Lady Vikes Fumble First Half Lead

Looking to avoid a 3 game losing streak, the Lady Vikes made their longest trip of the season down to Ontario, OR to face off versus the Treasure Valley Chukars on Saturday February 10th. 

Needing a hot start, BBCC came out firing on all cylinders shooting 50% from the floor including knocking down both attempts from beyond the arc. Not only was the offense operating at a high level, but the defense managed to hold TVCC to 25% shooting giving BBCC a 19-12 lead after the first quarter. 

After winning the first quarter, BBCC hoped to keep it rolling and did just that. The Lady Vikes continued to shoot the ball well while playing lights out defense. Shooting 54% from the floor while holding Treasure Valley to 38% was a recipe for success giving Big Bend a ten point lead going into half time. Head Coach Preston Wilks had this to say regarding the quality start.

"Another strong start on the road, had us thinking that today was the day. The 2nd quarter ended with us up by 10 points and we were upbeat and excited in the locker room at halftime. The ladies even talked about making sure we came out strong to start the 3rd quarter."

After arguably their best half of the season, the Lady Vikes hoped to finish the job to get back in the winning column. Unfortunately, the third quarter did not favor BBCC. A complete flip flop from the first quarter had the Lady Vikes shooting 25% while Treasure Valley managed to shoot 50% from the floor and erasing the 10 point lead they had built. Being outscored 24-8 in the third quarter had BBCC playing from behind going into the final frame. 

Entering the final ten minutes down 6, Big Bend needed to get back to their first half form. The Lady Vikes put together a solid fourth quarter shooting 50% from the floor while holding TVCC to 33% shooting. A similar quarter to the second gave BBCC hope but could not seal the deal dropping their third straight game with a final score of 65-61. Head Coach Preston Wilks had this to say regarding the tough second half.

"Treasure Valley took the momentum and rode it to a huge quarter. We trailed from that point on, but we made a great run down the stretch and took back momentum, and got the game down to one point. On a critical defensive possession, we had the shot clock down to 3 seconds, and their point guard hit her 1st made 3 pointer of the year, which was huge for them. In spite of that, we didn't blink an eye and scraped our way back. We had the final possession of the game and were down just 2 points, but came up short on the play."

In a tight playoff race, every game is critical. After fumbling a ten point lead, the Lady Vikes put themselves in a tough spot, but remain optimistic regarding their situation.

"We now find ourselves fighting for our playoff hopes, needing to get wins against Blue Mountain and Yakima. We will get ourselves as ready as possible for the trip to Blue Mountain and see what happens, we're still optimistic and upbeat as ever" said Wilks.

BBCC has a bye this upcoming Wednesday allowing for extra rest prior to their road trip down to Pendleton, OR to face off versus the Blue Mountain Community College Timberwolves. 

As always, keep up with the Lady Vikings on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, as well as through the NWACSports Network's livestream video platform, where available.