By Alexandria Webb
On March 3, Grand Rapids Community College Women’s Basketball defeated Lake Michigan College with an impressive final score of 81-54. They now advance in the NJCAA Great Lakes District C Championship with a record of 20-9.
It was no easy task, as the GRCC Raiders and LMC Redhawks battled to hold onto the lead in the first quarter. LMC demonstrated an ability to execute their offense through the Raiders’ pressure defense. Ending the first quarter with only a three-point lead.
Head Coach David Glazier noted the pace of the game and knew something had to change.
“I think that was just us, I don’t want to say we weren’t playing hard, but playing with a little more urgency,” said Glazier. “When we play with urgency, and we’re specific to our goals, good stuff happens.”
At the beginning of the second quarter, that is exactly what happened. The Raiders seemed to be communicating more and showing more intensity. Resulting in ending the first half with a 17-point lead.
Sophomore Forward, Emma Picarazzi, commented on adjusting to LMC’s aggressive approach.
“I think a lot of teams will try and speed us up, that’s what we’ve seen in the past too. I think it’s important just to stay calm and just do what we do,” said Picarazzi. “We are going to knock down shots, we’re going to play defense, we’re going to get boards (rebounds), and it all just has to come in time.”
Redshirt Sophomore Guard, Tianna Daye, highlights the importance of communicating with one another on the court. This helped build a better connection and understanding with one another as they entered the second quarter.
“Defensive wise, just talking more…we communicated more going into that 2nd quarter. Just us as a team, we gotta communicate,” said Daye.
Communication within a team is important, and it was shown as the Raiders continued to hold the lead throughout the rest of the game.
Despite it being spring break, the stands were filled with spectators from both teams, which brought an atmosphere of pressure and excitement. Sophomore Forward, Averi Peot, explains how to handle this pressure and what she reminds herself of when things may not go according to plan.
“Just be confident. If I’m not going to do it, my teammate’s going to do it, and if I’m not going to make the shot, then I’m going to get back on defense and help in a different way,” said Peot.
As they focus on their next game in the postseason tournament, there is much to reflect on and prepare for.
“The opportunity to compete. At this point, you’re playing really good teams, so we’re gonna have to be prepared, and we’re gonna have to clean some things up from today,” said Glazier. “But credit this group, they’re ready, they’ve already turned their attention that way.”
Tianna Daye and Emma Picarazzi tied in leading the team in three-point shots. Sophomore Forward’s, Sophia Wozniak and Averi Peot, tied with a total of eight defensive rebounds. Peot also led the team, scoring a total of 17 points.
The Raiders will travel to Flint, at the Ballenger Fieldhouse, to compete in the semi-final against Bay College on March 6, tip-off taking place at 11 a.m.
