This year our TEAM believed in competing against higher level opponents during preseason play. WE had exhibition or scrimmage contests versus NCAA DII (Minot State University), NAIA (Dickinson State University), NJCAA DI (BSC and Dawson CC), and a 5-year Canadian institution(Brandon University). The goal was to learn more about our TEAM as far as weaknesses and strengths are concerned prior to beginning the regular season. All in all it seemed to be a fairly successful start as the Lumberjacks played well together at times, but also were given an opportunity to learn from mistakes. WE have only one returning player from last season which means 14 new faces will be asked to execute new roles within a new program.
The regular season kicks off this Friday, November 1st at "The Woodshed" against Canadian Mennonite University with tip set for 8pm. Even though it is the first game our TEAM has begun to build an identity based on playing extremely intense on both ends, sharing the basketball through trust, attempting to play fast at any given opportunity, and the TEAM seems to having fun during the process. Last year the coaching staff was limited in resources due to the bench not having much depth. This coming season we anticipate playing a variety of different lineups to maximize players strength, or opponent weaknesses. One key element is the fact our strongest players do not have to deliver extraordinary performances night in and night out to be successful, because several new additions have the ability to help win games when specific players seem to be struggling.
Transition Offense/Defense, Rebounding, and Assist-Turnover ratio are three primary basketball related statistics of concern for our TEAM this season. The game will be played up-tempo meaning WE need to get easy baskets offensively while forcing the opponent to play a half-court style in simple terms. All coaches emphasize rebounding but as a smaller TEAM every player must take responsibility over the battle on the boards if WE want to stand a chance against stronger teams. Finally this group must trust the pass as WE strive to make the right play (singles) vs. the hard play (home runs). Much of our emphasis is to play more like Peyton Manning and less like Brett Favre.
Communication, Uncommon Work Ethic, and Child-Like Enthusiasm to get better each day over a long year will be three areas associated with our attitude, and preparation which can not be charted through statistical analysis. Our guys enjoy the game of basketball and we should be so thankful to be allowed to play at the college level. This season will go by extremely fast and we only have so much time together as a group before sophomore's move on, new freshman are on campus, and we begin the process all over.
Let's all embrace the 2013-2014 basketball season!
Embrace the Success
Embrace the Adversity
Embrace the Experience
See everybody Friday night at 8pm.
Get Jacked UP,
Cory Fehringer
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Dickinson State Jamboree Considered Successful: Next Up, Brandon University
The Lumberjack basketball TEAM began the preseason competing at Dickinson State in a Jamboree. We played 3 games in 5 hours on our way to a 2-1 finish. It was nice to see the freshman in action and the sophomores embracing leadership roles. Overall we finished the Jamboree with wins against Dawson CC and Dickinson State before falling to Bismarck State in our final game. It would be easy to pass judgment after a few competitions, but the finish line is too far away for any true evaluation. At the end of the day I can say we had moments of tremendous teamwork, intensity, and execution but several concerns were validated along the way.
At this point in the preseason we expect our sophomores to carry the load of preparation and breeding confidence to the TEAM. Julian Vasquez was fairly solid on the offensive end with a good mixture of scoring and passing. Our organization and tempo was controlled by Billy Engel throughout the 1st two contests. Transfers Jake Arck and Kolbi Selby stepped in and looked comfortable in new uniforms as they executed TEAM strategies at an above average level. These four players will be asked to fast forward the learning curve through a better understanding of competition at the college level.
Coaches understand one of the primary keys to consistently winning is the wisdom of veteran leadership. Many coaches also understand in junior college this is not a luxury to be counted on, and young players must step in immediately to impact games. Several incoming freshman performed exceptionally in their first form of college competition. Xavier Cruz (PG), Jalyn Turner (G), Giberto Shojgreen (F), Same Robinson (F) and Travis Frye (G) had several moments where the coaching staff believes these players can be counted on as we move forward. We do have two key players who are continuing to rehab nagging injury. Julian Short (F) and Wesley Harrison (F) were both unavailable to play due to minor physical pain.
