Hoyt leads Lady Huskies to playoff win

Courtesy of MTU Athletics

HOUGHTON, Mich. – Senior Sam Hoyt led three Michigan Tech women’s basketball players in double figures in a 71-56 win in the quarterfinals of the GLIAC Tournament Wednesday (March 6). The Arkansaw, Wis., native poured in 20 points shooting 6-of-10 from the field, including three 3-pointers. She finished with five rebounds, four assists and three steals.

“I think she was trying to have a memorable last night at home,” said head coach Kim Cameron regarding Sam Hoyt’s final home game in a Tech uniform.

The Huskies virtually led from the start thanks to strong defense. Tech held Grand Valley State to 35-percent (10-29) from the field and 1-of-6 (17-percent) from behind the arc in the first half. The Huskies would lead by as many as 18 in the half before heading to the locker room with a 37-25 lead.

The defensive dominance continued for the Huskies in the second half where they led by as many as 21. Tech held Grand Valley to 34-percent (12-35) from the field and 0-for-7 from deep.

Tech’s offense shot 47-percent (23-49) from the field including 7-of-12 (58-percent) from deep. Tech shot 18-of-21 from the free throw line compared to Grand Valley who shot 11-of-17.

Sophomore Jillian Ritchie scored a career-high 18 points shooting 5-of-10 from the field and 3-of-4 from behind the arc. The De Pere, Wis., native grabbed nine rebounds and finished with two blocks and one steal.

“I felt Jillian was a difference maker tonight all over the floor,” said Cameron. “She was incredible, and has really stepped up for us.”

Freshman Kylie Moxley was the third Tech player in double-digits with 16.

Alex Stelfox and Daina Grazulis each finished with 10 points for the Lakers. GVSU held a 34-14 lead in points in the paint.

Tech (20-7) will face Findlay (23-4) in the semifinals of the GLIAC Tournament Saturday (March 9).