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March 2007
03.29.07
Knights Baseball Team Swings into form versus Northern Essex winning 13-1
03.24.07
Knights lose Heartbreaker in OT to Des Moines Area CC 71-69
03.22.07
Baseball Florida Spring Training Report
03.19.07
03.16.07
Lady Knights National Championship Dreams Come to an End
Lady Knights Softball Spring Training Day 3 Report
Knights lose their second match of Spring Break to Powerhouse Gloucester CC
03.15.07
Scott’s 30 points helps #8 CCRI Lady Knights Survive First Round Scare from unranked Edison CC 68-65
Knights Baseball Spring Training Report- North Carolina Trip
CCRI Tennis team loses first match of season to powerhouse Harford CC
03.14.07
Lady Knights Softball Spring Training Day 2 Report
03.12.07
Lady Knights Spring Training Double header Report 3/12/07
03.09.07
Knights Knock-off #3 ranked Harcum College 77-68 to win Northeast District Championship!
03.09.07
03.05.07
Grimes Leads Knights Second Half Surge over Orange County 68-61 for Third-Straight Region XXI Title!
Kinney and Scott lead Lady Knights to Fourth Straight NJCAA Division II National Tournament!
03.04.07
03.03.07
CCRI Knight to face Orange County CC in Region XXI Championship Game Sunday March 4th at 2:00pm
Lady Knights to face Union County College in Northeast District Championship Sunday 3/4 at Noon
03.02.07
Scott’s 36 and Kinney’s 31 Lead Lady Knights to Fourth Straight Region XXI Postseason Crown
03.01.07
Lady Knights to face Dean College in Region XXI Championship Thursday night at 7:00pm
CCRI Lady Knights and Dean Square off for Third Time this Season
Knights Baseball Team Swings into form versus Northern Essex winning 13-1
The CCRI Knights men’s basketball team defeated the Knights of Northern Essex CC 13-1. With the victory the CCRI Knights improve their record to 4-7 on the season.
The CCRI Knights started quickly as starting pitcher Christopher Day (North Kingstown, RI) struck out the Northern Essex side in order in the top of the first inning. From there the Knights used that momentum to start a first inning rally as Blake Burns (Osceola, FL) walked and David Boyajian (Warwick, RI) reached base on a infield hit and clean-up hitter Jake Sullivan (Lincoln, RI) did his part by smashing a three run homer over the left field fence giving the CCRI Knights the 3-0 lead. From there CCRI never looked back adding to their score until the game was ended in the fifth inning by the mercy rule with the score 13-1 CCRI.
On the mound for the Knights Christopher Day (North Kingstown, RI) was dominant pitching a five inning complete game (game shortened to five innings due to the mercy rule). Day lowered his team-leading ERA to 1.77 allowing just one run on two hits with nine strikeouts and no walks.
At the plate the CCRI Knights scored 13 runs on eleven hits led by Jake Sullivan (Lincoln, RI) who raised his batting average to .375 was 2-2 with a first inning three run homer and a double with a total of four RBI and Sean Arlan (East Providence, RI) who was 2-3 with a homerun and three RBI. Also contributing to the Knights hit parade was Blake Burns (Osceola, FL) who raised his team-leading batting average to .478 by going 2-2 with a double, John Amore (Johnston, RI) who raised his average to .360 by going 2-4 with a double and two RBI, and Kyle Johnson (North Kingstown, RI) added a double and an RBI.
The Knights next games will be Saturday March 31st at Roxbury CC at noon for a doubleheader.
Knights lose Heartbreaker in OT to Des Moines Area CC 71-69
The CCRI Knights men’s basketball team, playing in the consolation round of the NJCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Tournament, lost a gut-wrenching defeat in overtime to the Bears of Des Moines Area CC 71-69. With the loss the Knights finish the season 16-18 on the season.
The Knight and Bears both played with tremendous intensity with neither team giving an inch. The Knights took a 14-10 lead at the 13:00 on a basket by Carl Lee (Warwick, RI), the Bears answered with seven straight points to take a 17-14 lead at the 10:20 mark. Connor Evans (Cranston RI) hit a turn around jumper making the score 18-17 CCRI at the 9:00 mark from there the Bears went on a 13-8 run and were able to extend to their biggest lead with 1:32 left in the half. The Knights finished the half strong as Connor Evans tipped in a basket with .3 left on the clock making the score 32-31 Des Moines and giving the Knights momentum going into halftime.
The Bears extended their lead to five at 40-35 at the 16:45 mark on a baseline move from Rodney Grace. The Knights battled back to take a 42-41 lead on a 3-pointer by Pat Dame (West Greenwich, RI) at the 15:31 mark. The Knights and Bears traded the lead for the eight minutes until Connor Evans gave the Knights the 55-53 lead with just 6:00 left in regulation. The Knights extended their lead to 64-60 with 2:35 left the score remained the same until under a minute left. With just 25.2 seconds left the Knights led 64-60 with DMACC diminutive Point Guard Grant Burns (5’8") at the foul line to shoot two shots, Burns makes the first but misses the second and in a mad scramble for the ball the ball was tipped back to Burns who hit a crushing 3-pointer to tie the game at 64-64 with 6.8 seconds left. Dame dribbled down the court to try and give the Knights the lead but he was hit hard in the paint with no foul and the ball was tipped out by DMACC with .2 seconds left on the clock the Knights inbound play was unable to yield a basket.
In overtime the Knights were playing without Will Lyons who fouled out with 1:02 remaining in regulation and Jamiel Nisbett (Marlboro, MA) who did not play the whole game because of injury. The size advantage was in DMACC’s favor. DMACC scored first making the score 66-64 Chris Birrell (Scituate, RI) answered with a 3-pointer giving the Knights the 67-66 lead with 3:18 left. Rodney Grace for DMACC hit 1-2 free throws to tie the score at 67-67. Ashton Sauls for DMACC hit a big 3-pointer to give DMACC the 70-67 lead with 1:45 left. Dame hit a basket on a beautiful pass from Evans to cut the lead to 70-69 with 1:06 left. Burns was again at the foul line for DMACC he made 1-2 making the score 71-69 with 18.2 left. DMACC knocks the ball out of bounds with just 6.3 left and calls their last timeout. The Knights ran a play for Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI) being guarded by the smaller Burns whop had four fouls. Grimes gets the shot off but it rolls around the rim and out he gets his own rebound and the follow hit front rim as the buzzer sounded. Knights lose 71-69.
Pat Dame (West Greenwich, RI) led the way for the Knights scoring 16 points with four rebounds, three assists, and three steals followed by Connor Evans (Cranston, RI) who scored 12 points with seven rebounds, and Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI) who also scored 12 points with six rebounds. Also Contributing for the Knights was Co-Captain Will Lyons (Warwick, RI) scoring 11 points with eight rebounds, and a blocked shot, Co-Captain Chris Birrell (Scituate, RI) scoring 11 points with two steals and two rebounds, and Carl Lee (Warwick, RI) added five points and two steals.
The Knights had a great season making it to the Nationals though they are disappointed they have nothing to hang their head about they fought valiantly but came-up just short.
