Illinois Central College Women’s Basketball Team Faces Tough Loss in Championship Opener

News Summary

The Illinois Central College women’s basketball team faced a challenging start to the NJCAA Division II National Championships, suffering an 89-58 defeat against No. 5 seed Union from New Jersey. Despite the loss, key players like Savannah Orgeron and Lily Luczkowiak showcased their talents, leaving fans hopeful for future games. ICC will aim for redemption in their next matchup, scheduled for Wednesday. The team’s impressive season record of 25-8 reflects their hard work and resilience as they continue their journey in the championship.

Illinois Central College Women’s Basketball Team Faces Tough Loss in National Championship Opener

JOPLIN, Missouri – The vibe was shifting in the air as the Illinois Central College (ICC) women’s basketball team stepped onto the court for their first game at the NJCAA Division II National Championships. Hopes were high, especially after their impressive season, but unfortunately, the game did not go as planned. The team, which entered the tournament as the No. 12 seed, came up short against the No. 5 seed Union from New Jersey, suffering a tough loss with a final score of 89-58.

Game Highlight: Union’s Star Player Shines

The game took place in the Leggett & Platt Center on the Missouri Southern State University campus, and from the get-go, it was clear that Union was not messing around. One player, in particular, stood out from the pack: Destiny Bynum Johnson. She was on fire throughout the match, racking up a staggering 35 points on 15-for-31 shooting, which included five long-range bombs from beyond the arc. Her impressive performance definitely played a key role in Union’s advance to the quarterfinals.

ICC’s Key Players Step Up

Despite the defeat, the ICC team showed some heart. Leading the charge was Savannah Orgeron, who scored an admirable 19 points and helped out with nine rebounds. She showcased her skills and determination, reminding fans why she’s a vital part of the squad. Another notable mention from the game was Lily Luczkowiak, hailing from Illini Bluffs, who contributed 10 points to the team’s total. While it wasn’t the outcome they hoped for, their efforts deserve a shout-out.

Next Up for ICC

Looking ahead, ICC’s journey isn’t over just yet! They will take the court again on Wednesday at 1 p.m. and will face off against either Johnson County Community College or North Platte Community College. The team is certainly aiming for redemption, determined to come back stronger in their next matchup. And if they need it, a potential third game has been slotted for Friday, March 21.

How to Catch the Action

For fans wanting to cheer on ICC, the good news is that all tournament games will be broadcast live on the NJCAA Network for a subscription fee. Additionally, audio coverage is available online at Mixlr, so you can still stay tuned wherever you are!

A Season to Remember

This season, ICC has put in plenty of hard work, wrapping up with a solid record of 25-8. They’ve battled through the ups and downs, demonstrating resilience and grit all along the way. While this game did not end as they had hoped, the players and coaching staff can hold their heads high; they’ve made it to the national stage, proving they belong among the best.

The passion for the sport and the spirit of competition continue to shine bright in ICC women’s basketball, and fans are excited to see what lies ahead for this talented team. As the championship continues, the journey is far from over, and who knows what thrilling surprises await? Let’s keep our fingers crossed for some inspirational play from the girls in their next game!

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Additional Resources

• PJ Star: ICC Women’s Basketball Team Faces Tough Loss
• KNOP News: NPCC Men’s Basketball Coach Inducted
• North Platte Bulletin: Knight Women Pull Upset
• Wikipedia: National Junior College Athletic Association
• Encyclopedia Britannica: National Junior College Athletic Association