Cyclones defeat No. 18 Lake Land in Triton tourney

Cyclones defeat No. 18 Lake Land in Triton tourney

The Cyclones narrowly edged out another nationally ranked team while also adding two more victories to their record Nov. 9 and 10 at the Dan Hull Memorial Classic tournament at Triton College.

First, the Cyclones faced Highland Community College, earning a 79-69 victory. After another slow start, going down 10-8 after the first quarter, the Cyclones put up 28 points in the second quarter to go ahead 38-28 at the half. The 10-point spread remained the rest of the game. Three Cyclones posted double-doubles. Ashley Hunter led with 20 points and 13 rebounds. Julia Ruzevich added 18 points, but led with 18 rebounds, and Kate Ruzevich chipped in 15 points, 11 rebounds. Hennessey Handy had 15 points and eight rebounds.

For the second time this season, the Cyclones have knocked down a nationally ranked team. Lake Land College (No. 18) was the latest victim as Moraine Valley edged them out 76-74 in the final seconds of the game. In this start, the Cyclones jumped out with energy, taking off 11-4 midway through the first quarter. Moraine Valley wasn't allowed to run away with the game, however, as they only had a 39-38 lead at halftime. The second half saw the lead change hands often, making it anyone's game. It only came down to the last play with the score tied at 74. Destiny Thames (eight points, seven rebounds) was fouled after grabbing an offensive rebound. She sunk both free throws with five seconds left. The Loggers attempted a last resort three-point shot that rolled off the rim leaving the Cyclones victorious. For the second consecutive game, Hunter led the way with 23 points (five three-pointers). Julia Ruzevich added 19 points, five rebounds and six assists. Collectively, the team went 14-for-26 from the three-point line (53 percent).