This Rock Valley conference game was played at Fiserv Forum on the Milwaukee Bucks new "City Edition" court. It was an extremely tight game with no team leading by more than 5 points throughout regulation and overtime. Clinton's largest lead of 5 points came with just under 1:30 left in regulation, but Big Foot clawed back, briefly taking the lead with 23 seconds to go on Senior Natalie Klamm's "and 1" after snagging an offensive rebound and being fouled while putting it back up and in. She hit the subsequent free throw. Big Foot was called for a foul on the ensuing possession and Clinton made 1 of 2 free throws to send it to overtime. Unfortunately for Big Foot, a significant subplot of the game - and overtime - was free throws. In overtime alone, Clinton was awarded 10 free throws, making 6 of them to pull out the win. For the game, Clinton was awarded 42 free throws, making 23, while Big Foot was 12 for 15 from the line. Big Foot finished the game with 3 starters fouled out and 2 more players on the verge with 4 fouls. Sophomore Leah Paulsen led all scorers with 23.
Quote from Coach Jon Stankevitz: "It was a really special atmosphere playing at Fiserv. A huge thanks to AD Welden (Big Foot) and AD Gamble (Clinton) for their willingness to coordinate the details to make this event happen. Of course I'm disappointed by the outcome of the game, but am also really proud of our girl's composure and resilience in the face of adversity throughout the game. We continue to have things to improve on, but also a lot of positive things to take from this game."
Quote from Senior Kelsie Kroening: “It was such a cool experience playing at Fiserv Forum! Even though the outcome was not what we hoped for, it was still an unforgettable experience!”
Stat Leaders:
Leah Paulsen (Sophomore) - 23 pts, 3 steals, 6 rebounds
Mya Gonzalez (Junior) - 4 pts, 6 steals, 4 rebounds
Natalie Klamm (Senior) - 3 pts, 1 steal, 8 rebounds
Big Foot's next game will be at Catholic Central on Tuesday, December 3.
Photo Credit: Wyatt Vail - WAV Photo