Knights’ hopes for a Championship lost to Lewis & Clark CC 74-61
The CCRI Knights men’s basketball team, playing in their first game of the NJCAA Division II Basketball Nationals in Danville, Illinois, lost to the Trailblazers of Lewis & Clark CC 74-61. With the loss the Knights’ record falls to 16-17 on the season. The Knights move to the Consolation bracket where they will face Des Moines Area CC from Boone, Iowa Friday at noon (11am Central Time). If the Knights defeat the Bears of DMACC they can finish no worse than 8th and have a chance to finish 7th at the National Tournament.
The Knights found themselves down 5-0 quickly as the Trailblazers’ Eric Gilchrese started scoring his game high 24 points by knocking down a 3-pointer and followed that up with a fast break lay-up just 1:30 into the game. The Knights battled back to take a 6-5 lead at the 15:01 mark on a basket from Co-Captain Will Lyons (Warwick, RI). From there the Trailblazers went on a 13-2 run making the score 18-8 at the 9:35 mark. The Knights and Trailblazers traded baskets for the next three minutes until Lewis & Clark used their suffocating defense to extend their lead to 17 with the score 38-21 at the half.
In the second half the Knights came out with a sense of urgency as they ratcheted up their defense to cut the lead to 10 points at the 13:18 mark after two fast break steal and lay-ups by Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI). Lewis & Clark was able to extend their lead back to 15 with efficient shooting from Pierre Howard who finished with 21 points on the night. The Knights cut the lead down to 11 on a steal and fast break from Connor Evans (Cranston, RI) making the score 51-40 at the 10:51 mark. However that is a close as the Knights would get as The Trailblazers put their final big run together over the next six minutes to extend to their largest lead of the game 68-49 at the 4:21 mark. The Knights cut into that lead down the stretch but only got as close as the final score 74-61.
Connor Evans (Cranston, RI) led the way for the Knights scoring 16 points, four rebounds, three steals followed by Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI) who scored 15 points with four rebounds and two blocked shots and Co-Captain Will Lyons (Warwick, RI) added 10 points and six rebounds. Also contributing for the Knights was Pat Dame (West Greenwich, RI) who scored five points with six rebounds, four assists and two steals, Co-Captain Chris Birrell (Scituate, RI) who had five points and five steals, and Kenny Portee (Brooklyn, NY) added five points as well.
The Knights look to bounce back and finish in the Elite Eight with a win over Des Moines Area Community College Friday at noon (11am Central Time).
Baseball Florida Spring Training Report – Day 1 – 3/13/07
Knights get First Two Wins of the Season
CCRI Men’s Baseball team beat Brookdale Community College 7-1 to get their first win of the season. They then follow that win up later in the day with a 7-4 win over Columbia Green Community College. With the two wins the Knights improve to 2-4 after losing four straight down in North Carolina.
In the first game of the day Chris Day (North Kingston, RI) was on the mound for the Knights. Day went out and a complete game, throwing seven solid innings giving up just one run on four hits. He also struck out six Brookdale batters on his way to evening his record to 1-1 on the season.
Offensively the Knights were led by David Martin (Portsmouth, RI) and Kyle Johnson (North Kingston, RI). Martin went 3-3 in the first game with two singles and a home run. Martin scored two runs and had two RBI’s. Kyle Johnson went 1-4 with a two run home run the sealed the win for Knights.
In the second game the Knights sent Dave Gladding (Cranston, RI) to the mound. Gladding pitched five innings giving up just three runs on three hits while striking out ten batters. Gladding was relived in the sixth inning by David Mahar (Richmond, RI) who pitched one inning giving up one run on one hit. John Amore (Johnston, RI) then game in for the seventh inning to pick up his first Save of the season.
Brandon Savickas (Johnston, RI) led the Knights offensive versus Columbia Green Community College. Savickas went 2-4 scoring one run and driving in three RBI’s. Blake Burns (Osceola, FL) went 2-3 during the game with a single and a triple.
Baseball Florida Spring Training Report – Day 2 – 3/14/07
Knights Split Day 2 Double Header
In game one of the day the CCRI Knights lost to Team Ontario 9-4. With the loss the Knights drop to 2-5 on the season. However the Knights were able to bounce back in the second game of the day by beating Macomb Community College 7-5. With the win the Knights were able to improve their record to 3-5 on the young season.
The Knights sent Victor Baez (Providence, RI) out to the mound in game one of day two. Baez last only three innings giving up five runs all earned on three hits and walking four batters. Baez was relived by Kyle Kells (Scituate, RI) who in a third of an inning gave up four runs. David Mahar (Richmond, RI) came in for Kells and gave the Knights an excellent performance pitching 2 2/3 giving up no runs and no hits while striking out four.
Jake Sullivan (Lincoln, RI) and Fernando Sanchez (Brooklyn, NY) each drove in an RBI for the Knights. Sullivan went 2-4 on the day while Sanchez went 1-3.
In the second game of the day the Knights sent Jesse Ladig (Deerfield, FL) to the mound. Ladig gave the Knights a much needed quality start after having to go deep into the bullpen in game one. Ladig pitched 6 1/3 innings giving up five runs on seven hits. Ladig struck out one and did not walk any batters. Ladig turned the ball over to David Mahar who closed the game out picking up his first save of the year.
The Knights were carried offensively by Blake Burns (Osceola, FL) who went 3-4 during the game. Blake scored three runs while driving in two. He also got help from Kyle Johnson (Scituate, RI) who went 1-3 and drove in two runs.
Baseball Florida Spring Training Report – Day 2 – 3/14/07
Knights End Trip with Two Losses
The Knights finish up there Florida road swing with two losses on the last day of the trip. In the first game of the day the Knights lost to Team Ontario for the second time in two days. The final score was 11-7. In game two of the day the Knights lost to Triton College 8-1. With the losses the Knights finished the six game road trip 3-3 and fall to 3-7 on the season.
During the first game of the day the Knights sent out Warren Sternberg (North Kingston, RI) to the mound. Sternberg pitched five innings giving up 12 hits and nine runs. Two of those nine runs were unearned. In the sixth inning the Knights went to the bullpen and brought in Eric Page (South Kingston, RI) who pitched the final two innings giving up two runs.
Down 9-3 going into the sixth inning the Knights were able to cut Ontario’s lead to two. The Knights were able to push across for runs in the inning lead by Nick Simon (Pawtucket, RI) who had and RBI and scored a run during the rally. Simon finished the game 2-5 with a double and two runs scored. Once cutting the lead to 9-7 Team Ontario was able to push two more runs across and won 11-7. The Knights Blake Burns (Osceola, FL) finished the game 2 for 2 with two runs scored and two runs batted in.
In game two of the day John Amore (Johnston, RI) got the call to start to the game. "Amore competed well for the time he was in the game" Coach Ken Hopkins said of Amore’s performance. Amore pitched 4 1/3 innings surrendering four runs on eight hits while striking out three batters.
Amore did not get the help that he needed from his offense. The Knights batters were held at bay by Triton College pitching. The only Knight that was able to hit in the clutch was Kyle Johnson (North Kingston, RI) who went 2-3 with two doubles and drove in the Knights only run. That run was scored by George Tager (North Providence, RI).
