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Sports
By: Patrick Browne
ISHPEMING — After returning from a two-week winter hiatus, the Lady Wykons won their first three games, improving their record to 4–3. With victories over Kingsford, Forest Park and Menominee, the Wykons were back in a groove and playing well. On Jan.15, the Wykons took their success on the road to Ishpeming to take on the 6–0 Hematites, who were described by Wykon coach Eric Shamion as, “the best team in the U.P.”
Ishpeming entered the contest with an undefeated record and with the No. 1 ranking in Division 4. West Iron, not ranked but receiving votes in the most recent rankings, entered the contest with a winning streak and the opportunity to continue their momentum.
From the start the Hematites showed their No. 1 ranking was well-deserved. Scoring 18 points in the first quarter against a high-quality Wykon defense, the Hematites had West Iron on its heels. Seanna Stine, Haiden Gill and Danica Shamion worked hard to stem the tide, putting up 13 first-quarter points and keeping the score close.
The second quarter saw both teams cool in their offensive production with Ishpeming putting up 10 to the Wykons eight points. Entering the half the Wykons trailed by seven, 28–21.
Characteristic of a strong team, the Hematites returned from the break and sank an impressive 22 points in the third quarter, led by Janessa Eagle who dropped in 10. The Wykons countered with 13, but saw the Ishpeming lead grow to 50–34.
While the Wykons were not able to climb back into the game and eventually lost, 68–48, both teams are credited with a well-played game and an effort which never waned.
“I’m proud of the way our kids battled against the best team in the U.P.,” Shamion said. “Ishpeming presents many challenges with their athletic ability. They wouldn’t let us get into any rhythm on offense, but we continued to play physical and that will pay dividends down the road.”
The Wykons were led by Danica Shamion who kept the Wykons competitive with 19 points, Haiden Gill who played a strong supporting role with seven and Kaitlyn Smith and Rowyn Fiszer who both contributed six.