DSU's Jamboree provided great insight on the type of TEAM we can be, and the type of TEAM we can not be. Shot selection (our shot vs your shot) became an issue at times which is always a concern for young teams, of course rebounding without two of your interior players was difficult, and playing at a consistently fast tempo will be areas of improvement for our guys. The best part of the Jamboree is all negative comments to be made are problems with an obvious solution. It is up our to our coaching staff and the commitment of our players to be honest with each other as we strive to become better on a daily basis.
WE are in action again over the weekend with two exhibition games against Brandon University. Friday, October 18th we will tip off in Brandon at 8pm followed by a 6pm tip off on Saturday the 19th. This is another strong contest against an older opponent (5 year institution) who is good enough to expose our weaknesses during mistakes. Stay tuned for an update on Sunday to catch up on the news and details.
Take Care Lumberjack Supporters!
Get Jacked UP,
Cory Fehringer
At this point in the preseason we expect our sophomores to carry the load of preparation and breeding confidence to the TEAM. Julian Vasquez was fairly solid on the offensive end with a good mixture of scoring and passing. Our organization and tempo was controlled by Billy Engel throughout the 1st two contests. Transfers Jake Arck and Kolbi Selby stepped in and looked comfortable in new uniforms as they executed TEAM strategies at an above average level. These four players will be asked to fast forward the learning curve through a better understanding of competition at the college level.
Coaches understand one of the primary keys to consistently winning is the wisdom of veteran leadership. Many coaches also understand in junior college this is not a luxury to be counted on, and young players must step in immediately to impact games. Several incoming freshman performed exceptionally in their first form of college competition. Xavier Cruz (PG), Jalyn Turner (G), Giberto Shojgreen (F), Same Robinson (F) and Travis Frye (G) had several moments where the coaching staff believes these players can be counted on as we move forward. We do have two key players who are continuing to rehab nagging injury. Julian Short (F) and Wesley Harrison (F) were both unavailable to play due to minor physical pain.
DSU's Jamboree provided great insight on the type of TEAM we can be, and the type of TEAM we can not be. Shot selection (our shot vs your shot) became an issue at times which is always a concern for young teams, of course rebounding without two of your interior players was difficult, and playing at a consistently fast tempo will be areas of improvement for our guys. The best part of the Jamboree is all negative comments to be made are problems with an obvious solution. It is up our to our coaching staff and the commitment of our players to be honest with each other as we strive to become better on a daily basis.
WE are in action again over the weekend with two exhibition games against Brandon University. Friday, October 18th we will tip off in Brandon at 8pm followed by a 6pm tip off on Saturday the 19th. This is another strong contest against an older opponent (5 year institution) who is good enough to expose our weaknesses during mistakes. Stay tuned for an update on Sunday to catch up on the news and details.
Take Care Lumberjack Supporters!
Get Jacked UP,
Cory Fehringer
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
2013-2014 Season is Underway
On October 1st, 2013 the Lumberjack Basketball TEAM officially began the season with practice. Although this date is considered to be the 1st day a TEAM is legally able to improve as a unit, our TEAM began the process much earlier. The only difference was our TEAM began building the foundation without a basketball or a court. Our preseason was filled with new experiences for individuals who have for the better part traveled a long ways from home in order to compete for Dakota College. Of course there was some strength/conditioning and individual workouts, but the majority of our "work" consisted of developing a positive outlook toward accepting new roles with the emphasis being to create an environment based upon servant leadership.
TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES:
-Stain a deck on Lake Metigoshe
-Cut down 25 trees and split into firewood for Shepherd's Hill (Christian Youth Camp)
-Move pianos, washers, dryers, fire place for individuals in the community
-Host a Car Wash and Bake Sale
-Assist local Salon in transitioning store to new location
With that begin said, the coaching staff is extremely excited for the competitive season to kick-off. The 1st scrimmage will be held this Sunday, October 13th at Dickinson State University as we play 3 games (Dickinson State University, Bismarck State, and Dawson CC). This years group of student-athletes will be much more dynamic on both ends of the floor as the recruiting class is considered to be much more talented. Our size and speed have been improved along with the amount of offensive/defensive threats to be utilized in different schemes.