The Knights are now up north for the remainder of the season. They are back in action again this Saturday versus UCONN Avery Point the two teams will play a double with the first pitch being thrown at noon.
In one of the best games to take place in Arizona all week the Lady Knights came up just short versus North Central Missouri College. The Lady Pirates defeated the Lady Knights 79-77. With the loss the Lady Knights finished the season 19-11.
The Lady Knights jumped out to an early lead using a 10-2 run to open the game. NCMC tied the game up using 12-4 run of their own tying the game at 14. From that point on neither team had a lead larger then seven points the rest of the game. The Lady Knights were lead by sophomore guard Michelle McNamee (Cranston, RI) in the first half who scored 13 of her 18 points in the first half. At half the Lady Knights lead by four points, 43-39.
The Lady Pirates jumped out to there largest lead of the game, which was six points, early in the second half. After a CCRI time out the Lady Knights responded to their coach and regained their lead right back on an Ashley Abrahamson (Raynham, MA) jump shot. From the ten minute mark on the two teams exchanged leads and baskets all the down until the end. NCMC was able to extend its lead to six again with one minute to go in the game. However the Lady Knights would not quit. The Lady Knights were able to cut the lead to two on a McNamee basket but were unable to get the ball back. The final was NCMC 79 and CCRI 77.
The Lady Knights were lead once again by Denise Scott (Yonkers, NY) who scored a game high 23 points. Scott also grabbed nine rebounds, had five thefts and dished out three assists. McNamee finished the game with 18 points and grabbed six rebounds in her last game as a Lady Knight. McNamee also had the final basket of the season for the Lady Knights. Also in double figures for the Knights was Ashley Abrahamson who had 13 points and nine rebounds.
Coach Reilly said after the game, "I am pleased with our girls they played very well. I thought it was a quality performance to end the year on. I’m proud that we had the opportunity to compete in the elite eight."
Lady Knights National Championship Dreams Come to an End
The CCRI Lady Knights fall to Kirkwood Community College 92-40. With the loss the Lady Knights fall to 19-10 on the season while the #1 Kirkwood Eagles improve to 32-1.
Kirkwood took the by control from the start of the tip. The Eagles jumped out to a 16-2 lead and a 21-4 lead. The Lady Knights battled back to cut the lead to 12 however that is the closest they would get the rest of the afternoon. Kirkwood expanded their lead to 49-13 at halftime.
The Lady Knights ran into more of the same in the second half. Kirkwood out scored the Lady Knights 43 to 27 in the second half. The Lady Knights had no answer for Kirkwood offensively. Kirkwood had four girls that were in double figures lead by Allie Lindermann who scored 17 points on 7 of 10 shooting. The final was 92-40.
The Lady Knights offensive output was lead by Ashley Abrahamson (Raynham, MA) who scored 10 points and pulled down six rebounds while Jenny Kinney (Milford, NJ) also added 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Latavia Vails (Odenton, MD) added eight points while Janay Perkins (Bronx, NY) scored five.
Coach Reilly said after the game, "Kirkwood was the number-one team in the country and showed it last night. Our goal now is to come back today and win, and finish out the season Saturday with a win. With respect to Kirkwood, making it to the Elite Eight in the nation was an accomplishment for our group and our kids have something to be proud of."
With the loss the Lady Knight will play North Central Missouri State in a losers bracket game. The game will be played at 3 PM with the winner moving on to the 5th/6th place game Saturday at 5 PM.
Lady Knights Softball Spring Training Day 3 Report
Lady Knights earn first win of the season 4-3 over College of Lake County
The CCRI Lady Knights softball team won their first game of the season defeating the College of Lake County 4-3. With the victory the Lady Knights improve their record to 1-4 on the season.
The Lady Knights found themselves down 3-0 in the first inning after a 3-run homerun by College of Lake County second baseman Emily Field but that was one of only three hits and the only runs off Lady Knights pitcher Kate Warrington (North Kingstown, RI). Warrington was impressive striking out a season-high 11 batters over seven innings of work. The Lady Knights got their first run on the scoreboard in the fifth inning as Lindsay Johnston (Pawtucket, RI) singled home Brittany Sirois (Warwick, RI). In the sixth inning the Lady Knights were able to score again as Heather Lynch (Warwick, RI) doubled home Tri-Captain Alyse Fram (Lincoln, RI) and Jenna Bassett (Warwick, RI) tying the score at 3-3. Brittany Sirois was able to sacrifice bunt home Heather Lynch (Warwick, RI) giving the Lady Knights the 4-3 lead going into the top of the seventh inning. After a 45 minute rain delay Kate Warrington was able to retire the sire in order securing the 4-3 victory.
Offensively for the Lady Knights Heather Lynch led the way with two hits a double and a single with two RBI and a scoring the winning run and Tri-Captain Lindsay Johnston added two hits and an RBI. Also contributing for the Lady Knights was Tri-Captain Alyse Fram was 1-3 with a single and a walk and Alison Balzano (Warwick, RI) and Kate Warrington each added a single.
Kate Warrington (North Kingstown, RI) picked up her first victory of the year pitching her best game of the season throwing seven innings striking out eleven allowing just three runs on three hits.
Lady Knights fall to the College of Lake County 2-0 in five innings
The CCRI Lady Knights softball team lost 2-0 to the College of Lake County. With the loss the Lady Knights record falls to 1-5 on the season.
The Lady Knights once again found themselves down early as CLC went ahead 2-0 in the first inning. Unfortunately the game was shortened and ended in the fifth inning before the Lady Knights could come back.
The game featured the second rain delay of the night and the Lady Knights were never able to get into a rhythm producing just one hit over five innings by Tri-Captain Jasmine Bonanca (Swansea, MA).
Jenna Bassett (Warwick, RI) took the tough luck loss allowing the games only two runs, Bassett, normally playing third base was forced into action to pitch for the Lady Knights as pitcher Amy Lemmon (North Attleboro, MA) for the Lady Knights was unavailable due to illness.
The Lady Knights are scheduled to play Lackawanna College Friday morning for a doubleheader at 8:30am and 10:30am.
Knights lose their second match of Spring Break to Powerhouse Gloucester CC
The CCRI tennis team lost their second match to Gloucester County
College of Sewell, NJ. Gloucester CC finished 4th at last year's
National Tournament in Plano, Texas.
Doubles are played in an 8-game pro-set format (first to 8 games wins)
win no-ad scoring in region XIX. In first doubles, CCRI’s Ben Tabor
(Seekonk, MA) and Andrew Parente (Smithfield, RI) lost to
Dmitri Athans and Brian Crispin; 8-2. In second doubles,
CCRI’s Zachary Brothers (North Smithfield, RI) and Geoff
Arnold (Westerly, RI) lost to Mike
Pierantozzi and Sean Mcavinue; 8-5. In third doubles, CCRI’s
Christopher Rich (Smithfield, RI) and Katie Finn (Warwick,
RI) lost to Kyle Stay and Paul Albright; 8-2.
