Lady Cagers outscored their hosts Troy-Athens in the last quarter in Friday’s game by three points.
But the Lady Redhawks? lead in the first half worked to their benefit as they beat Clarkston, 45-42.
“Our depth wore into their lack of depth,” said Lady Wolves Varsity Basketball Coach Tim Wasilk. “We just didn’t make the plays along the stretch like we needed to. We had a chance. The girls played well and fought hard.”
The girls went into the second half trailing 19-14.
“We struggled offensively in the first half,” said Wasilk.
The girls stuck to their game plan going into the next half and put the pressure on Troy-Athens and outscored them 28-26.
Delaney Kenny led the team with 14 points. Erin Davenport scored seven and Anna Manilla six points. Megan Hastings shot two baskets from behind the 3-point line to add six. The girls finished five field goals during the game.
Wasilk also noted all 11 players were on the court and contributed during the close game.
“I was pleased with the players,” he added. “I would love to continue to play those players from the bench as long as we continue to excel.”
The girls lost to Southfield Lathrup on Dec. 7, 50-37.
Both teams stayed close on the scoreboard but going into the last quarter Southfield Lathrup picked up momentum and secured their win.
“We did a great job defensively,” said Wasilk. “Southfield Lathrup have two big post players inside. There are really strong. We did a nice job defending against them. We played well and I was happy with our efforts.”
Lindsey Reppuhn posted eight points to the board. Manilla scored seven, Hastings had six and Kenny added five points and had eight rebounds.
The girls now have an overall record, 1-3.
“We are a young team but at the same time we have experience,” said Wasilk. “With youth and experience the girls will find a way to win. We are right there and knocking on the door.”
The girls played North Farmington on Tuesday and prepared for their pressing and trapping style.
“If we handle their traps and their press it is going to give us an easy opportunity for baskets,” said Wasilk.
Next on the Lady Wolves menu is Stoney Creek before the break for the holidays.
“They are a very offensive team,” said Wasilk. “They can put up some points. We are going to have to make sure we do a very good job on the defensive side of the floor to limit their scoring opportunities.”
“Both are very well-coached,” added Wasilk. “The big focus for us this week is taking care of the basketball and putting ourselves in the position we can make baskets.”
The girls play the Lady Cougars on Friday night following the JV game, beginning at 5:30 p.m.