PLAYER OUTLOOK:
Billy Engel - Only returning player from last year's team. He is a gym rat who is always prepared and understands what steps must be taken to be successful. Engel's role will change in some ways as he is expected to be an extension of myself on the floor in practice, and games.
Julian Vasquez - Redshirted the previous year and is receiving attention from several NCAA D2 schools. Very talented offensive player with a knack for getting the TEAM involved. As competitive of player as I have coached, or played with in college.
Jake Arck - Transfer from Cyprus College (CA). Arck is a diligent worker, gym rat, and extremely athletic. Difficult to guard in transition and an exceptional rebounder on both ends.
Kolbi Selby - Transfer from Gillette CC (SD). Quick trigger from long-distance and an understanding of what it takes to be successful at the college level. Has proven to be the most consistent shooter up to this point.
Gilberto Shojgreen - Freshman from Miami, FL. Naturally talented at 6'7 with a 7' wing span. Will only get better with time in the gym as he polishes his game, and becomes more than just a guy who can dunk.
Sam Robinson - Freshman from Chicago, IL. TOUGH! Robinson will be asked to typically guard the other teams best offensive player. We believe Robinson's attitude is contagious and he is willing to accept any role for the betterment of the TEAM.
Xavier Cruz, Jalyn Turner, Patrick Robinson and Travis Frye are all freshman guards who will be expected to contribute. Each player has a unique skill set to be of value to the TEAM. They are working together daily to improve and understand our TEAM philosophy.
Julian Short, Wesley Harrison and Justin Musgrave will work together to improve our protection of the paint, defending bigger players and working to win the rebounding battle. Once again each player brings a different strength to the table and will be asked to impact games in different ways.
WE look forward to competing with your support. Stay tuned for more updates following the scrimmage at Dickinson State University. Let's have a great 2013-2014 basketball season.
Get JACKED UP,
Cory Fehringer
Head Coach
Lumberjack Hoops
TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES:
-Stain a deck on Lake Metigoshe
-Cut down 25 trees and split into firewood for Shepherd's Hill (Christian Youth Camp)
-Move pianos, washers, dryers, fire place for individuals in the community
-Host a Car Wash and Bake Sale
-Assist local Salon in transitioning store to new location
With that begin said, the coaching staff is extremely excited for the competitive season to kick-off. The 1st scrimmage will be held this Sunday, October 13th at Dickinson State University as we play 3 games (Dickinson State University, Bismarck State, and Dawson CC). This years group of student-athletes will be much more dynamic on both ends of the floor as the recruiting class is considered to be much more talented. Our size and speed have been improved along with the amount of offensive/defensive threats to be utilized in different schemes.
PLAYER OUTLOOK:
Billy Engel - Only returning player from last year's team. He is a gym rat who is always prepared and understands what steps must be taken to be successful. Engel's role will change in some ways as he is expected to be an extension of myself on the floor in practice, and games.
Julian Vasquez - Redshirted the previous year and is receiving attention from several NCAA D2 schools. Very talented offensive player with a knack for getting the TEAM involved. As competitive of player as I have coached, or played with in college.
Jake Arck - Transfer from Cyprus College (CA). Arck is a diligent worker, gym rat, and extremely athletic. Difficult to guard in transition and an exceptional rebounder on both ends.
Kolbi Selby - Transfer from Gillette CC (SD). Quick trigger from long-distance and an understanding of what it takes to be successful at the college level. Has proven to be the most consistent shooter up to this point.
Gilberto Shojgreen - Freshman from Miami, FL. Naturally talented at 6'7 with a 7' wing span. Will only get better with time in the gym as he polishes his game, and becomes more than just a guy who can dunk.
Sam Robinson - Freshman from Chicago, IL. TOUGH! Robinson will be asked to typically guard the other teams best offensive player. We believe Robinson's attitude is contagious and he is willing to accept any role for the betterment of the TEAM.
Xavier Cruz, Jalyn Turner, Patrick Robinson and Travis Frye are all freshman guards who will be expected to contribute. Each player has a unique skill set to be of value to the TEAM. They are working together daily to improve and understand our TEAM philosophy.
