Joliet Junior College women's basketball kept its playoff hopes alive with a dominant 98-61 victory over Harper College on Tuesday night.
Needing to win their final two games to secure a postseason berth, the Wolves (12-13) came out focused. The first quarter was a competitive back-and-forth battle, with JJC holding a five-point, 21-16 lead after one.
In the second quarter, the Wolves began to pull away. JJC forced five turnovers and delivered a well-rounded offensive performance to build a 51-33 halftime advantage.
The Wolves continued to control the tempo in the second half, shutting down Harper runs and stretching the lead to 19 heading into the fourth quarter before finishing strong for the 98-61 win.
Des McGruder led the way with 20 points, four rebounds, and a block, while
Demi Page added 21 points in another strong performance.
McGruder credited the team's preparation for the success and looked ahead to Saturday's deciding game.
"It starts in practice. We push each other, and practice is supposed to be harder than our games. I think it's going to translate well to Saturday," McGruder said.
Head coach
Shaun Sanderson emphasized the team's identity and the importance of continuing that style of play.
"We've been able to run, and that's what Joliet is about. It leads to easy baskets, and that doesn't change," Sanderson said. "I keep saying Des is the best post player in the region, and when we establish that, we're pretty successful."
JJC now turns its attention to a crucial matchup against Triton College on Saturday at 1 p.m., where the Wolves will look to secure their spot in the playoffs.