Singles are best two sets out of three, again with no-ad scoring in
Region XIX. In first singles, returning sophomore CCRI’s Christopher
Rich lost to 2006 National Tournament participant Dmitri Athans;
6-0, 6-0. In second singles, returning sophomore CCRI’s Ben Tabor
lost to Brian Crispin; 6-2, 7-5. Tabor was serving for the
second set but his inexperience with no-ad scoring (there is no
advantage scoring - at deuce the next point decides the game) led him to
drop the 10th game and Crispin won the next two to close out the
match. In third singles, CCRI Freshman Geoff Arnold, nursing a
sore right arm, lost to 2006 National Tournament participant Kyle
Stay; 6-4, 6-1. In fourth singles, CCRI Freshman Zachary Brothers
lost to freshman Mike Pierantozzi; 6-2, 6-1. In fifth singles,
CCRI returning sophomore Andrew Parente lost to
freshman John Sooy, 6-2, 6-3. In sixth singles, CCRI freshman
Vanidta Thongsithavong (Providence, RI) lost freshman JD Park;
6-0, 6-0.
GCC had 8 players so all eight CCRI players were able to play. Rounding
out the day in fourth doubles were CCRI’s Vanidta Thongsithavong
and Jennie Sandahl (Falkoping Sweden) losing to Joe Craig
and AJ Park; 8-1. In the shining spot of day two, Sophomore
Katie Finn defeated freshman Joe Craig 8-6 in seventh
singles!
Tuesday March 14th CCRI faces last year's #5 place national finisher,
Harford Community College of Bel Air, MD.
Knights lose final Spring Training Match to powerhouse Harford CC
In their final Spring Break road match, CCRI's tennis team lost their
third match overall and their second match in three days to Harford
Community College of Bel Air, Maryland. Harford finished 5th at last
year's National Tournament in Plano, Texas.
Doubles are played in an 8-game pro-set format (first to 8 games wins).
In first doubles, CCRI’s Ben Tabor (Seekonk, MA) and Chris
Rich (Smithfield, RI) lost to Michael Brooks and Roger
Torres; 8-0. In second doubles, CCRI’s Zachary Brothers
(North Smithfield, RI) and
Geoff Arnold (Westerly, RI) lost to Chris Morrison and
Gary Preston; 8-1. In third doubles, CCRI’s Andrew Parente
(Smithfield, RI) and Katie Finn (Warwick, RI) defeated Eric
Piles and Nick Nelson; 8-5, for CCRI's first positional win
of the 2007 season!
Singles are best 2 sets out of 3. In first singles, returning sophomore
CCRI’s Andrew Parente lost to Longwood University (4-year, Div I)
transfer, Roger Torres; 6-0, 6-0 in a match that was much harder
fought than the score would indicate. In second singles, returning
sophomore
CCRI’s Ben Tabor lost to 2006 National Participant Michael
Brooks; 6-0,
6-4. In third singles, CCRI freshman Zach Brothers lost to 2006
National Tournament participant Gary Preston; 6-1, 6-1 again in a
match that was much harder fought than the score would indicate. In
fact, at one point the exchange was so ferocious that HCC's Preston
dove (on
hard courts) for the ball in an effort to keep Brothers from
getting a game-point against him. In fourth singles, CCRI returning
sophomore Chris Rich battled both freshman Chris Morrison
and sever elbow pain, finally succumbing to Morrison; 6-4, 6-2.
Morrison said after the match
"(Rich) was the nicest player he has played all season and the
first that (he) didn't have to question a single line call with." This
was somewhat ironic as Morrison squeezed Rich on at least
a handful of calls in the 4th singles contest. In fifth singles, CCRI
sophomore Katie Finn lost to sophomore Michael Kennedy,
6-4, 6-7, losing 7-1 in the tiebreak. Finn was serving for the
match but was also nursing a hand injury that had forced her out of
Monday's match, along with fatigue after three days of grueling matches
and her bid to win came up just short. In sixth singles, CCRI freshman
Vanidta Thingsithavong (Providence, RI) picked up CCRI's second
positional win of the 2007 season defeating Nick Nelson; 4-6,
6-4, 1-0 (7-1).
Harford had nine players so all eight CCRI players were able to play.
Rounding out the day in fourth doubles were CCRI’s Vanidta
Thongsithavong and Jennie Sandahl (Falkoping Sweden) losing
to Michael Kennedy and Chris Schley; 8-6. In seventh
singles, CCRI freshman Geoff Arnold had to retire due to an arm
injury. In eighth singles, sophomore Jennie Sandahl again
defeated freshman Chris Schley, this time 6-1, 4-6, 6-2!
Tennis Schedule note: A scheduled Friday scrimmage against Rhode
Island College has been rescheduled to Wednesday, March 21st at 3:30.
Scott’s 30 points helps #8 CCRI Lady Knights Survive First Round Scare from unranked Edison CC 68-65
The CCRI Lady Knights improve to 19-9 on the season with their 68-65 victory over Edison Community College. With the win the Lady Knights advance to the Elite Eight and face number #1 ranked Kirkwood Community College (31-1).
CCRI took control early on in the contest jumping out to a quick five point lead. The Lady Knights were able to maintain there lead however where never able to run away from Edison Community College. The Lady Knights early start was led by sophomore co-captain Ana Sierra (Bronx, NY). Sierra opened the game hitting her first two three pointers and finished the half with a game high 12 points. Edison was able to battle back late in the first half and cut the Lady Knights lead to 37-34.
The second half was played out just like the first half, every time CCRI tried to put Edison away they had an answer. The Knights were able to expand its lead all the way up to seven however back to back baskets by Edison’s sophomore Jodi Zimmerman cut the lead down to three. With two minutes to go in the game Edison was able to take its first lead of the game 59-58. However, a Michelle McNamee (Cranston, RI) baseline jump shot gave the Lady Knights the lead. In the final three minutes Denise Scott (Yonkers, NY) took over offensively scoring the final eight points for the Lady Knights. Scott’s effort coupled with solid defensive down the stretch the Lady Knights helped the Lady Knights hold on and move on with a 68-65 victory.
The Lady Knights offensive output was lead by freshman Denise Scott who had a game high 30 points. 20 of Scott’s points game in the second half. Also in double figurers for the Lady Knights were Michelle McNamee and Ana Sierra. McNamee finished the game with 10 points, three rebounds and three assists, while Sierra had 16 points, three rebounds and six assists.
Coach Reilly said after the game, "Edison did a great job of keeping
it close and they kept coming back. But we were just more athletic and
we executed down the stretch. We scored every time they made a run,
especially with the game on the line,"
The Lady Knights will now move on to face #1 seed Kirkwood
Community College in the Elite Eight. Coach Reilly said of Kirkwood,
"They are a guard oriented team and average well over 80 points a game.
We’ll have to defend the three (pointer) and neutralize their guards."
Tip off is at 5:00pm and can be followed on the NJCAA website with live
updates. The NJCAA link is:
http://www.cybersportsusa.com/tourney.asp?sport_id=1&lev_id=2&assoc_id=70&tc_id=1854
Go Lady Knights!!!
Knights Baseball Spring Training Report- North Carolina Trip
Game 1 Friday March 9th
LOUISBURG 8 CCRI 5
The Knights were playing their first game outdoors after practicing
indoors for a month and as luck would have it they play their first game
against a Top Division I power Louisburg College. The Knights lost a
hard fought battle with a top team in their first game starting their
season 0-1.
