Wednesday, December 31, 2003
The Irish remain unbeaten with a 53-27 victory over Canfield.
By RYAN JONES
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
CANFIELD -- Defense was the name of the game for the Ursuline High girls basketball team.
Heavy ball pressure combined with a strong third quarter allowed Ursuline to cruise to a 53-27 triumph Saturday over non-conference opponent Canfield.
Canfield (5-2) managed just 34 percent shooting (12-of-34) for the game as the Irish contested almost every shot. In addition, the Cardinals attempted only four free throws. Ursuline (7-0) forced numerous turnovers throughout the game that led to easy baskets on the other end.
"Ball pressure is the staple of our defense; it triggers everything," Ursuline coach Sean Durkin said. "We try to put Cierra Bennett on the point guard if possible, because the pressure she creates can really be a game changer for us."
Off and running
Bennett's three-point play following a steal increased the Ursuline lead to 15-7 with two minutes remaining in the first period. The period also featured three no-look assists from Michigan State recruit Courtney Davidson, who totaled seven assists to go with 11 points.
"She [Davidson] is very unselfish, and at the same time still has the ability to take over," Durkin said. "We have become much better around her this year making us more dangerous than before."
Both teams cooled off from the field significantly in the second frame; only 12 points were scored between both teams. Ursuline took a 25-13 lead into the break.
"Ursuline, what a gifted team," Canfield coach Pat Pavlansky said. "They're fun to watch. I just wish I didn't have to watch them tonight."
The Irish erupted out of halftime with a huge third quarter, outscoring Canfield 19-4. They closed the frame with a 10-0 run, which was fueled by three consecutive turnovers by Canfield on the offensive end.
"At halftime we talked about how stagnant the second quarter was. We wanted to concentrate on the first four minutes of the third quarter by coming out and extending our lead," Durkin said.
Ten of sophomore Tyra Grant's team-leading 17 points came in the second half. Grant added a team-high eight rebounds. Vanessa Dickson added nine markers and half a dozen rebounds, as well.
Canfield was led by Kerrie Haurin with eight points. Durkin was excited about the remainder of the Ursuline season saying, "We have nine important days coming up to get better. We hope to focus on a few areas that we need improvement on before we return to action."