Clippers Cruise Over Lions

By Jeff Misener

It's playoff time in the ACAC, and the Margaret P. Reimer Memorial Gymnasium in Caronport, SK was bursting with energy as the Briercrest Clippers (13-8) entertained the Ambrose University Lions (12-9) in women's basketball action on Thursday night. Briercrest flexed a relentless defense and were full value for an 80-47 thrashing over Ambrose.

Both teams showed aggressive intentions off the opening tip, with Clippers' Melissa Ellis making a three after a steal and Lions' Andrijana Bokan attacking the hoop and knocking down free throws. Ellis' elbow three and solid interior work from Hope Jordens were matched by the Lions' Ariana Dela Paz and Brianna Thera. Claire Daubenfeld's driving basket, a bank three from Eve Duerksen, and tough team defense gave the hosts a healthy lead.  

Both teams were in a full sweat after a quarter of frenetic play and the action calmed briefly, but not before Clippers' Brooklyn Martens hit a teardrop as the shot clock expired and Tegan McArthur swished a jumper for the visitors. Briercrest forward Asia Wells attacked the Ambrose defense with fury, scoring at will. Despite many good looks, the Lions struggled to match Briercrest's offensive output, although Makenna Yeung hit twice from distance. With the hosts applying feverish full court pressure and Wells leading the offensive charge, the Clippers were in full control.

A pair of early steals from Clippers' Dori Sunderland led to a three from Beattie, and in quick succession Martens hit a scoop shot and assisted on Amber Fichtner's bucket. Duerksen swished a contested foul line jumper and Daubenfeld knocked down a triple as Briercrest had its way in all facets of the game. 

With the game well in hand, the Clippers intensified their already strong defensive effort, showing special diligence under their basket. Although Ambrose gave a good account in the offensive zone, they could not overcome the deficit.

Player of the Game for the visiting Ambrose Lions was Marin Barkey, who had 12 points, five boards and five steals. Tegan McArthur contributed nine points while Andrijana Bokan paced the visitors with eight rebounds.

Melissa Ellis starred for Briercrest and earned the POG honour on the strength of 13 points, nine rebounds and six assists, while teammate Asia Wells came off the bench to lead all players with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

Prior to the game, Clipper forward Amber Fichtner was honoured for becoming Briercrest's all-time leading scorer.