(GIRLS) Heritage Woods Kodiak's defeat Regina's Luther College Lions

Written by Stu Mittlestead, Carson Graham Grad ‘06

The Saturday matinee matchup featured the Heritage Woods Kodiaks and the Luther College Lions. The Kodiaks were looking to avenge an overtime loss that would have sent them to the finals while the Lions had a sour taste in there mouth after a lopsided loss to the tournament favourite.

The Kodiaks started strong going up 6-1. Natalie Hamm on Luther was using her height taking it hard to the rim while her teammate, Nicole Ponto, launched a long 3 pointer that found nothing but net. Kodiaks were getting it done in many ways at the other end of the court. It was a Swiss army knife offence if you will, led by Jenna Griffin’s 11 point opening frame. Anika Holobetz for Luther went 2 for 2 from the foul line and the quarter ended 18-10 for Heritage Woods.

Sharp shooter Jenna Griffin was trying to heat up from beyond the arc. After nailing her first attempt, she launched multiple attempts from NBA 3-point depth that just barely missed the net. Heritage woods was employing a high pressure defence including a frequent double team on the point guard. While that was effective at times, Luther College used quick ball movement leading to Hamm and Vanderhoott scoring from down low. The Kodiak’s continued to spread around the scoring stretching their lead to 10 at the break.

The second half started quick. Hamm got the Kodiaks off to a good start with 2 baskets in a row. Teagan Seiterling was having a good day on the hardwood and answered back off a well executed inbound play. Heritage Woods was still running an effective press defence that was proving challenging to overcome. While small in stature, Atrina Shadgam on Heritage Woods was shining in the 3rd quarter. Some nifty footwork allowed her to find lanes and take it to the basket on a number of occasions.

In the 4th, wholesale subs had Ogundibo back on the court. She was strong all game at both ends of the court and made an impact with an immediate 3 pointer. Number 4 and 12 on white were also making shots. However, it was difficult to close much ground against a well balanced Kodiaks team.

Both sides battled to the final horn. The scoreboard read 63-36 for your Bronze medalists, Heritage Woods. Thank you to both teams for competing in the No Regrets tournament and safe travels back home. We hope to see you next year!