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Sports
Sports
By Patrick Browne
IRON RIVER - On Feb. 16, the Lady Wykons took on the Calumet Copper Kings and came just a few shots short of a stunning upset. The Copper Kings entered the game at 14 and 4, arguably one of the best teams in the Upper Peninsula. The Wykons entered the game at 10 and 8, arguably one of the most competitive teams in the Upper Peninsula.
“We went toe to toe with one of the best teams in the U.P.,” stated Coach Eric Shamion. Never has a more accurate game summary been shared.
The teams played even at seven through the end of the first quarter and while the Copper Kings took a 21-14 lead at the half, the tenacious Wykon defense ensured the game stayed within reach.
The Wykons put the pressure on during the third quarter and managed to cut into the Kings lead. By the end of the third quarter, the Wykons only trailed by five, 33 - 28.
In almost every game the Wykons have played this year, they play their best with the game on the line and have regularly outscored their opponent during the fourth quarter. The Copper Kings were no exception. The Wykons came on strong in the final minutes of play, scored 10 points to the King’s five in the final quarter and forced overtime.
With the extra time, the Copper Kings found their offense and outscored the Wykons 4-0. As the horn sounded, the upset was denied and the Wykons fell 42 - 38.
Coach Shamion echoed what the fans knew, “We had a chance to win in regulation, but couldn’t capitalize.”
Considering Calumet defeated the 16 and 4 Houghton Gremlins by 17 just two days prior to defeating the Wykons by four, Coach Shamion and his girls could walk off the court with their heads held high.
While the team was disappointed with the loss, once again the fans can believe that if the Wykons can string together their best play, there may be an opportunity to win a game or two in the postseason and possibly even the district championship. Time will tell.