They were undefeated in the league, but last night, at home in a packed North gym, a tough and gritty Wildcat defense delivered the Northport Tigers their first league loss. “When you can hold Northport to a season low of only 34 points, you know our girls are delivering a great defensive effort,” said Coach Dan Trebour after the game.
The night started with Whitman acknowledging their seniors, as this would be their final regular season home game. Congratulations to both Sarah Olsen and Abigail Daniels and their families, for their dedication and support to Whitman basketball. Both teams also concluded an annual tradition, as this was the final game of the season in the Coaches vs. Cancer Classic.
The Coaches vs. Cancer program is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches. The program seeks to increase cancer awareness and promote healthy living among students, faculty and staff, fans, and the community at large. Donations are made during the month of January, when both series are played, and this year, like most in the past, contributions continue at a record pace.
As for the game itself… Whitman opened at a record pace, and while they allowed 10 points in the first period, they added 17 of their own. Northport stiffened in the 2nd period allowing only 3 points for Whitman and at the half, it was a tight game with the Wildcats ahead 20-18.
The battle intensified in the 3rd period as both teams traded baskets, but coach Dan Trebours’ Wildcats put a lid on the Tigers offense in the final period while adding 12 points of their own. Game over, Whitman earns a tough and satisfying win in their final regular season game 39-34.
For the Wildcats, Brittney Coleman again led her team with 12 points. This young sophomore has gotten really hot when is counts the most. Whitman has won their last six games. “Brittney is shooting with confidence and the respect other teams have to give her, opens up our shooting game for others to step up,” said Coach Trebour. Seniors Sarah Olsen- 6 points, and Abigail Daniels- 2 points, did a great job boxing out and creating additional scoring opportunities for Rosa Portaro, 10 points and Rose Pedretti with 5 points. Zenab Ojibe continued her dominance under the boards, wrestling loose balls into the hands of her teammates. Ojibe scored 2 points and sophomore Camilee Getchell made her point count in the win. “This was a big win for us against the league’s top team,” said Trebour. “It puts an exclamation point on a season that started out slowly and I’m proud of how our girls stepped up.”
Whitman is now 10-4 in League II play, and prepare for the playoffs that begin on Tuesday, February 17, seeding and schedules to be announced shortly.
Congratulations Lady Wildcats, and coaches Dan Trebour, Pat Mena and Ed Garrone.
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