After two challenging games against top-ranked teams, the Lady Wolfpack sets its sights on Dillard.
Loyola’s thrilling upset win against the University of Mobile (74-70), now No. 24 in the NAIA, went into double overtime last Thursday at The Den.
Still rolling off of a home victory against William Carey College, coach Dobee Plaisance was impressed by the performance but not surprised.
“What’s interesting about Mobile is that they’d been in the top 25 all season, but we’ve also been beating teams in the top 25 all season,” Plaisance said. “Under the circumstances, it was a great win.”
In the second overtime, Loyola gained the lead when mass communication junior Kiely Schork scored a three-pointer, quickly followed with a jump shot by criminal justice graduate student Dani Holland. With 2:04 of playing time left, the girls held on to a four-point lead.
Saturday’s loss against Xavier, ranked No. 23, tested the Lady Wolfpack’s willpower. Although Loyola was up in the second half after two free throws from psychology freshman Trenese Smith, Xavier outscored Loyola 12-3 in the last 3:27 of overtime.
“Xavier and Mobile are two different styles of teams, so we had two different game plans,” Plaisance said. “What was significant is that we actually went up in regulation and put them away. It just demonstrates the perseverance of these women.”
Considering the varying experience levels of each team speaks even louder for Loyola’s tenacity.
“Most of the starting players for Xavier were seniors, but we’ve been getting a lot of play from our underclassman and seeing what they can do, so it’s good for Loyola now and in future seasons.”
Loyola’s top scorers throughout the season have consistently been Trenese and her twin sister Trenell Smith, psychology freshmen. Trenese averages 15 points an outing, while Trenell adds 12 a game.
This Saturday, the Wolfpack will face Dillard University at Delgado Community College at 5:30 p.m.
“Dillard is going to show a different style also. I’m very confident in our women and their determination. I’m hoping it will get us a good solid footing into the conference and hopefully the national tournament.”
For a recap of the seesaw affair that was the game against Xavier, read women’s beat writer Daniel Alvarez’s recap at www.loyolamaroon.com.
Nicole Mundy can be reached at [email protected].
