Stellar First-Half Performance isn't Enough for Lady Rams to Grab First Win

On Nov. 22, the Lady Rams kept it close in the first half but got outplayed in the second as they still search for their first win of the season.

Overall, the first and second quarter were very strong for the Rams. They were playing inspiring basketball, and you could tell they were a team that was hungry to get their first win. On defense they were swarming, forcing Moraine Valley into multiple empty possessions to start the game and building a 9-3 lead early on.

After a back-and-forth first quarter, the Lady Cyclones and Lady Rams traded baskets and went into the second quarter tied at 13 a piece.

Things didn't start off so well for the Rams in the second half. They had a lot of turnovers and offensively all their lanes were being clogged up thanks to a staunch Lady Cyclones' defense.

For the Lady Cyclones, sophomore Reagan Cameron was the key to their success in the first half. She was constantly pushing transition fast breaks and driving to the hoop for easy layups.

For the Lady Rams, Tyler Mann played aggressively. Mann kept them in the game, by getting to the free-throw line, and driving to the basket with strong moves.

Things really started to pick up for the Rams towards the end of the second when they continued to get to the free throw line and also began to shoot the long ball. The Rams ended the half with strong offensive possessions and only trailed by six points in a game that was on the verge of becoming a blowout.

The Lady Cyclones started the second half on a 6-0 run and completely neutralized the Lady Rams' offense. The lady Rams couldn't find their flow, air-balling shots and getting shots blocked. The unsuccessful possessions resulted in the Cyclones building themselves a 53-31 lead and carrying it with them into the fourth quarter.

When the fourth quarter rolled around, Moraine Valley kept their foot on the gas pedal. They played hard on every single possession, jumping passing lanes and running down the court in transition. Unfortunately for the Lady Rams, the Cyclones were clicking and seemingly able to do whatever they wanted.

Wright couldn't keep up the strong first-half play and lost the game 74-43. The Lady Rams go into thanksgiving break without a win, but will look to bounce back Tuesday night against Olive-Harvey College.