself that I’m worthy of this award.”

In just one year on the Hill, Bella has quickly made her presence known — not only for her performance on the basketball court, but for her growth as a community member. Looking back on her experience, she said, “The growth I’m most proud of is probably me as a person here and my maturity level — having to take care of myself and having my own impact on my skill development and my academics.”

Coach Brisson recalled a defining moment from the season of Bella. A hard-fought, back-and-forth game against Hoosac in which Tilton was not able to take the lead and needed a defensive stop. 

“When I looked in the huddle and said, okay, who wants to make the game winning shot? She was the first person to raise her hand and that’s exactly what she did,” said Brisson. “She came off a downscreen, caught the ball, shot ready, and hit a three for us.”

Bella has shown up for the Rams in countless ways this season — on and off the court — making an invaluable impact in her first year here on the Hill. When asked to reflect on her decision to take a leap and change schools, one person stood out most: Coach Brisson.

“She’s really a great mentor to me and a confidence booster,” said Bella. “I’m grateful for the opportunity she’s given me to come here, play for her, and have the success I’ve had.”

Coach Brisson left with a message to Bella and her journey here on the Hill: 

“Bella, you made a really hard decision to come to Tilton School. You left your family, you left a school that you were very comfortable with, successful at, and you chose a path that was going to be a little bit more difficult and you did it with grace and you’ve done it with confidence. So I can’t thank you enough for believing in me, believing in our basketball program and believing in Tilton School. The sky is the limit for you, kid.”