The DCB Ladyjack basketball team competed in the Sleep Inn Shootout this past weekend in Devils Lake, North Dakota.  DCB played two games against good competition in the tournament and continued to improve.

In game 1, DCB played a very strong Gillette College team, falling 97-63 to the Pronghorns.  Actually the game was closer than the score appears.  The Ladyjacks had trouble early giving up 31 in the first quarter in a fast paced game.  Abby Simons led DCB with 18 points while Sydnie Nelson and Lauren Gangl each added 13 points on

Despite the loss, Coach Johnson was encouraged.  "Overall it was a decent night against a quality opponent. In spite of the loss I believe we are moving forward."  

On Saturday, DCB played another good team in Iowa Western, falling 92-71.  The Ladyjacks trailed by 19 at halftime, but cut the lead to 8 in the 3rd quarter and battled all day against a strong NJCAA Division 1 program.  Abby Simons had good all-around game scoring 22 points with rebounds with 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals.  Jayla Howard contributed in a big way with 18 points while Sydnie Nelson led DCB with 4 assists while scoring 6 points.  Also helping out the Jacks were Trinity Goggles with 13 points and Morgan Reiser with 7.

Coach Johnson was pleased despite the score.  "In spite of the defeat we may have played one of our better games of the season, especially offensively.  Overall, there were many positives from the weekend.  I liked the fight we had vs two really quality opponents.  I thought we learned a lot that will help us make the progress we seek." 

The next action for the Ladyjacks will be in the Woodshed at the DCB Classic this weekend.  They open with Canadian Mennonite University at 6:00 on Friday, then will play Sisseton Wahpeton College at 3:00 on Saturday.