Generals defeat Lakers 53-50 in season debut

Herkimer, NY – There were some opening-night jitters, but the new-look Lady Generals settled their nerves and showed that they are a team worth watching. The Herkimer quintet came back from a deficit and defeated the Finger Lakes Five 53-50 before a good crowd on Thursday evening.

The game was not only the first college game for several Herkimer players; it was also the team's first outing with new Head Coach Brad Gouger in charge. The evening turned out to be a fine inaugural for all concerned.

Coach Gouger's starting five included three freshmen, one player from last year's squad, and one player who had been away from the college game for three seasons.

Photo: Victoria Seabrooks winning the opening jump ball

The Lakers played a strong first half, and built a 22-14 lead, but the Generals kept their composure and started coming back. By halftime the home side trailed by just six, at 30-24.

Newcomer Whitney Brown deserves great credit for her debut on the Herkimer hardwood. Brown was a standout lacrosse player for Herkimer last spring but did not play hoops last winter. Quickly Brown showed that her basketball prowess equals her lacrosse talents.

Several other newcomers showed a lot of promise in the season opener. Shileeka Williams soon seemed right at home on the college court. Center Victoria Seabrooks had some strong moments in the lane. Samantha Randio earned a starting spot.

Herkimer's second half was far different from the first. Allie Webb's breakaway closed the scoring gap to 36-34. A layup by Williams tied the game. Then a three by Williams put Herkimer ahead.

Photo: Shileeka Williams attacking

The game stayed very close, and the Lakers regained the lead 48-47. The game was tied at 50-50. Then a field goal by Whitney Brown and a free throw by Williams secured the 53-50 win.

The Generals will be back in action on their home court next Tuesday, November 6. They will host the Ithaca College JV in a 7:00 p.m. contest.

Nick Scribe, website writer

Herkimer scoring: Allie Webb 3, Randio 4, Williams 7, W. Brown 26, Aniya Webb 2, Seabrooks 6, Travis 5 – Total 53