By Mitch Ferreira

Briercrest lost the battle in the paint in what was a narrow defeat to the visiting Red Deer Queens, 68-59.

Coming out of the gate, the Clippers played a tight first quarter. The Queens lost starting player Desirae Paterson to an ankle injury early on, a significant loss to the rookie-laden visitors. In the second quarter, Briercrest exploded on to a 16-0 run that was highlighted by three baskets in a row from outside the arc from Klassen and Meyer. Throughout the game, Briercrest played well from beyond the arc, shooting 40.9%. At the end of the half Briercrest led 34-20. Yet the second half proved difficult for Briercrest, being outscored 48-25. Through the third the game remained close, with home side holding a three-point lead. The fourth quarter saw the Queens jump to a nine-point lead after a 12-0 run to start the quarter. Unfortunately for Briercrest, some clutch threes were not enough to take back the game. The Clippers found it difficult to penetrate the key, proving to be the game changer as they were held to the perimeter. Rookie Hannah Klassen had a strong effort, shooting well from the outside, hitting five three-pointers and 19 points total.

Players of the game were Sarah Williamson for the Queens (14 points, 11 rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks) and Claire Richardson for the Clippers, with the double-double (12 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, three steals and one block).

Game notes: Both teams shot the ball 60 times, with Briercrest hitting 22 shots (36.7%) and Red Deer hitting 25 for a percentage of 41.7%. Turnovers were 35-31 for the Clippers, while the Queens out-rebounded 39-34. The Queens led in blocks three to two and in assists, 14-13. Team leaders for Briercrest were Hannah Klassen (19 points), Claire Richardson (12 rebounds, four assists, three steals, one block), Brittany Larson (one block) and Tracy Frimpong (three steals).

Briercrest’s hosts Red Deer again tomorrow at 1:00pm at the Margaret P. Reimer Memorial Gymnasium in Caronport. If you cannot make it to the game be sure to follow online at SportsCanada.tv or like Briercrest Basketball on Facebook.