MCC GIRLS BASKETBALL TAKES FIRST LOSS AGAINST PIPESTONE

The MCC Rebel Girls have opened the season with four straight wins, their best start in 15 years. The Rebels on Monday played another undefeated team - the Pipestone Arrows have also won their first four games. Both teams came into the game without a practice but on Monday it was a battle in which the Arrows would prevail.

The Rebels started the game hot, knocking down four first half three point shots. Reese Gilbertson led the way in the first half for the Rebels scoring 8 points in what would be a defensive battle. The Rebels defense held Jaydn Kor to two first half points, which was impressive when you consider Kor is averaging nearly 24 points per game. The Arrows got a solid first half contributions as Taryn Tuinstra and Emersyn Smit scored 7 points each. The Arrows led at the half 24 to 21.

The Rebels kept it close in the second half. MCC tied the game on two Calliegh Doeden free throws, but at that point the Rebels offense got cold. MCC only scored 20 second half points but only eight points after the game was tied. Jaydn Kor dropped three three-point shots in the second half, scoring 11 points. Tuinstra continued her strong play scoring another nine points in the second half helping the Arrows pull away. Pipestone won the game 53 to 41.

The Arrows used their strong rebounding to secure the victory. Pipestone outrebounded the Rebels 50 to 37 including 22 offensive rebounds which led to 14 more shots than MCC. The Rebels were led by Reese Gilbertson who scored 12 points while Ava Deacon and Kate Blankenship chipped in with 9 each. Three Arrows scored in double figures led by Tuinstra with 16, Kor and Emersyn Smith scored 11 each. The Rebels are now 4-1 on the year.