Bloomfield Marian vs. Southfield Lathrup: Game Summary

Tuesday, March 10 at 5:30pm

Southfield High School

The regional semi-final between Southfield Lathrup and the defending state champions Bloomfield Marian was everything basketball fans anticipated it would be. From the opening tip, these state power teams went at each other in the most literal meaning. Both teams forced turnovers, quick shots and bad passes. At the end of the first quarter, it was clear that neither team was going to go down without a fight.

The first half of the game was controlled by the Lady Chargers. Lathrup did an excellent job controlling the boards allowing them to get second and at times third shot attempts. Marian did not seem to be themselves. There were offensive turnovers; which is very rare for this team and several missed shot attempts. After the break, Marian went on a 10-0 run and never looked back. They played as though the first half never happened. After being outscored 18-9 in the third quarter, Lathrup fought to regain their lead, but ultimately fell short. The Lady Mustangs of Bloomfield Marian advance to the regional finals.

Coaches from Rutgers University and Northwestern University were in attendance at tonight’s game.

Game Highlights

Southfield Lathrup:

• 2017 5’ 8” Guard Deja Church lead all scorers with 22 points. At halftime she contributed 15 of her team’s 19 points. She also earned 8 rebounds and 3 steals. Playing until the last horn sounded, Church went to the line three times during the last two minutes of the game, after being fouled while driving the ball to the hoop.

• Lathrup controlled the boards on both ends of the court but was often unable to reward themselves with a basket.

• 2016 6’ 2” Bello twins, Kehinde and Taiye, combined for a total of 15 of Lathrup’s rebounds. Taiye shot 7-10 from the free throw line.

• Only four players were able to score for the Lady Chargers, with only one player in double figures.

Bloomfield Marian:

• Despite sluggish play in the first half, the Lady Mustangs were able to come out on fire in the third quarter, knocking down 3-three pointers and forcing Lathrup to turn the ball over and burn two timeouts.

• 2017 5’ 10” Forward Samantha Thomas earned a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds. She also had 5 steals and 4 assist. Her presence was felt on both ends of the court.

• Marian also only had four players to score this game, but three of their four players were in double figures. (Robinson 10, Gray 12, and Thomas 18)

• Marian did a magnificence job keeping their composure and staying focused through adversity. This attitude combined with the dominate play from Thomas is what helped them to capture this victory.

   

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