On the Mound for the Knights was Dave Gladding (Cranston, RI) who
threw four solid innings allowing four earned runs on just five hits
Gladding pitched well for the first three innings before he ran into
a difficult fourth inning where he gave up four runs on four hits.
Offensively for the Knights Blake Burns (Osceola, FL) had a 3-run double in the seventh inning that cut the Louisburg lead to 8-5 but that is as close as the Knights would get. Also contributing for the Knights were Captain Eric Page (South Kingstown, RI) who was 2-3 with a run scored and Nick Simon (Pawtucket, RI) was 1-4 with an RBI.
The Knight played very well considering that they were playing their
first game of the year and Division I Louisburg was playing their 15th.
GAME 2 Saturday March 10th
LENOIR CC 2- CCRI 1
On the mound for the Knights Chris Day (North Kingstown, RI)
pitched the entire game throwing 6 2/3 innings of outstanding ball,
allowing just two earned runs on six hits with a strikeout. Head Coach
Ken Hopkins said "Chris pitched one hell of a game, he deserved
the win. He will win most games with a performance like that." With the
loss the Knights record falls to 0-2 on the season.
The Knights loaded the bases in the top of the seventh with two outs
when Nick Simon (Pawtucket, RI) was robbed a potential game
winning triple on a great play by a Louisburg outfielder if that ball
had dropped in the Knights would have taken a 4-1 lead into the bottom
of the seventh. Unfortunately that gave Louisburg a little momentum as
the got the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh and scored on a
hit batsman.
Offensively for the Knights the Knights were led by Kyle Johnson
(North Kingstown, RI) who was 1-2 with an RBI and John Amore
(Johnston, RI) who was 1-2. Also contributing for the Knights was
Blake Burns (Osceola, FL) who was 1-3 and Jake Sullivan
(Lincoln, RI) who was also 1-3.
Game 3 Saturday March 10th
LENOIR 9- CCRI 4
The Knights got themselves into an early seven run deficit but thee
dug deep and fought back to get four runs in the fourth inning sparked
by a two-run double from Captain Eric Page followed by an RBI
single from John Amore and closed out the scoring in the fourth as
Yariel Flores (Manhattan, NY) drove in a run on a fielders choice.
Jesse Ladig (Deerfield, FL) was a little rusty in is first outing
as he had a hard time finding g the strike zone threw three innings
allowing just four hits but walked seven which yielded seven runs
Ladig was the star closer on the 2006 Knights team so he will
definitely bounce back in his next outing. Dave Maher (Richmond,
RI) relieved him for two innings on one-hit ball allowing no runs and
striking out one, and Kyle Kells (Scituate, RI) threw one inning
allowing two runs on three hits with a strikeout. With the loss the
Knights record falls to 0-4 on the season.
Game 4 Sunday March 11thh
LENOIR 12- CCRI 2
The game was tied at 1-1 until the fourth inning when Lenoir exploded for eight runs and the Knights couldn’t answer back. With the loss the Knights record falls to 0-4 on the season.
Offensively for the Knights they were led by Kyle JohnsonBrandon
Savickas (Johnston, RI) who also had two hits and an RBI.
On the mound for the Knights Victor Baez (Providence, RI) pitched well for three innings and ran into trouble in the fourth allowing four runs in total over 3 1/3 innings striking out one, Warren Sternberg (North Kingstown, RI) tried to put out the fire in the fourth but yielded five runs o 2/3 of an inning Dave Gladding (Cranston, RI) threw a perfect inning, and Dave Maher (Richmond, RI) gave up three runs over 2/3 of an inning.
The Knights leave for their Florida Spring Training trip Thursday March 15th. They will again be facing stiff competition including Division II powerhouse Brookdale Community College and Division I Triton College.
CCRI Tennis team loses first match of season to powerhouse Harford CC
..
Taking to the road to get some matches, CCRI's tennis team lost
their first match to Harford Community College of Bel Air, Maryland.
Harford finished 5th at last year's National Tournament in Plano, Texas.
Doubles are played in a 8-game pro-set format (first to 8 games wins).
In first doubles, CCRI’s Ben Tabor (Seekonk, MA) and Geoffrey
Arnold (Westerly, RI) lost to Gary Preston and Roger Torres; 8-2. In
second doubles, CCRI’s Zachary Brothers (North Smithfield, RI)
and Andrew Parente (Smithfield, RI) lost to Chris Morrison and
Michael Brooks; 8-1. In third doubles, CCRI’s Christopher Rich
(Smithfield, RI) and Katie Finn (Warwick, RI) lost to Eric Piles
and Michael Kennedy; 8-4.
Singles are best 2 sets out of 3. In first singles, returning sophomore
CCRI’s Ben Tabor lost to Longwood University (4year, DI)
transfer, Roger Torres; 6-0, 6-0. In second singles, freshman CCRI’s
Geoffrey Arnold lost to 2006 National Particpant Gary Preston; 6-1,
6-2. In third singles, CCRI returning sophomore Christopher Rich
lost to 2006 National Tournament participant Gary Preston; 6-0, 6-0. In
fourth singles, CCRI returning sophomore Andrew Parente lost to
freshman Chris Morrison; 6-1, 6-1. In fifth singles, CCRI freshman
Zachary Brothers lost to freshman Eric Piles, 6-1, 3-6, 6-0. In
sixth singles, CCRI sophomore Katie Finn
Harford had nine players so all eight CCRI players were able to play.
Rounding out the day in fourth doubles were CCRI’s Vanidta
Thongsithavong (Providence, RI) and Jennie Sandahl (Falkoping
Sweden) losing to Nick Nelson and Chris Hoover; 8-0.In seventh singles,
CCRI freshman Vanidta Thongsithavong lost to sophomore Michael
Kennedy; 6-1, 6-2.
In the shining spot of the day, Sophomore Jennie Sandahl
defeated freshman Chris Schley 1-6, 6-4, 1-0 (7-0) in eighth singles.
Tuesday March 13th CCRI faces last year's #4 place national finisher,
Gloucester County College of Sewell, NJ..
Lady Knights Softball Spring Training Day 2 Report
Lady Knights fall to Cuyahoga CC 4-3 in the bottom of the 7th inning
The CCRI Lady Knights softball team lost a heartbreaker to Cuyahoga CC 4-3. With the loss the Lady Knights record falls to 0-3 on the season.
The Lady Knights fell behind 1-0 in the fourth inning, but were able to come back with a two-run fifth as Tri-Captain Jasmine Bonanca (Swansea, MA) singled in Alison Balzano (Warwick, RI) and Tri-Captain Lindsay Johnston (Pawtucket, RI). Cuyahoga answered in the bottom of the fifth with another run to tie the score at two. The Lady Knights scored a go ahead run in the top of the seventh on a sacrifice by Johnston that scored Balzano giving the Lady Knights the slim 3-2 lead. Cuyahoga CC got the bases loaded with no outs in the bottom of the seventh inning. The Lady Knights dug deep and were able to get two outs before Cuyahoga CC scored the go ahead run on a bloop hit that found a whole between centerfielder Bonanca and shortstop Alyse Fram (Lincoln, RI) giving Cuyahoga the 4-3 victory.
