MCC loses close battle with Lakeland

The Jayhawks were narrowly defeated by the Lakeland Community College Lakers 83-77 in their final game at the Mott Roundball Classic Saturday night. The Lakers – who hail from Kirtland, Ohio featured an adaptable defense that utilizes several different zone and man coverages. The Jayhawks were able to manage most of these zone and man looks, but full court pressure from the Lakers caused nine first half turnovers from the Jayhawks. The Jayhawks trailed only 45-37 at the end of the first half. In the second half, the Jayhawks team defense was a cohesive unit, effectively shutting down driving lanes and closing out on shooters. Timely steals from sophomore guards Kevon Washington and Darius Williams led to points on the other end for the Jayhawks, and the two guards combined for a total of nine steals. Despite outscoring the Lakers 40-38 in the second half, the Jayhawks could not make up for their turnovers on the offensive end. Kevon Washington led the Jayhawks with 18 points, seven rebounds and four steals. Sophomore forward Joe Russau added 13 points and nine rebounds. Freshman forward Ny'Zhem Marshall finished with 10 points and 14 rebounds. The loss moves the Jayhawks record to 6-7. Muskegon will have some time to recuperate before their next matchup against Community Christian (Mich.). That matchup is scheduled for Tuesday, January 7th (2025) at Bartel-Rhodes gymnasium. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM.

 

                      1st            2nd          Final

MCC            37            40             77

 LCC            45            38             83