Briercrest Opens With Commanding “V” Over Olds

By Jeff Misener

Fresh off their stunning bronze medal-winning performance at last year's ACAC women's basketball championships, the Briercrest Clippers opened their 2023-24 campaign against the Olds Broncos. Led by a core of seasoned veterans, the Clippers sailed to a comprehensive 81-35 victory.

Olds opened the game with half-court pressure which Briercrest expertly dismantled. The Broncos laboured on offense, settling for shots from distance, while the Clippers benefitted from the efforts of Brooklyn Martens and Amber Fichtner on the offensive boards. Haylee-Jo Heggie hit a three for Olds, only to have Clipper guard Dori Sutherland respond with a short jumper and a three-point play.

Briercrest continued to dominate in the paint even as their defense limited Olds' attack. Olds' forward Meghan Swartz and Clippers' guard Kendall Evans traded threes before Sunderland knocked down a pair of baskets to extend the host's lead. Briercrest guard Melissa Ellis went to the bank on a three to close the first half.

Clippers' Martens controlled the defensive end while guard Hannah Matuszewski conducted the offense. Briercrest routinely limited the Broncos' second chance opportunities, while on the offensive end, the home squad made repeated successful forays to the hoop.

Down the stretch, the Clippers were clinical at the hoop and from distance, with back-to-back triples from Claire Daubenfeld highlighting the team's overall control. Defensively, the hosts were relentless in smothering Olds' shooters and securing rebounds.

Player of the Game for Briercrest was Hannah Matuszewski, who skilfully managed the offense while contributing four points, six boards, a steal and an assist. Clipper forwards Brooklyn Martens and Amber Fichtner notched double doubles in a winning cause. Meghan Swartz starred for Olds with 14 points and six rebounds.