Girls basketball in Western New York gains a spotlight with the addition of a girls game to the 716-585 Classic, creating a new tradition led by Brianna Barr-Buday to showcase women's talent in high school basketball.

The event aims to equalize recognition and opportunities between boys and girls basketball, expanding the platform for female players in the region.

• Barr-Buday's Team Buffalo features players like Aliza Whitehead, Megan Milleville, Sophia Waliszewski, Annabelle Day, and more from Western New York.
• The Team Buffalo roster comprises six seniors, five juniors, and two sophomores, showcasing a mix of talent across different grades.

Despite progress, disparities and stereotypes persist in gender equality and recognition between boys and girls basketball in the sports community.

• The addition of the girls game to the 716-585 Classic signals a shift towards more inclusivity and opportunity for female high school basketball players.
• The event's expansion reflects a broader trend of efforts to bridge the gap and provide equal platforms for showcasing talent in both boys and girls sports.

As the event unfolds, the focus shifts towards the impact on the future of women's basketball in Western New York and the continued efforts to promote gender equality in sports.

The 716-585 Classic's embrace of girls basketball marks a positive step towards equal recognition and opportunities for female athletes, fostering a more inclusive and diverse sports community in the region.