Undefeated In League Play No More

University Center, MI – Of all the games on the season thus far to be unprepared, the Delta College women's team couldn't have picked a worse one.  With Schoolcraft sporting an undefeated record – and sitting just one-half game behind Delta for first place – the Ocelots showed just how deceiving their 4-13 record was as they beat DC on Saturday, 68-59.

"We talk about preparation, and progress, in Saturday's game we took steps back not forward," said head coach Kelly Miller.  "Our preparation went out the window.  We were confronted (by) a team just as determined as (we were) not to lose and their effort outweighed ours."

The opening quarter saw both teams come out with intensity in a back-and-forth effort that saw the Pioneers take a 17-13.   Schoolcraft came out to open the second quarter determined to drive to the basket which forced Delta to regroup as they fell behind.  Schoolcraft continued to play gritty defense, diving on the floor for loose balls and forcing consecutive turnovers which ultimately led to 32-29 halftime lead.

"Coming into the game we knew that it would be a challenge," said Miller.  "Schoolcraft always works hard and fights until the end."

Schoolcraft continued to drive to the hoop at the onset of the third quarter and got to the free throw line consistently, hitting on 21 of 25 attempts in the game.   Delta continued to counter, however, and after three quarters of play the Delta deficit was just four points.

The Pioneers just couldn't regain the momentum, however, as the visitors forced 21 turnovers in the game and eventually won by nine points.

Jenna Szostak led Delta in scoring with 18 points while Lauren Rogers and Harmany Williams each added 13.  Waskwane Stonefish dropped in seven point while dishing out four assists with four steals and seven boards. 

"At the end of the day Schoolcraft is one of those teams that we hope to split with," said Miller.  "They came and took a game from us at home today and in February we look to go do the same in their place.

The loss drops Delta to 4-1 in the MCCAA Eastern Conference and 9-7 overall.  They currently sit in third place, one-half game behind first place Schoolcraft and Macomb and one full game ahead of fourth place St. Clair. 

"Undefeated in conference play was nice but it's about progress not perfection," said Miller. Delta next hosts St. Clair County on Saturday, January 28^th.  Tip-off is scheduled for 1pm.