Julian Short, Wesley Harrison and Justin Musgrave will work together to improve our protection of the paint, defending bigger players and working to win the rebounding battle. Once again each player brings a different strength to the table and will be asked to impact games in different ways.
WE look forward to competing with your support. Stay tuned for more updates following the scrimmage at Dickinson State University. Let's have a great 2013-2014 basketball season.
Get JACKED UP,
Cory Fehringer
Head Coach
Lumberjack Hoops
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
1st Round of Region Tournament
Lumberjack supporters. I apologize for taking time to catch up on our blog. WE have been extremely busy with recruiting, scouting/preparing for upcoming games, as well as handling a difficult situation with an injured player who is a long ways away from home.
All year long as a TEAM each game was valued as the most important game of the year. WE understood the only game we had control over was the one in front of us. It is time to throw all cliche's out the window because the most exciting time of the year in college basketball is upon us.
WIN or GO HOME.
Tonight we will tip-off against UTTC for the third time this season. The game will be play at UTTC in Bismarck beginning at 7pm.
For those supporters who follow our program closely, we are on a 3-game skid with losses to UTTC, Lake Region State College, and finished the year against Williston State College. Obviously this is not the type of run any team would like to have, but I am confident our TEAM will continue to compete as it has all year long. As many sports fanatics know anything can happen when it becomes a one game season.
There is no doubt a team must have talent, chemistry, and a desire to win in order to be successful in a tournament setting. With that being said, probably the most underrated aspect of post-season play is a teams overall health. At this point the Lumberjacks are struggling in this department as Jayden McMillin continues to battle back and the latest loss of Kristoff Walker.
Kristoff Walker suffered a severe leg fracture of his tibia and fibula. He is recovering in Grand Forks at this moment but will be returning home to New Orleans in the near future. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. In moments like this WE begin to learn how precious our time can be, and what is truly important. Being great teammates, valuing the opportunity to play, and embracing the moment for good and bad are all aspects of college athletics which have gained a new perspective for our young men.
This TEAM has stuck together through ups and downs throughout the year. I have no doubt in my mind we will play as hard as we have ever played tonight. Regardless of the outcome I believe our student-athletes strive to be the best basketball players they can be, as well as the best teammates a coach could ask for.
Embrace the Moment.
Let's Get JACKED UP.
Coach Fehringer
All year long as a TEAM each game was valued as the most important game of the year. WE understood the only game we had control over was the one in front of us. It is time to throw all cliche's out the window because the most exciting time of the year in college basketball is upon us.
WIN or GO HOME.
Tonight we will tip-off against UTTC for the third time this season. The game will be play at UTTC in Bismarck beginning at 7pm.
For those supporters who follow our program closely, we are on a 3-game skid with losses to UTTC, Lake Region State College, and finished the year against Williston State College. Obviously this is not the type of run any team would like to have, but I am confident our TEAM will continue to compete as it has all year long. As many sports fanatics know anything can happen when it becomes a one game season.
There is no doubt a team must have talent, chemistry, and a desire to win in order to be successful in a tournament setting. With that being said, probably the most underrated aspect of post-season play is a teams overall health. At this point the Lumberjacks are struggling in this department as Jayden McMillin continues to battle back and the latest loss of Kristoff Walker.
Kristoff Walker suffered a severe leg fracture of his tibia and fibula. He is recovering in Grand Forks at this moment but will be returning home to New Orleans in the near future. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. In moments like this WE begin to learn how precious our time can be, and what is truly important. Being great teammates, valuing the opportunity to play, and embracing the moment for good and bad are all aspects of college athletics which have gained a new perspective for our young men.
This TEAM has stuck together through ups and downs throughout the year. I have no doubt in my mind we will play as hard as we have ever played tonight. Regardless of the outcome I believe our student-athletes strive to be the best basketball players they can be, as well as the best teammates a coach could ask for.
Embrace the Moment.
Let's Get JACKED UP.
