The Lakeland women's basketball team played host to the Jamestown Jayhawks tonight in non-league action at Laker Gym. Lakeland fell by a final of 78-57. The game was a tale of two halves as the teams battled back and forth throughout the entire first half. Both teams would trade baskets while neither team was able to take control. The Lakers played strong defense in the first half and coupled that with good shooting while the Jayhawks countered the whole half. The teams went into the break tied at 35. Da'Vionna Singleton paced the Lakers with 12 first half points on the strength of a pair of 3-pointers. Jai'Lynne Hitt-Swartz also provided strong offense as she finished the half with 9 points. Monica Devine and Nitzy Rios controlled the inside play as they defended strongly while cleaning up the boards. Monetta Hilory and Kiara Smith controlled the pace as the high energy duo played strong ball defense while setting up the Lakers offense throughout.

The 3rd quarter was the difference in the game. The Lakers were outscored 22-9 in the period as the Jayhawks hit three 3-pointers and took advantage of some Laker foul trouble. The Lakers short bench was unable to sustain the attack and the Jayhawks eventually pulled away for the win.

Jai'Lynne Hitt-Swartz led the Lakers with 19 points while Da'Vionna Singleton finished her evening with 14 points. Monetta Hilory scored 8 points in the game while Monica Devine finished with 6 points. Nitzy Rios and Kiara Smith both added 5 points in the Laker loss.  

Gardy's Gab: "We just ran out of gas. We played fairly well in the first half, but were unable to sustain it. The fouls early in the 3rd quarter were key and five 3's in the second half were just too much to overcome. We worked hard and I was proud of our effort.  We have to learn and move forward quickly as we have another tough challenge coming up Friday."

Next Up: The Lakers will play host to the St. Clair County Skippers on Friday (11/7) in Laker Gym. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 pm.