By JOSH VESHIA
Staff Writer
Last Wednesday, February 11th, the Golden Knights Women and Men’s basketball teams took on the Pace Setters in a home double-header. Both teams emerged victorious and two major accomplishments were gathered on the Women’s side.
The Golden Knights were led with 16 points by Sophomore Staci Barrett followed by 12 points from both Mariah Lesure (Senior) and Keyontae Williams (Junior). Despite Pace Sophomore Kristen Dodge contributing 17 points mostly from in the paint, the Golden Knights played sound defense which allowed for them to build upon their lead and keep it, ultimately winning the game 61-47.
Senior Gabie Polce added 6 points, 2 of which gave her an accomplishment worthy of a standing ovation from her teammates on the bench. On a fast break jumper from the corner, Polce was able to surpass 1,000 career points and join only 23 others in the history of the program.
“I actually didn’t realize how close I was”, she said following the victory. “I knew I was coming up on it and I had a big game against New Haven which must have brought me right there”, referring to her 21-point outbreak against the Chargers the previous game. “It was special to be able to do it at home in front of the people who have been there for me for all 4 years.”
Polce also mentioned how special it was to share her outstanding accomplishment with her coach who was able to gain an accomplishment of her own. With the victory, Coach Karen Haag earned her 300th career Division II victory making for a meaningful night all-around. As playoff uncertainty lingers, bright spots for both Polce and Haag keep the team playing motivated basketball.
The Men’s team won 83-54 behind 27 points from Freshman Jack Jones, who made 9 of his 10 shots including a perfect 7 of 7 from beyond the three-point line. Fellow Australian big man Julian Lipinski added 10 points while Freshman Jamaal Greenwood added 9, going 3 for 3 from behind the three-point line.
Pace had two players score 20 but the Golden Knights did not allow any other players to be a factor, playing tough defense the entire game. Contribution from several players in the scoring column from excellent ball movement all-round made for a solid victory and enjoyable game for a packed home crowd in Daniel P. Nolan Gymnasium.
With only a few games remaining, both teams hope to continue to play well and carry momentum into the off-season.
For Senior Gabie Polce, a brief moment in the spotlight sums up what was without question a marvelous career in the Golden Knights uniform and reminds the newest coach in the 300 win club what will be missed next season.
