16th Ranked Mid Takes Down ACC
ALPENA, Mich. – The Alpena Community College Lady Lumberjacks faced a difficult challenge on Friday afternoon, falling to the number 19 team in the country in NJCAA Division 2, the Mid Michigan College Lakers 107-28 at Park Arena.
The loss drops Alpena to 4-11 overall and 0-5 in conference play, while Mid Michigan improved to 15-3 and maintained their perfect 4-0 conference record.
Freshman center Brooke Portice led the Lady Lumberjacks' offensive effort with 14 points on 5-for-12 shooting while adding eight rebounds and a blocked shot in 38 minutes of action. Portice also converted four of eight free throw attempts in her team-high scoring performance.
Saige Flaugher added eight points despite a challenging shooting night, while forward Sarah Wyglendowski contributed four points and six rebounds. Lillie Maser pulled down six rebounds in 34 minutes of play.
The Lakers showcased their offensive depth with five players reaching double figures. Forward Abigail Lautzenheiser paced Mid Michigan with 18 points on 7-for-14 shooting, adding seven rebounds and five steals. Delaney Seaman and Gracie Mellinger each contributed 16 and 17 points respectively, with Mellinger dishing out six assists and Seaman recording six steals.
The Lakers' defensive pressure proved overwhelming, forcing 49 Alpena turnovers while committing just seven of their own. Mid Michigan also dominated the boards with a 56-34 rebounding advantage.
Mid Michigan established control early, racing out to a 38-5 lead after the first quarter. The Lakers extended their advantage to 56-13 at halftime before cruising through the second half. Alpena managed 10 points in the third quarter but was held to just five in both the first and fourth periods.
The Lady Lumberjacks will need to regroup and focus on taking care of the basketball as they continue conference play on Wednesday, Jan. 28 hosting North Central Michigan College (2-15 overall, 0-5 conference). Reducing turnovers and finding offensive rhythm will be key priorities as the team searches for their first conference victory of the season.
For more information on Alpena Community College athletics, visit alpenacc.prestosports.com
