Collingwood said good-bye to four terrific basketball grads as the senior girls defeated Bodwell 65-54 last night. As usual all four seniors were a huge part of the team's victory. Although the Cavs made it difficult on themselves by missing some very easy shots, the win was assured when senior forward Nikki Sutton-MacGregor exploded for 13 of her game high 15 points in the 4th quarter.
Fellow senior Tiana Wong was her usual outstanding self as she ran the offence, picked off numerous errant Bodwell passes and chipped in with 11 points. Charlotte Campbell and Hazel Atkins also demonstrated why veteran leadership is so important as they were both tenacious on defence and hit the boards hard at both ends. Charlotte kicked in 4 points while Hazel added 3 points.
Amanda Finnie and Kayleigh Garland also had big games. Amanda drove the lane hard all night and was four for five from the charity stripe to score 12 points. Kayleigh was solid underneath. She scored 10 points and proved that she is starting to develop her outside game.
With the win secured, the team and the fans turned their attention to celebrating the four grads. Coach McLaughlin presented Charlotte, Hazel, Nikki and Tiana with a fantastic photo album, framed photo and flowers. Coach M really knows how to do this event right and her love for her players shone brightly throughout the ceremony. Each grad was read a tribute by a younger player and they were all touching. Amanda, Jacqui, Kayleigh and Suha were all terrific.
The Cavs will now play in the West Point Grey tournament this weekend.
Charlotte, Nikki, Hazel and Tiana with their photos and flowers.
The four grads with their beloved coach.