The Lady Knights had 11 hits led by Tri-Captain Jasmine Bonanca (Swansea, MA) who had three hits and two RBI and Alison Balzano (Warwick, RI) who also had three hits with two runs scored. Also contributing for the Lady Knights were Tri-Captain Lindsay Johnston (Pawtucket, RI) who had a single, a sacrifice, a walk, an RBI, and a run scored, followed by Tri-Captain Alyse Fram (Lincoln, RI) and Kate Warrington (North Kingstown, RI) who each had a double, while Heather Lynch (Warwick, RI) and Brittany Sirois (Warwick, RI) each added a single. Defensively for the Lady Knights third baseman Jenna Bassett (Warwick, RI) had an excellent game as she added to her highlight reel with multiple plays highlighted by a unassisted double play in the fourth inning with a runner on third base catching a blistering line-drive from Cuyahoga power bat Megan Mcquain and diving to tag the runner out to end the inning and scoring threat leaving the score 0-0.
Kate Warrington (North Kingstown, RI) was the tough luck loser in this game though she pitched very well throwing 6 2/3 innings and allowing four runs.
Lady Knights dealt second straight crushing defeat to Cuyahoga CC 6-3 in eight innings
The CCRI Lady Knights softball team lost to Cuyahoga CC 6-3 in eight innings (seven innings is a regulation game). With the hard fought loss the Lady Knights record falls to 0-4 on the season.
In game two the Lady Knights jumped on the board in the first inning with three runs as Tri-Captain Jasmine Bonanca (Swansea, MA) singled home Alison Balzano (Warwick, RI), Tri-Captain Lindsay Johnston (Pawtucket, RI) scored thanks to a tremendous hook slide at home plate as Tri-Captain Alyse Fram (Lincoln, RI) reached on a error by short stop Mallery Kobak then Jasmine Bonanca scored on a fielders choice by Heather Lynch (Warwick, RI). The score remained 3-0 until the top of the fifth inning when Cuyahoga scored their first run and in the seventh when they tied the score at 3-3. The Cuyahoga bats got hot in extra innings as they were able to put up three additional runs to take the 6-3 lead going into the bottom of the eighth inning. The Lady Knights were not able to answer as they took their second late inning loss of the day.
The Lady Knights had seven hits led by Tri-Captain Jasmine Bonanca (Swansea, MA) with two hits a single and a double with an RBI and run scored Alison Balzano (Warwick, RI) added a single and a run scored. Also contributing for the Lady Knights were Jenna Bassett (Warwick, RI) and Cassie Cooney (Central Falls, RI) each had a singe and a walk, Kate Warrington (North Kingstown, RI) added a single each while Alyssa Raymond (Warwick, RI) got her first single of her college career.
Amy Lemmon (North Attleboro, MA) pitched a marvelous game throwing an impressive eight innings in total but just didn’t have the run support to bring the victory home.
The Lady Knights have Wednesday off before returning to the Disney World Wide World of Sports Complex to play College of Lake County (Ill) for a 5pm and 7pm doubleheader.
Lady Knights Spring Training Double header Report 3/12/07
Lady Knights fall to Division I Power John A. Logan 4-0
The CCRI Lady Knights softball team lost to Division I power John A. Logan 4-0. With the loss the Lady Knights record falls to 0-1 on the season.
John A. Logan got on the scoreboard quickly scoring their first run in the first inning and were able to tack on one more in the third making the score 2-0. Logan capped off their scoring with a two-run firth giving them a 4-0 lead and eventually the victory.
The Lady Knights battled hard but could only muster six hits which yielded no runs. Co-Captain Jasmine Bonanca (Swansea, MA) led the way for the Lady Knights with two hits a double and a single followed by Co-Captains Alyse Fram (Lincoln, RI) and Lindsay Johnston (Pawtucket, RI) who each had a single. Also contributing for the Lady Knights were freshmen Jenna Bassett (Warwick, RI) and Alison Balzano (Warwick, RI) each getting the first singles.
Kate Warrington (North Kingstown, RI) pitched a great game in her first outing throwing seven innings striking out four and allowing four runs against a very tough Division I squad.
Lady Knights fall to Northampton CC 10-2
The CCRI Lady Knights softball team playing their second top team in their first two games fell to Northampton CC 10-2 in five innings. Northampton came into the game undefeated and were 78-0 over the last two years and had just defeated John A. Logan 5-3 before CCRI played John A. Logan, so the Lady Knights knew they had their work cut out for them. With the loss the Lady Knights record falls to 0-2 on the season.
Northampton jumped out to a quick 6-0 lead in the first inning and proceeded to tack on a run per inning giving them their 10 runs. The Lady Knights scored their first run of year in the third inning on a single from Alison Balzano scoring Brittany Sirois (Warwick, RI). The Lady Knights were bale to tack on another run in the fifth on a delayed steal of second base from Jasmine Bonanca that allowed Balzano to score from third unfortunately that is all the offense that the Lady Knights could produce losing by the final score of 10-2.
Alison Balzano (Warwick, RI) led the way for the Lady Knights with two hits a double and a single with an RBI and a run scored followed by Co-Captain Jasmine Bonanca (Swansea, MA) who had a single and a stolen base. Also contributing for the Lady Knights were Co-Captain Alyse Fram (Lincoln, RI) who had a single and Jenna Bassett (Warwick, RI) who had a tremendous day in the field making multiple highlight plays and also had the final CCRI single.
Amy Lemmon (North Attleboro, MA) pitched very well after a tough first inning. Once Lemmon settled down and found the tight strike zone that the umpire was calling she was able to get into a groove unfortunately it was too little too late.
The Lady Knight to bounce back from their tough first day when they play Tuesday the 13th at noon and 2:00pm for a double header versus Cuyahoga CC.
Go Lady Knights!!
Knights Knock-off #3 ranked Harcum College 77-68 to win Northeast District Championship!
The CCRI Knights men’s basketball team defeated the #3 ranked Bears
of Harcum College 77-68. With the victory the Knights improve their
record to 16-16 and win the District IX Northeast District Championship.
The Knights earn a trip to Danville Illinois to play in the Men’s
Division II Basketball National Tournament March 21st-24th.
This is the 2nd time in school history that both the Knight’s and Lady
Knight’s basketball teams team have qualified for the National
Tournament in the same year (2004-05).
The Knights came ready to play as they jumped out to a quick 18-3 lead before Harcum was able to get into a scoring groove and showed why they are the #3 team in the Nation taking a 38-29 lead into halftime. The Knights scored on the first two possessions of the second half to cut the lead to four points only to fall behind again by as many as nine points in the second half. Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI) offensively dominated the early part of the second half for the Knights giving way to Connor Evans (Cranston, RI) who took control in the middle portion, followed by huge baskets from Chris Birrell (Scituate, RI) late in the game. Carl Lee (Warwick, RI) hit a huge three point shot to cut the lead to four points with about 10 minutes to go, this big shot seemed to spark a bit of life into the Knights, who then took the lead and held it the rest of the way. Harcum was able to cut the lead to three points, only to see the Knights go on a 12-0 run to pull away. Pat Dame (West Greenwich, RI) and Will Lyons (Warwick, RI) made critical free-throws down the stretch to secure the District Championship for the Knights.
