Lady Indians dominate Lady Eagles
The Lady Indians benefitted from big games from three sophomores and one freshman on their way to a dominating 95-59 win over Meridian Thursday night.
Lady Indians dominate Lady Eagles
Lee Adams/LetsGoICC.com
FULTON, MS – The Lady Indians benefitted from big games from three sophomores and one freshman on their way to a dominating 95-59 win over Meridian Thursday night.
"We've talked since Monday night about coming back and taking care of business at home," said head coach Nanci Gray. "The girls played really hard, have bought in to a lot of stuff that we are trying to do, and got the job done tonight."
Over the first ten minutes of the contest, the Lady Indians (4-1) were in a tight battle, as they were trading baskets with the Lady Eagles. However, Alontra Tucker (Lamar) and a trio of sophomores led the Lady Indians to a 28-7 run in the final eight minutes of the half to give them a 47-22 lead at the break.
The sophomore trio of Jeronia Allen (Minden, LA), Kaelin Kneeland (Olive Branch) and the NJCAA Player of the Week Jayla Chills (Ripley) combined for 27 first half points that set the tone for the rest of the game offensively as the Lady Indians extended their lead to as much as 40 in the second half.
The Lady Indians first half momentum carried over into the second half and they cruised to a 95-59 win.
One key to the Lady Indians' offensive success Thursday night was their defensive play. The Lady Indians held the Lady Eagles to only 35 percent shooting from the floor. The big defensive night was led by Kneeland who went head-to-head with one of the Lady Eagles top players in London Thomas, who picked up 11-points but shot only 38 percent from the floor.
"Kaelin did a great job covering 22 (Thomas)," said Gray. "I think she had one of her most incredible games tonight."
Kneeland finished the game earning her fourth double-double of the season with 15-points and picking up 11-rebounds. Chills lead the Lady Indians in scoring with 18-points, followed by Allen with 16-points and Tucker chipped in 15-points.
The Lady Indians will host Snead State on Saturday for Fan Appreciation Day where all fans get free admission. Tip-off is set for 2:00 p.m.
For more information on ICC women's basketball, follow the Indians on Twitter (@LetsGoICC).
