Michigan Tech forward Janie Tormanen attempts a layup during a game last season against Ferris State at the SDC Gym in Houghton. (David Archambeau/For the Gazette)
Michigan Tech Women’s Basketball Kicks Off Season with Strong Performances
HOUGHTON — The Michigan Tech Huskies women’s basketball team has started the season on a high note, securing victories against Lewis and Upper Iowa with scores of 68-55 and 70-30, respectively, during the D2 Midwest Region Tip-Off. Despite this strong start, Head Coach Sam Clayton expressed areas for improvement.
Defensive Emphasis
Coach Clayton emphasized the team’s defensive performance as a point of pride. “Feels good. I would much prefer to be 2-0 than any alternative,” she remarked. “I thought we came out with defensive urgency. In all preseason, that’s been our point of emphasis, focusing on the defensive side, outworking opponents, and maintaining our grit.” While the team managed to hold their opponents to significantly low scores, Clayton acknowledged room for growth, mentioning lapses such as straight-line drives by opponents.
Key Players Shine
One standout performance came from senior guard Soraya Timms, who, after missing two seasons due to injury, scored 17 points in her first game back. Clayton was particularly proud, saying, “Honestly, I don’t even know if I can describe what that felt like for me… She’s been through so much the past two years… I was excited for her to be able to play.” Timms’ return has added much-needed depth to the team’s scoring options.
Strength in Numbers
The Huskies have showcased a broader scoring depth compared to the previous season. With several players capable of contributing significant points on any given night, Coach Clayton noted, “I think everyone is excited for this year, because we do have five, six, seven players that can be 15-plus point scorers any given night.” This shift alleviates pressure from individual players to deliver extraordinary performances consistently, allowing for more fluid offensive movements.
Upcoming Challenges
As they prepare for their next opponents, the Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs (1-1) and the St. Cloud State Huskies (2-0), Coach Clayton recognized similar challenges both teams present. “They’re long, athletic, and defensively sound,” she said. “We have to get them moving and talking on defense… if we want to get good shots.” The Wolverines will face Minnesota-Duluth on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. and will take on St. Cloud State the following day at the same time.
Scouting Report
Opponent Insights
The Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs are led by sophomore shooting guard Claire Bjorge, who averages 14.0 points per game, while senior Myra Moorjani contributes an average of 9.5 points. In comparison, St. Cloud State’s offense is spearheaded by senior Jada Eggebrecht with 17.5 points per game, alongside junior Alana Zarneke’s 15.5 points.
Conclusion
With the Huskies poised for a competitive season ahead, their focus on both defensive resilience and offensive versatility will be crucial as they navigate the challenges presented by upcoming opponents.
