Olivet, MI- Playing their 7th game in 16 days, the Mount Mary Basketball team had their hands full at Olivet College on Wednesday evening. For most of the first half it looked like a four quarter battle may be in the offing. Unfortunately for the Blue Angels, Olivet used their superior size and depth to fast break and pressure their way to control the second half and win the game by a 74-46 final.
A three point shot by Alexus Hatcher gave Mount Mary a 22-21 lead midway through the second quarter, Olivet used a timeout and the momentum seemed to change at that point. The Comets finished the first half on a 15-4 run and took a 36-26 lead into the locker room at half.
Quarter number three was largely the difference the game, Olivet won the quarter 23-8 and extended their lead to an amount that was too step for MMU to erase. With each missed shot or turnover, the fresher Comets transitioned quickly from defense to offense and converted the fast breaks into points or Blue Angel fouls. Foul trouble plagued Mount Mary, shortening their rotation and certainly contributing to the fatigue from the Olivet pressure.
Mount Mary was not as damaged by turnovers as they have been in other games this season, however 3-23 three point shooting was impossible for them to overcome. Skye Giddings continued her stellar play, with 18 points, 2 steals and only 1 turnover in 38 minutes of action. Deja Rivers chipped in with 12 points and 8 rebounds, and Alexus Hatcher also cleaned the glass for eight rebounds.
India Lucas continued her well rounded floor play with 5 points, 4 rebounds and 4 steals. Talesa Campbell also contributed in many different ways, she tallied 6 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals.
The Blue Angels (1-6) have completed a busy 7 game month of November with several bright sports with much to build on. They have snapped an overall 20 plus game losing streak, held multiple second half leads and have largely played a competitive brand of basketball. The young team will look to continue their growth with three straight home games. Two will occur back to back, December 3rd and 4th, against Principia College and Andrews University, both at 1 pm. Stay tuned to www.mtmaryathletics.com for updates and live coverage.
