A strong defensive stand isn't enough for the Hawks

Sophomore Ari Butts
Sophomore Ari Butts

The Hawks traveled to Santa Ana College on November 21st to compete in the Bristol Classic. Opening round match up faced Cosumnes River College against Southern California powerhouse Pasadena. 

The Hawks were slow to get out of the gate, falling to Pasadena 6-16 in the first quarter of play. The young Hawks team found it challenging to get their footing but as the second quarter pushed on the Hawks locked in on defense as well as offense cutting the lead to only 13 at the half.

Coming out of the locker room the Hawks once again struggled from the field, shooting 20% and wasn't able to find their way to the freethrow line. Once again finding themselves behind in the score. The Hawks never quit and finding that last push in the fourth quarter the Hawks outscored Pasadena 17-13. 

The young Hawks were able to hold Pasadena to a season low 61 points, which Coach Coral was very happy with after the game stating, "We've been working really hard on our defense this past week and the girls really showed up in that way tonight", adding "now we just need to show up on the offensive side of the floor and we will be a hard team to beat".

Sophomore guard Arionna Butts led the team with 14 points, chipping in 2 rebounds and 2 assists to go along with her lock down defense. Freshmen standout Chelsea Shirley added in 11 points of her own along with ripping down a game high 18 rebounds. The Hawks ended the game shooting 14-19 (74%) from the freethrow line which was another point of emphasis of the team. Assistant Coach Jenn Jacobs stated, "Freethrows are one of our main areas of focus. Our goal is to shoot 70% from the freethrow line, so we are proud of that stat tonight". 

The Hawks will face San Diego Mesa College in the consolation bracket Nov 22nd at 2pm.