Girls’ Basketball bounces back after tough loss

By Nader Ihmoud

Lane’s Varsity Girls Basketball Team’s strategy was simple. Slow down St. Benedictine’s offense, control the tempo, limit the outside shooting, and dominate inside. They did just that in a 52-40 victory Saturday afternoon.

After losing a hard fought game to Von Steuben the previous night, Coach Feeley knew that if her team put forth the same effort and focused on improving in specific areas, they would not have much trouble against a lesser St. Bens team.

“We need to come out with the same intensity,” said Feeley, “but we have to improve on defense and deny the pass.”

Lane started the game with a 13-0 run, that set the tone for the game. Lane’s defense caused six turnovers in a five minute span that led to seven points off of turnovers. Jazmin Carranza, Div. 055, led the charge with seven points, three assists, and three steals.

“[Carranza] sees the court better than any other point guard I have ever coached,” said Coach Feeley.

In Friday night’s loss to Von Steuben, Carranza kept Lane in the game the entire night, scoring 27 of her team’s 50 points.

The Lady Indians needed other players to step up Saturday. Jolynn Barry, Div. 024, and Heather Ksiazek, Div. 023, provided that spark on both sides of the court.

“Jolynn brings us offense off the bench and no one can compete with Heather’s defensive intensity,” said.

Lane’s size also played a big role in Saturday’s game. Lane’s center, Olivia Fuentes, Div. 170, dominated in the post scoring 10 points while controlling the boards.

“I was able to catch the ball [in the post] and block easily,” said Fuentes. “It was hard for them to stop me.”

“[Fuentes] played well, she boxed out, got key boards, and had nice finishes offensively,” said Feeley.

After only scoring 11 points in the first half, St. Ben’s struggles caused Lane to relax in the second half.

“The game is never over,” said Carranza, “We did not play as aggressive [in the second half], and we gave up too many second chance shots.”

Though St. Bens cut into Lane’s lead, the Lady Indians were comfortably in control late, and sent their second unit onto the court for the majority of the fourth quarter.

“We came out strong and let them know it was our house,” said Carranza.