Coach Fehringer
Sunday, February 17, 2013
TEAM Battles Back From 16 Down: Defeat Concordia
How Will We Finish?
This is a question without an answer at this point, but if today was any indication of how we will respond to adversity then I'd say WE REFUSE to give up. Coming out of half-time against Concordia JV, OUR TEAM surrendered a 10-0 run to put us 14 down. Eventually the lead would even slip to 16 points in the second half until WE finally stopped playing gimmicks and just said "full court man to man" with 10 minutes to go. WE rotated guards in to sustain pressure, as a TEAM we rebounded the ball aggressively, and guy after guy came up with big plays. When it was all said and done, OUR JACKS won the game with a final score of 85-81 against a very sound Concordia team.
Yesterday's loss was a tough pill to swallow because earlier in the year we had defeated Jamestown JV. Today did not look like the outcome was going to be positive midway through the second half, and to be honest I was not sure what our guys had left. Third game in four days with a conference game tomorrow as well. The mood was just right to roll over and allow Concordia JV to finish what they had started in the second half... Then it happened... Tyler Storseth began to knock down deep 3's giving our TEAM excitement, Marquis Thomas grabbed rebound put backs, Billy Engel nailed key jump shots, Kristoff Walker penetrated and distributed the ball to Roybell Baez, Ben Veith, and DaShamone McCarty.
With :50 seconds to play the defense came up with a big stop as the game was tied 81-81, from there WE would call timeout and decide what way to go with a crucial possession. The ball was given to Walker, Thomas set a great screen, and Walker delivered with a game winning lay-up as he was fouled along the way give US a 3-point lead. Although Walker sealed the deal this was a collaborative effort as once again all players clocked in 10 plus minutes, and nobody played 30 or more minutes. Credit goes out to our guys desire to not allow a bad situation to dictate their attitudes and efforts.
Statistical Highlights:
Kristoff Walker - 24 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, game-winning basket
"Did a good job of being aggressive on both ends, distributed the ball on key plays, and kept the pressure up on ball handlers".
Tyler Storseth - 17 points, 4/4 from 3FG
"Truly changed the game with clutch shooting. Whenever Tyler plays well we seem to play with more energy and enthusiasm".
Billy Engel - 11 points, 3 assists
"Has been faced with a tough stretch recently, but Billy is a competitor. He has played the most minutes this year and it was good to see Billy gain confidence again today".
Just as today was our biggest game of the year. Tomorrow is another big test because UTTC will be our 1st opponent to open up regional play. We tip at 8pm in Bismarck.
Let's Get Jacked UP,
Coach Fehringer
This is a question without an answer at this point, but if today was any indication of how we will respond to adversity then I'd say WE REFUSE to give up. Coming out of half-time against Concordia JV, OUR TEAM surrendered a 10-0 run to put us 14 down. Eventually the lead would even slip to 16 points in the second half until WE finally stopped playing gimmicks and just said "full court man to man" with 10 minutes to go. WE rotated guards in to sustain pressure, as a TEAM we rebounded the ball aggressively, and guy after guy came up with big plays. When it was all said and done, OUR JACKS won the game with a final score of 85-81 against a very sound Concordia team.
Yesterday's loss was a tough pill to swallow because earlier in the year we had defeated Jamestown JV. Today did not look like the outcome was going to be positive midway through the second half, and to be honest I was not sure what our guys had left. Third game in four days with a conference game tomorrow as well. The mood was just right to roll over and allow Concordia JV to finish what they had started in the second half... Then it happened... Tyler Storseth began to knock down deep 3's giving our TEAM excitement, Marquis Thomas grabbed rebound put backs, Billy Engel nailed key jump shots, Kristoff Walker penetrated and distributed the ball to Roybell Baez, Ben Veith, and DaShamone McCarty.
With :50 seconds to play the defense came up with a big stop as the game was tied 81-81, from there WE would call timeout and decide what way to go with a crucial possession. The ball was given to Walker, Thomas set a great screen, and Walker delivered with a game winning lay-up as he was fouled along the way give US a 3-point lead. Although Walker sealed the deal this was a collaborative effort as once again all players clocked in 10 plus minutes, and nobody played 30 or more minutes. Credit goes out to our guys desire to not allow a bad situation to dictate their attitudes and efforts.
