Michigan Tech Women’s Basketball Prepares for Two Early Season Tests

The Michigan Tech Huskies women’s basketball team got the season off to a great start with a pair of non-divisional wins. As an experienced team, head coach Sam Clayton likes what she’s seen so far, but she knows the Huskies will face a pair of tests this weekend when they host Southwest Minnesota State on Thursday and Ashland on Sunday.

Impressive starts

The Huskies started the season with two impressive wins, defeating William Jewell and Lewis on opening weekend. Clayton was pleased with his team’s effort, especially their defensive intensity and ability to fight for every ball.

Rondolph’s leadership

Senior guard Alex Rondorf has emerged as a key leader for the Huskies, contributing 10.5 points and 7.0 rebounds per game in the first two games. Clayton praised Rondorf’s experience, work ethic and leadership on and off the court.

Vepic on the rise

Freshman guard Alyssa Wypych has emerged as a key contributor for the Huskies, averaging 14.0 points in her first two collegiate games. Wypych has impressed Clayton with her poise and ability to recover from turnovers.

Veteran Presence

The Huskies benefit from experienced players, returning four of their top five scorers from last season. That experience has been invaluable to Wypych, who draws knowledge and guidance from her veteran teammates.

Home court advantage

Clayton is excited to return to SDC Stadium this weekend, as the Huskies had a great home atmosphere on opening weekend. She believes home field advantage will play a key role in the matches against Southwest Minnesota State and Ashland University.

Scouting the Broncos

Southwest Minnesota State enters the showdown with an 0-2 record, having lost to Northwest Missouri State and Nebraska Kearney. Their offense is led by young guard Bri Stoltzman, who is averaging 24.0 points per game.

Eagles.

Ashland enters this weekend’s tournament with a 2-0 record after defeating Wayne State and Indianapolis in the opening weekend. Their scoring leader is senior forward Zoe Miller, who is averaging 20.0 points per game.

Adapting to different styles

Clayton is acclimating her team to two very different styles of play, as Southwest Minnesota State is guard-oriented while Ashland is forward-oriented. She believes taking two days off between games will help prepare for these different styles of play.

Game time.

The Huskies and Broncos will play at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at SDC Stadium in Horton. The Huskies and Hawks are scheduled to face off at 1 p.m. on Sunday.