In a thrilling matchup on Wednesday night, Clawson managed to secure a 56-47 victory over Center Line, enhancing their record to 8-1 in the MAC Silver league.
Last season, Center Line struggled, finishing without a win in the division. However, this year, they have demonstrated significant improvement, now holding a 7-3 overall record and a 2-2 mark in the league. Clawson”s head coach Michelle Lindsey acknowledged the competitive nature of the league this season, stating, “Any given day, any of us can come out with a W. Center Line has improved so much from last year, all props to them and the coaching staff for what they”ve done with the kids.”
Despite their efforts, Center Line could not completely close the gap after trailing at the end of the first quarter, 16-7. Josh Banks, the head coach for Center Line, noted that some of his players who typically do not start were in the lineup, which contributed to their early struggles. “I had to enforce the rules and the starting lineup was a little different,” he explained. “But still, the girls we had in, they knew what the game plan was; they just didn”t execute it.”
Clawson utilized a pressing defense to establish their lead, which at times disrupted Center Line”s rhythm. Lindsey mentioned, “We tried to press them most, if not all of the game to get them uncomfortable in the full court.” Both teams focused on attacking the paint, with minimal success from beyond the arc, as each managed only two three-pointers.
Center Line junior Janiyah Thomas made a strong contribution, but Clawson”s defense limited her effectiveness, holding her to nine points. In a late-game push, Center Line reduced Clawson”s lead to just four points, but crucial baskets from Clawson”s Addison Tikey and sophomore Lily Buchler helped secure the win. Buchler finished the game with a team-high 13 points.
Despite the loss, Center Line is showing promise for the rest of the season, with Banks acknowledging the growth of his team. “It”s a process coming up here with no freshman or JV team,” he stated. “Whoever comes out is who we work with, so it”s just year-by-year progression, getting better.”
Both teams will continue their league play on Friday, with Center Line taking on Lamphere and Clawson facing Warren Mott.
