After not having a team for two seasons, the Man Lady Billies simply being able to compete was an accomplishment. However, Man got a huge boost to its resurgence in just the third game of the season as the Lady Billies routed Independence, 72-51, on Monday in Man.
Interim head coach Matthew Mayo knew the wins and losses would come, but even he was surprised by how well the Lady Billies played.
“It was a wonderful feeling to get a win this early,” said Mayo. “They really exceeded expectations. The defense was solid. Offensively, we shot the ball well. We hit our free throws. The girls are excited, and the community is excited. All in all, it was a wonderful night.”
Man (1-2) jumped on top of Independence out of the gate. The Lady Billies led 14-9 after the first quarter and 38-22 at the half. Man extended its lead in the third period and held onto the lead with only four players on the floor for the final few minutes. Man only had two players on the bench due to injuries and illness. When three players fouled out, Man was forced to play the remainder of the game in a 2-2 zone on defense.
Kami Anderson led the way with 25 points. Tori Honaker followed with 15 points. Jenna Baisden dropped in 11 points. Braylee Thompson fired in 10 points. Megan McCoy netted 7 points. Jace Baisden chipped in 5 points.
“The effort was wonderful,” added Mayo. “It blew me away to see them play like this. “I have seen this potential in them to play like this from the beginning. And to see them come out there and play like this – I am so pleased with their effort. I just can’t say enough about these young ladies.”
Man will play again on Tuesday when it travels to River View. The Lady Billies will then visit Scott on Thursday. The opening tip is set for 7 pm for both games.
Photos Courtesy of Tiffany Caserta
