The Cyclones (16-15) ended their season Feb. 26 in a semifinal matchup with Black Hawk College (22-9). Although the final 74-55 score told one story, it was a much closer game.
Throughout the first half, the Cyclones were consistent, pressed the Braves and didn't let them run away at any point. At halftime, the Cyclones were only down 34-31. It was the third quarter where the Braves went on a few runs that hurt the Cyclones in the end.
The accumulation of 30 fouls to the Braves' 12 also didn't help the cause. Even though Moraine Valley went 13-for-19 from the free-throw line, the Braves had more opportunities, going 23-for-39. Briana Sanchez, the Cyclones' leading rebounder, had three fouls in the first quarter alone as did one of the team's top scorers, Kirsten Kamholz.
Throughout the third quarter, the Cyclones were able to answer with a few buckets to stay within reach, but the Braves went on a 10-2 run and forced Cyclone turnovers. Moraine Valley was able to keep the fourth frame closer, scoring 12 points to the Braves' 17, but it wasn't enough to surpass the deficit.
Katchie Savic finished with 19 points, 10 of those in the second half, seven assists and five steals. Bashirah Muhammad added 11 points and four rebounds while Maggie Manthey contributed nine rebounds.