Trailblazers Upset Ranked Lake Land, Advance With Historic Win

GODFREY, Ill. — The Lewis and Clark Community College women's basketball team delivered one of the program's most significant victories in recent memory, defeating nationally ranked Lake Land College to continue its postseason run.

Head coach Isaac Moore credited the team's defensive effort and physical play as the foundation of the win.

"We played incredibly hard all game long and didn't give up any easy buckets," Moore said. "This team has been above the curve offensively all year, so it was nice to get stops."

Rebounding proved to be a deciding factor, with the Trailblazers controlling the glass on both ends of the floor. Ruby Stuckemeyer led all players with 12 rebounds, while guard La'Tasja Deloney added 10 boards of her own in a standout all-around performance. Abby Kreitner also made a key defensive impact, forcing seven turnovers against one of the top players in the region.

"We rebounded incredibly well and that was the difference," Moore said. "Great team win all around."

Lewis and Clark's guards also played a crucial role in managing the tempo, particularly in key late-quarter situations. Moore said the team's ability to control pace forced Lake Land out of its comfort zone.

"I told the team at halftime that they did an incredible job of controlling the pace," Moore said. "There were several moments to end quarters and the half where our guards slowed the game down and got the matchups that we wanted. This forced Lake Land to start pressing, which is outside of their normal identity."

The victory carries historic significance for the Trailblazers. According to Moore, the program had not defeated Lake Land since Dec. 2, 2017, and the win marks Lewis and Clark's first victory over a team that had been ranked for most of the season during his tenure.

"This win is unprecedented since my time began with LC women's basketball," Moore said. "It's our first win against a team that was ranked for most of the year, and we're all incredibly proud of the momentum of the program."

With the postseason continuing into March, Moore emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment while recognizing the work that brought the team to this point.

"We've earned the right to get a few more days as a team and with the sophomores," Moore said. "We're playing in March, and the women in our locker room should just have fun and be proud of the work they've put in. I'm excited to see how it ends."

Lewis and Clark will play Tuesday, March 3, when the Trailblazers travel to face Illinois Central College. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. CST at Ramsey Gym.

Written by: Alexandra Dunn, Athletics Social Media Coordinator