The Knights put forth a balanced scoring attack with five starters scoring on double figures along with tremendous team defense and a solid rebounding effort were the keys to victory for the Knights. Co-Captain Will Lyons (Warwick, RI) led the way with a double-double scoring 15 points with 11 rebounds as did Connor Evans (Cranston, RI) who had 12 points and 12 rebounds, followed by Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI) who scored 14 points with four rebounds. Also contributing for the Knights was Pat Dame (West Greenwich, RI) who scored 13 points with six assists and four rebounds, Co-Captain Chris Birrell (Scituate, RI) added 12 points with two steals, and Carl Lee (Warwick, RI) added nine points and three rebounds.
Head Coach Rick Harris said: "This was a great team win. We had to try and calm down at half time, try not to panic. We had to regroup and refocus together on what we need to do to play well. The team did a great job focusing on doing things together, and that is why we won. This is a great testament to hard work and how far you can go with a common sense of purpose and believing in a dream"
The Knights Next game will be at the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament in Danville Illinois March 21st-24th game time and opponent still to be determined.
The twelve teams that have qualified for the NJCAA Division II National Championship are (in NJCAA National rank order): #1 Kirkwood CC (31-1), #2 Carl Sandburg College (33-1), #4 LSU-Eunice (27-4), #5 Potomac State College (28-3), #6 North Central Missouri College (29-4), #9 Mott CC (28-6), #11 Kankakee CC (24-6), #20 CCRI (18-9), receiving national votes Genesee CC (21-11), Not ranked: Lincoln Land CC (18-14), Chandler-Gilbert CC (17-12), and Edison CC (14-14). The National Tournament Bracket has not yet been set.
The #20 ranked CCRI Lady Knights (18-9) are the #8 seed will face unranked Edison State Community College (14-14) Wednesday March 14th at noon (Mountain Time) in the very first game of the NJCAA National Tournament. If the Lady Knights win they will face #1 ranked and #1 seed Kirkwood CC (31-1) Thursday March 15th at 2:00pm (Mountain Time). Kirkwood CC and CCRI have NJCAA Nationals history as in 2005 CCRI defeated Kirkwood to finish 3rd at the Nationals and last year Kirkwood defeated CCRI in the Semi-finals; this could be their Nationals "rubber match".
The CCRI Lady Knights basketball team will leave TF Green Airport t 5:30pm. The Lady Knights will return Home Sunday 3/18 at 11:10pm at TF Green Airport.
Kinney and Scott lead Lady Knights to Fourth Straight NJCAA Division II National Tournament!
The CCRI Lady Knights improved to 18-9 on the season with their win in the Northeast District Championship. The Lady Knights defeated Union County Community College 86-64. With the win the Lady Knights move on to Phoenix, Arizona to compete in the NJCAA Division II National Tournament which begins Wednesday March 14th.
The first half was all Lady Knights. CCRI jumped out to an early 20-8 lead eight minutes into the game. The run was capped off by back to back baskets by sophomore center Ashley Abrahamson (Raynham, MA). The Lady Owls would cut the lead to seven with six minutes to go in the half and that is the closest they got the rest of the game. Jenny Kinney (Milford, NJ) would help the Lady Knights extend the lead to 10 points at half. Kinney finished the first half with 16 points and the Lady Knights held a 40-30 advantage.
The second half was more of the same. The Lady Knights turned up it defensive pressure and turned it into quick offense. This half the Lady Knights were led by freshmen Denise Scott (Yonkers, NY) who scored 15 points in the half. The Lady Knights used a 16-5 run to put the game out of reach with nine minutes remaining. A Guylene Nsiewe (Doula, Cameroon, Africa) basket capped the scoring for the day and an 86-64 victory for the Lady Knights.
The Lady Knights were once again led by the 1-2 combination of Jenny Kinney and Denise Scott. Kinney finished the game with a team high 25 points, eight rebounds, four assists and four steals. Scott finished the game with 22 points, seven rebounds, four assists and five steals. Also in double figures for the Lady Knights were Ana Sierra (Bronx, NY) who scored 15 points while pulling down six rebounds and Ashley Abrahamson who scored 12 points, pulled down six rebounds, dished out four assists and had three steals.
Head Coach Marcus Reilly said after the game, "From October 1st, we have talked in terms of our defense first. Securing the forth consecutive Northeast District Championship was all about our defensive effort – highlighted by holding Division I bound Marbely Montas (Monmouth) to a season low three field goals. Our offense fed off that effort as we continue to be led by Denise and Jenny who have developed into one of the top 1-2 punches in the country.
The Lady Knights will be back in action on either Wednesday March 14th or Thursday March 15th in Phoenix, Arizona depending on the seeding of the tournament pairings. Times and opponents have yet to be determined.
Grimes Leads Knights Second Half Surge over Orange County 68-61 for Third-Straight Region XXI Title!
The CCRI Knights men’s basketball team defeated the Colts of Orange County CC 68-61 to win the Region XXI Championship. With the victory the Knights improve their record to 15-16 on the season and will now host #3 ranked Harcum College (32-2) in the District IX Northeast District Championship Saturday March 10th at 1:00pm in Warwick.
The game was a defensive battle in the first half, neither team giving any ground in the low scoring affair with the Colts going into halftime with a 28-25 lead. In the second half the Knights were able to quickly set the tempo and took a 45-42 lead on a 3-pointer by Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI) at the 11:45 mark. From there the Knights were able to maintain their lead with excellent defense and rebounding giving them the 68-61 victory and third-straight Region XXI Title.
Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI) led the Knights scoring 12 of his 18 points in the second half with four 3-pointers, three rebounds, three assists and three steals followed by Connor Evans (Cranston, RI) who charted a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Also contributing for the Knights was Co-Captain Chris Birrell (Scituate, RI) scoring 14 points including three 3-pointers with four steals, Co-Captain Will Lyons (Warwick, RI) scoring 14 points with four rebounds and three assists, and Pat Dame (West Greenwich, RI) added eight points, four rebounds and three assists.
Head Coach Rick Harris said: "Great win this afternoon. It is nice for this team, especially the three sophomores, to do something special (win the Region XXI Championship). We are looking forward to next weekend!"
The Knights will host #3 ranked Harcum College (32-2) in the Northeast District Championship Saturday March 10th at 1:00pm at the Vincent A. Cullen field house located on the CCRI Knight Campus in Warwick.
The CCRI Knights men’s basketball team defeated the Bulldogs of Dean College for the fourth time this season 103-81. With the victory the Knights improve their record to 14-14 and advance to the Region XXI Championship Sunday March 4th. The Knights will face Orange County CC who defeated Massasoit CC 93-72.
The Knights jumped ahead of the Bulldogs taking a 13-3 lead just four minutes into the game, the Bulldogs fought back to take the lead at 19-18 by the 11-minute mark. The Knights were able to stay one step ahead of Dean for the rest of the half going in leading 45-41 at the break. In the second half the Knights unselfish play and tremendous fast break defense to open the flood gates and were able to outscore the Bulldogs 58-40 to pull away for the 103-81 victory.
