Briercrest unable to reign in surging Broncos
By Mitchell Ferreira
The explosive offence of the visiting Olds Broncos eclipsed a hundred points in a hard-fought victory over the Briercrest Clippers, winning by a score of 107-63.
After a difficult first half by Briercrest, the rookie-laden team came back with a strong effort in the second half, putting up 39 points. The first half was highlighted by a opening-minute block from second-year Claire Richardson and a couple of three-pointers from Hannah Klassen. The second quarter proved the most difficult for the Clippers, allowing Olds a 17-2 run in the latter half of the frame. Despite an unfavourable 30-point deficit to start the second half for the home team, Briercrest played with heart, giving an excellent offensive effort. Yet as was the case in last night’s game, the offensive talent of Jysie Williams, an Atlanta-native, was too much to handle. The only third-year on the first-year ACAC team, Williams was a sight to see, with a game-high 32 points. Both rebounding and turnovers plagued Briercrest.
Players of the game were the previously mentioned Williams, nominated for the second time this weekend, who amassed 32 points, six rebounds, seven assists, and four blocks. For Briercrest, rookie Karly Goertzen got the honour, with 11 points, seven rebounds and three assists.
Game notes: Briercrest was outshot 79 to 55, making 41.8% of their shots, compared to 48.1% by the visitors. Rebounds were 43 to 24 for the Broncos. From the line, Briercrest made 11 of their 16 attempts (68.8%) compared to 77% for Olds. The Clippers committed 43 turnovers to 21 of the Broncos. Blocks were 4-3 for Briercrest and steals favoured the Broncos 26-6. Team leaders for Briercrest were Claire Richardson with 22 points, 14 shots and seven rebounds and Hannah Klassen with three steals.
Briercrest resumes play on the road, visiting SAIT the 25th and 26th of January. They return home the following weekend to play the Red Deer Queens.