When I was recruited to play basketball here, one of the selling points that the coaches stressed was the GREAT natural rivalry with Pitt State. I really didn’t have any idea what they were talking about, but they made it sound like it was an intense natural rivalry. Then, when I arrived on campus I began to hear more about it. Things like: it was a big game on our schedule, the community rallies behind the Green and Gold, and it will be a GREAT environment at home and on the road. By the time Jan 2nd rolled around, I was so ready to be a part of this rivalry! I was very excited and ready to help lead my team to victory!
We watched a lot of game film and focused mainly on our offense execution. We knew coming into this game that they would pick us up in the full court (with some trapping) the entire game and it was CRUCIAL that we take care of the ball and value every possession. It was something that we worked on throughout the entire week of preparation. That preparation paid off, because we only turned the ball over 11 times, which was a season low!! In the end, however, it was our ability to defend in the half court that led us to the 60-52 victory!!
It was really special to see the support we had behind us with our community. It was the first time I had ever seen Leggett & Platt Athletic Center so full during a basketball game this season. It was so exciting to know that the town of Joplin cared so much about that game, and was right behind us supporting until the final buzzer. The other thing that was great to see that night, was having the alumni there for us!! After the game, we had a chance to talk with some of the alumni of our program, it was great to see and meet the women that had come before me and worn the same jersey!! The best part of it was hearing all the stories about when they played here at Southern! But I have to admit; it was a greater feeling seeing the smiles on their face after the win over Pitt! :)
This will be an important week for us because we want to close out the first round of the conference with 3 strong performances. We came up 4 points shy of knocking off the #8 team in the country on Saturday and we are hungry to get back on the court and start another winning streak!!
It all starts with Fort Hays coming to our place on Monday. The forecast calls for snow in Joplin, so it’s a GREAT day to stay indoors and watch some basketball!! After a day on Tuesday we will get back on the practice floor and prepare for the road trip. We play two games in three days against Neb. Omaha and Northwest Mo. State. Thanks for all of your support!!
Until next time...It's a GREAT day to be a LION!!
Larrita Gipson
Junior Guard
