Thunder Bay – Sports – The Lakehead University Thunderwolves women’s basketball team completed their regular season home schedule on Saturday with a 71-45 win over the Western Mustangs.
It was a special evening, with Jylisa Williams, Katie Ulakovic and Corina Bruni being recognized as 5th year graduating seniors in a post-game ceremony. Jylisa’s mother, (also American) even sang the Canadian national anthem, twice, much to the enjoyment of the 1000+ Thunderdome crowd.
Western dug in to begin the game, limiting Lakehead to 14 points in the first quarter. The dam would eventually burst, as Lakehead’s pressure defense was far too much for the Mustangs, who committed 25 turnovers on the game, including at least 10 shot clock violations.
Lakehead led by 12 at the half (32-20), and expanded it as the second half elapsed. It acted as a good opportunity for Lakehead’s bench to get some reps in as the team prepares to finish the regular season and get ready for the playoffs.
Jylisa Williams scored 28 points with 10 rebounds to lead the ‘Wolves. Essa Jacobsen scored 15 with 6 rebounds.
Victoria Heine had 11 points and 9 rebounds for the Mustangs.
“Seniors’ night is an emotional one and it was special for me as all three athletes mean so much to our program and have done so much and been through even more. We played great defence tonight and scored out of it. We struggled to shoot it tonight but Jylisa kept us in it and Essa stepped up big for us. Bridget O’Reilly played very tough for us and found ways to contribute besides the long ball,” stated Coach Jon Kreiner.
The women complete the regular season next week in Guelph.
