February 3-4, 2024, Sarnia/Windsor
The Knights Women's basketball team travelled to Sarnia on Friday and Windsor on Saturday for their final road swing of the season and arguably the toughest road trip in the OCAA. The Knights (10-4) visited Lambton College first and were met with an incredible defensive display by the Lions. The Knights tried many different tactics, but despite a strong 2nd quarter, were ultimately not able to hold off the Lions who hold the first-place spot in the OCAA west division.
The Knights had to recover quickly as they travelled to Windsor that same evening to prepare for a showdown with the Saints at St. Clair College the following afternoon. Another tough matchup as the Saints sit in second place in the OCAA west division. This time the Knights put on a defensive display of their own. Despite shooting just over 30% from the floor as a team, Janee Harrison was able to complete her first double-double of the season throwing in 16 points, 12 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Combine that with Jamira Rousseau's incredible accomplishment of holding the OCAA' leading scorer to 11 points (0 in the second half!) and you have a battle. Jamira also contributed offensively with 10 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist. The Knights also had help from Taryn Mitchell with 9 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block.
Although the Knights will not be happy with the shooting game, they were forced to play some tough shots from weird angles and forced to mostly drive towards the basket. They were thrilled to be able to hold on to a late 4th quarter lead and come home with a 1-point lead, with the final score being posted at 53-52 for Niagara.
Coach Rao had this to say about the weekend trip: "Saturday versus Lambton we really struggled in the second half and did not play well, and that can be daunting with St. Clair waiting for you the next day. I'm really proud that our group was able to refocus so fast and go out and win on the road against a really good Saints team".
The Knights now have a few days to rest, recover, and prepare for their final game of the regular season at home in the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre on the Welland Campus. Tipoff will be 6pm on Wednesday, February 7th shortly after a brief ceremony to celebrate our graduating seniors.