Statistical Highlights:
Kristoff Walker - 24 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds, game-winning basket
"Did a good job of being aggressive on both ends, distributed the ball on key plays, and kept the pressure up on ball handlers".
Tyler Storseth - 17 points, 4/4 from 3FG
"Truly changed the game with clutch shooting. Whenever Tyler plays well we seem to play with more energy and enthusiasm".
Billy Engel - 11 points, 3 assists
"Has been faced with a tough stretch recently, but Billy is a competitor. He has played the most minutes this year and it was good to see Billy gain confidence again today".
Just as today was our biggest game of the year. Tomorrow is another big test because UTTC will be our 1st opponent to open up regional play. We tip at 8pm in Bismarck.
Let's Get Jacked UP,
Coach Fehringer
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Final Stretch: How Will WE Respond?
When the month of February is upon a college basketball TEAM and the supporters who follow, it is difficult to recall what happened over the course of the year. Whether a TEAM has early success or struggled to run an offense. In college hoops it's what you do in February and March that ultimately determines the level of your success or failure. The NCAA tournament will have multiple 20+ win teams fall in the 1st/2nd round, and the common phrase will be "upset". Other teams may squeak their way into the NCAA tournament or NIT, and be declared "Cinderella" story's all because they finished the season with a couple of wins. How WE finish is much more important than where WE are at, or where WE have been.
Currently the Jacks TEAM is facing another tough stretch of games. 5 games in 7 days, with 3 of the 5 games coming against conference opponents. Thursday night OUR TEAM suffered a difficult loss to BSC by a score of 86-105. The score was not the frustrating part for me or the guys, but rather due to the fact WE did not make BSC earn the win. WE had a lack of discipline rebounding the basketball, lack of focus to identify personnel's strengths for BSC, and lack of competitive desire in front of a great crowd. Everyone knew it was a big game and WE must learn to be mentally/physically tougher when a great opportunity presents itself.
Today WE competed against a very scrappy and well-balanced Jamestown College JV team. WE lost 74-64 after having the lead at half. Just before the game began, WE received notice Jayden McMillin would not be available because of a possible concussion. This group has had to face tremendous opposition from injury issues, eligibility, and a seemingly NBA schedule at times. On a positive note WE did a much better job of defensively rebounding, oddly enough WE won every statistical category except Free Throw's, and had 38 points off the bench. With a difficult road ahead it was crucial we balance out our minutes on the floor. All 10 players accumulated more than 10 minutes of playing time, and nobody cracked over 30 minutes.
Tomorrow the road continues as we compete against another very good Concordia JV team. They have "upset" several Junior College teams already and WE will not take them lightly. OUR TEAM will continue to play balanced minutes as every player will have a chance to improve because this weekend is a non-conference match-up with the most important part of our season ahead of us.
HOW WILL WE FINISH? Several people may believe the writing is on the wall for this group, but I am crazy enough to think "Cinderella" teams don't just pop-up in the NCAA tournament.
Stay tuned for Lumberjack updates.
Get Jacked UP,
Coach Fehringer
Currently the Jacks TEAM is facing another tough stretch of games. 5 games in 7 days, with 3 of the 5 games coming against conference opponents. Thursday night OUR TEAM suffered a difficult loss to BSC by a score of 86-105. The score was not the frustrating part for me or the guys, but rather due to the fact WE did not make BSC earn the win. WE had a lack of discipline rebounding the basketball, lack of focus to identify personnel's strengths for BSC, and lack of competitive desire in front of a great crowd. Everyone knew it was a big game and WE must learn to be mentally/physically tougher when a great opportunity presents itself.
Today WE competed against a very scrappy and well-balanced Jamestown College JV team. WE lost 74-64 after having the lead at half. Just before the game began, WE received notice Jayden McMillin would not be available because of a possible concussion. This group has had to face tremendous opposition from injury issues, eligibility, and a seemingly NBA schedule at times. On a positive note WE did a much better job of defensively rebounding, oddly enough WE won every statistical category except Free Throw's, and had 38 points off the bench. With a difficult road ahead it was crucial we balance out our minutes on the floor. All 10 players accumulated more than 10 minutes of playing time, and nobody cracked over 30 minutes.
