The Lakeland women's basketball team bounced back from a heartbreaking loss to defeat the Erie CC Kats 82-32 in the consolation bracket of the TJ Memorial Tournament. With the win, the Lakers improved to 2-1 on the early season. Lakeland started fast in this game beginning the game on an 8-0 run. They played strong defense and were aggressive from the tip as they won each quarter decisively. From the strong start, Lakeland cruised and never looked back playing consistent sound defense throughout. The Lakers had four players score in double digits and every player scored at least one field goal. Selah Richardson and Armani Jackson each scored 19 points for Lakeland while both Gianna Pegoraro and Rayonna Peterson each scored 13 points.  Makayla Cooper and Dior Morgan each scored 5 points while Triniti Lee led the team with 8 rebounds. Julie Hajdu and Kierra Stiggers made several hustle plays that kept the Lakers engines churning throughout the contest. As a team, Lakeland shot 52.3% from the field.

Gardy's gab:  "It was a nice bounce back effort and win for us today. We certainly showed more consistent effort and energy then we did last night. Throughout the game we played pretty good defense that put us in a good position to make some shots – and we were able to convert today. Though an improved effort, we still are not where we need to be. We have a good group though and we will continue to work to get better."

Next up: Lakeland has a tough road stretch coming up as they are away for the next 4 games.  It will begin next Friday (11/15) when they travel to Genesee CC for a 5pm start. The Lakers will then match up against these same Erie CC Kats at 1pm on Saturday (11/16). On Wednesday (11/20), Lakeland will travel to Lorain County for a 5:30 pm tip with the Commodores before visiting Hocking College on Saturday (11/23) for a 1 pm game.  Lakeland will finally return home on Tuesday (11/26) when they will play host to the Saints from Mercyhurst NE at 5:30 pm.  Admission is free.