By Greg Gielczyk
LocalSportsJournal.com
LUDINGTON — In a low scoring, tight ball game Monday night, the Ludington girls basketball team pulled out a thrilling 37-32 non-conference win Monday night over visiting Traverse City West.
It was Ludington’s sixth straight win.
The Orioles, coming off an impressive win over archrival Manistee last Friday, broke out of the gate with an 11-1 run that had the Titans rattled. Ludington had a 13-4 lead to start the second quarter.
But the Orioles’ offense stalled and managed just four points in the second period, while the Titans scored eight and cut the Ludington lead to five, 17-12, at the half.
“When you come out with the energy that we came out with in the first quarter, I hate to say this, but that’s going to be hard to maintain,” said Ludington coach Warren Stowe.
Poor shooting percentage and turnovers, forced or otherwise, opened the door for the Titans in the third quarter. The Titans had a 13-7 advantage in the third quarter and a 25-24 lead.
It was gut check time for the Orioles in the fourth and they responded.
“Losing that lead going into the fourth, having to have a little moxie and a little bit of grit when we needed it, we got really good offensive possessions,” Stowe said.
Jordyn Anderson’s quick three-point play pushed the Orioles back in front, 27-25.
The Orioles held the lead the rest of the game, although the outcome was always in doubt.
“I was really pleased with how they responded,” said Stowe. “We had a lot of girls that stepped up. One of our best traits is our effort and our hard work. And our willingness to work. They deserve to win when they step on the court because of their effort.”
Jennah Skiba led all scorers with 10 points for the Orioles, including six in the first quarter. Karli Mesyar and Elianna Jeruzal each added nine and Anderson eight.
Ludington improved to 12-6 overall. The Orioles resume West Michigan Conference Lakes Division action hosting Muskegon Orchard View on Senior Night on Thursday.
