Strong defensive play helped Joliet Junior College women's basketball secure the 71-62 victory Friday over St. Cloud Technical & Community College in Coon Rapids, Minn.
The Wolves (6-6) recorded 17 steals and five blocks in a game they led by as much as 16 points. Leading the Wolves offense was sophomore guard
Demi Page, scoring 20 points off the bench and adding six rebounds, three steals, two assists and a pair of blocks.
"I think we played together and came up with energy," Page said. "The energy was contagious and that got everyone involved. I think it was a good win to start our Minnesota trip."
Freshman guardÂ
Aniela Machalski tallied 16 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals. Sophomore centerÂ
Destynia McGruder added 11 points, seven rebounds, four steals, three blocks and an assist.
"We did a great job moving the ball, finding the open player and playing unselfish basketball," said Machalski. "Our communication on defense was strong and we worked hard to stay disciplined and apply pressure throughout the game.Â
In full, the Wolves shot 44.6 percent from the field, but sinking just 7-of-24 attempts from beyond the arc. JJC held St. Cloud to 42.6 percent from the field. The Wolves scored 34 points off the bench to St. Cloud's 6.
"I can't wait until we can consistently put things together on the court," said Wolves coach
Shaun Sanderson. "We show so many signs of being that dominant team and then we hit a brick wall. Our defense was good today. Hopefully it carries over to [Saturday]."
The Wolves return to action Saturday when they face host Anoka-Ramsey at noon in their last game before the Holiday break.Â