Tomorrow the road continues as we compete against another very good Concordia JV team. They have "upset" several Junior College teams already and WE will not take them lightly. OUR TEAM will continue to play balanced minutes as every player will have a chance to improve because this weekend is a non-conference match-up with the most important part of our season ahead of us.
HOW WILL WE FINISH? Several people may believe the writing is on the wall for this group, but I am crazy enough to think "Cinderella" teams don't just pop-up in the NCAA tournament.
Stay tuned for Lumberjack updates.
Get Jacked UP,
Coach Fehringer
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Jacks Lose by 12 at WSC
Once again our Lumberjacks hit the road to take on a very tough Williston State College (20-7). At the end of the first half the Tetons held a 7-point lead by hitting a buzzer beater. The second half would be much of the same as we were outscored by 5-points ultimately resulting in a 71-59 loss. Defensively our TEAM did a nice job of executing the game plan by slowing up the ball in transition, and limiting second possessions against a very skilled/athletic WSC team. When it was all said and done our TEAM simply did not finish opportunities around the rim, or knock down open shots when we had good looks from good shooters. Many would probably agree a 12-point loss at Williston would be classified as a "good try", but in my opinion the Tetons did not get our best punch.
If there is one thing to say about our guys, it is the fact we have been dealt with much adversity throughout the year due to a tough schedule and injuries. Our game against WSC was our 3rd game in four days, arguably against our most difficult opponent and once again our TEAM was one player short as Billy Engel sat out with a rib injury. WE competed at a high-level in many stretches, but our focus, confidence and energy was not consistent enough to take down a strong opponent in their gym. After the game WE discussed what "winning" on a nightly basis required.
Play Hard:
20-25 minutes = LOSS
25-30 minutes = Probable LOSS
30-35 minutes = Might WIN
35-40 minutes = Great Chance to WIN
Statistical Highlights:
Jayden McMillin - 18 points, 6 rebounds
"We needed to do a better job of delivering Jayden the ball in scoring position as he was extremely effective and efficient with his touches."
Kristoff Walker - 14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals
Next week we have a huge opportunity to really push ourselves in the right direction leading into Regional Tournament play. Bismarck State visits "The Woodshed" on Thursday evening with tip-ff set for 8pm. WE will say a big "Thank You" to Terry Charnholm for everything he has done to help Dakota College. It will also be "Think Pink" night in support for Coaches vs Cancer.
Come support your Lumberjacks as we compete to take down the Mystics.
Let's Get Jacked UP,
Coach Fehringer
If there is one thing to say about our guys, it is the fact we have been dealt with much adversity throughout the year due to a tough schedule and injuries. Our game against WSC was our 3rd game in four days, arguably against our most difficult opponent and once again our TEAM was one player short as Billy Engel sat out with a rib injury. WE competed at a high-level in many stretches, but our focus, confidence and energy was not consistent enough to take down a strong opponent in their gym. After the game WE discussed what "winning" on a nightly basis required.
Play Hard:
20-25 minutes = LOSS
25-30 minutes = Probable LOSS
30-35 minutes = Might WIN
35-40 minutes = Great Chance to WIN
Statistical Highlights:
Jayden McMillin - 18 points, 6 rebounds
"We needed to do a better job of delivering Jayden the ball in scoring position as he was extremely effective and efficient with his touches."
Kristoff Walker - 14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals
Next week we have a huge opportunity to really push ourselves in the right direction leading into Regional Tournament play. Bismarck State visits "The Woodshed" on Thursday evening with tip-ff set for 8pm. WE will say a big "Thank You" to Terry Charnholm for everything he has done to help Dakota College. It will also be "Think Pink" night in support for Coaches vs Cancer.
Come support your Lumberjacks as we compete to take down the Mystics.
Let's Get Jacked UP,
Coach Fehringer
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