Women's Basketball moves to 2-0 with hard fought win at MVCC, 50-47

UTICA — The Herkimer vs. Mohawk Valley Community Women’s basketball game on Wednesday evening could be portrayed as two kids on a seesaw, trying to knock the other off.

 It was ultimately the Generals coming out on top 50-47 in a chess match-like victory over rival Mohawk Valley Community College.

 In the final minute of the game, Mohawk Valley’s Chelsea Dixon hit a three-pointer to tie the game at 44 apiece. The following possession, Herkimer freshman guard Amber Been (Bronx) hit a three-pointer to regain a three point lead with 40 seconds left.

 Following a Mohawk Valley missed shot, they fouled Been, who made 1-of-2 free throws. The following possession, Mohawk Valley’s Lyrik’ Jackson hit a three-pointer to shrink the lead to 48-47.

 They fouled Been once-more, who hit both free-throws. Mohawk Valley missed a potential game-tying three-pointer to end the game.

 “I knew (Mohawk Valley) would be athletic, and that they had a strong point guard in Jackson, so we worked on trying to keep the ball out of her hands,” said third year Herkimer Women's Basketball Head Coach Gabrielle Coffey. “I also knew about Jasmine Michaux (who they had) from two seasons ago, and was able to match my two best defenders up with their two best athletes.”

 Sophomore guard Lexi Debeatham (Shaker) led both teams with 20 points, and freshman center Alysia Roldan (East Greenbush) added nine.

 "We were in foul trouble all game and did not play our best basketball,” added Coffey. “Despite the adversity we faced throughout the game, we kept our composure especially down the stretch. MVCC is always a tough place to play and I was proud of the team for staying together and keeping each other up when things weren’t going well. We will learn from our mistakes and use the momentum from this win.”

 The Lady Generals next game is their home-opener on Saturday, November 9th at 1 p.m. versus Hudson Valley Community College.

By Sean Lynch

Twitter: @SeanLynch845