Jake Grimes (Pawtucket, RI) led the Knights scoring 20 points with five rebounds, followed by Pat Dame (West Greenwich, RI) who scored 16 points with season-high eight assists, and Carl Lee (Warwick, RI) also scored 16 with nine rebounds. Also scoring in double figures for the knights were Connor Evans (Cranston, RI) scoring 14 points with five rebounds and five assists, Co-Captain Will Lyons (Warwick, RI) scored 12 points with six rebounds, and Co-Captain Chris Birrell (Scituate, RI) added 11 points, four assists and two steals.
Head Coach Rick Harris said after the game "this was a total team effort, 26 assists in a totally unselfish team effort. We defended their fast breaking and 3-point shooting game very well. I am extremely pleased with our progress and the opportunity we have Sunday to play for the Region XXI Championship against a fine Orange County CC team. We are all looking forward to the challenge."
The Knights will face Orange County CC Sunday March 4th at 2:00pm at the Vincent A. Cullen field house located on the CCRI Knight Campus in Warwick.
CCRI Knight to face Orange County CC in Region XXI Championship Game Sunday March 4th at 2:00pm
The CCRI Knights men’s basketball team will face Orange County Community College Sunday Marcy 4th at 2:00pm at the Vincent A. Cullen field house in the Region XXI Championship Game. The Knights defeated Dean in the first Semi-final 103-81 while Orange County CC defeated Massasoit CC in the second Semi-final game 93-72. This game will be a rematch of their game from December 2nd in which the Knights won 68-66 at Orange County CC.
The Knights Region XXI Championship game will follow the Lady Knights District Championship game at noon versus Union County College at the Vincent A. Cullen field house in Warwick.
Lady Knights to face Union County College in Northeast District Championship Sunday 3/4 at Noon
The Region XXI Champion CCRI Lady Knights basketball team (17-9) will face Region XIX Champion Union County College in the District IX Northeast District Championship game Sunday at Noon. Union County College defeated Harcum College in the Region XIX Championship game Friday night 87-81. The Lady Knights defeated Dean College 94-67 on Thursday night to take the Region XXI Championship. The Lady Knights will be shooting for their fourth straight District Championship and trip to the NJCAA National Championship in Phoenix Arizona.
Scott’s 36 and Kinney’s 31 Lead Lady Knights to Fourth Straight Region XXI Postseason Crown
The CCRI Lady Knights saved there best offensive out of the season for the Region XXI championship game. The Lady Knights ran past Dean College 94-67. With the win the Lady Knights improved their recorded 17-9. Also with the win the Lady Knights move onto the Northeast District Championship game which will be played on the Knight campus Sunday March 3 at noon. The Lady Knights will face off versus the winner of the Region XIX championship game which will be played Friday night between Harcum Community College and Union County College.
Like the pervious two games between Dean and CCRI the first half was extremely close and played with high intensity. The Lady Knights controlled most of the first half. With three minutes left in the half the Lady Knights jumped out to a 14 point lead. However, Dean would not let the Lady Knights run away with the game. Dean responded with 10-0 run to end the half and cut the lead to four points. The Lady Knights were led by Co-captain Jenny Kinney (Milford, NJ) who scored 19 points in the half. The Lady Knights took a 36-32 lead into the locker room.
The Lady Knights came out of the locker room on fire and in three minutes were back up by 11. However, like the first half Dean came storming back and cut the lead back down to four with 12 minutes to go in the game. That would be the closest Dean would get the rest of the night. The Lady Knight’ pressure and solid defense wore the Lady Bulldogs out and the Lady Knights were able to put the game away using an 11-1 run. The second half runs were led by Denise Scott (Yonkers, NY) who scored 29 of her game high 36 points in the second half.
To go along with Scott’s 36 points she also had five rebounds. Scott was not the only Lady Knight to exceed 30 points. Jenny Kinney finished the came with her second double-double this season verses Dean. Kinney finished the game with 31 points and a game high 12 rebounds. Michelle McNamee (Cranston, RI) had her third game in double figures versus Dean College. McNamee finished the game with 13 points, four assists and three rebounds. The Lady Knights also got a great contribution off the bench from Center Ashley Abrahamson (Raynham, MA) who scored six points and pulled down eights rebounds.
Head Coach Marcus Reilly said after the game, "Tonight’s game was a culmination of a regular season’s worth of consistent improvement and preparation. Jenny Kinney and Denise Scott lead a complete team effort with two of the best individual performances in CCRI basketball history. The team’s execution of our scouting report and our system was flawless. The players earned a fourth straight New England Championship and deserve all of the credit. We hope to carry over this effort into the Northeast District Championship Sunday."
The Lady Knights will be back in action when they hope to earn there fourth straight birth to the NJCAA Division II National Championship. Sunday’s contest will tip at noon versus the winner of Region XIX. This game will be followed by the Men’s Region XXI Championship game.
Lady Knights to face Dean College in Region XXI Championship Thursday night at 7:00pm
The CCRI Lady Knights Basketball team who is the #1 seed in the Region XXI Tournament will face Region XXI rival Dean College. Dean College defeated Orange County CC 81-61 in the Region XXI semi-final (OCCC is a stand alone team in Region XV so they compete in the Region XXI Tournament). This was a big win for Dean who had previously lost to Orange County CC twice this season 96-91 in November at Orange and again in January at Dean 75-67. Dean’s victory sets up the rubber match between CCRI and Dean College. Dean College won their first meeting 82-69 at Dean in November while the Lady Knights won last week when they played at the Cullen Field house 74-57.
CCRI Lady Knights and Dean Square off for Third Time this Season
The #19th ranked CCRI Lady Knights found out last night that they will square off with Dean for the third time this season. The game will be held on the Knight Campus in Warwick, Rhode Island on Thursday, March 1st at 7:00 PM. This time the region XXI postseason championship is on the line. The two teams split two games this season with each winning convincingly on their home court.
The Dean College Bulldogs beat the Lady Knights in the first meeting this year 82-69. Dean was led by their three starting guards who combined to score 74 of the teams 82 points. Carmen Smith led the group by pouring in 33 points and scoring some key baskets down the stretch of the game. Sophomore Gretchen Rodrigues hit six three pointers on her way to scoring 26 points. The third member of that trio was Tanya Freeman she scored 15 points. The Lady Knights were led that night by Michelle McNamee (Cranston, RI) who scored a team high 14 points.
The second game took place one week ago today as the Lady Knights used a 12-0 run with 11 minutes to go in the game to solidify a 74-57 win and the conference regular season title for the fourth straight year. That night the Lady Knights got outstanding contributions from all that played. Denise Scott (Yonkers, NY) led the Lady Knights in scoring with 21 points. Scott also had eight rebounds, five steals and four assists. Jenny Kinney (Milford, NJ) contributed to the effort with 15 points and led the team in rebounds with 11. This was Kinney’s first double-double of the season. Also in double figures in scoring were Ana Sierra (Bronx, NY), Latavia Vails (Odenton, MD), and Michelle McNamee (Cranston, RI) who all scored 12 points. Janay Perkins (Bronx, NY) and Ashley Abrahamson (Raynham, MA) also had solid games for the Knights. Perkins had eight rebounds, four assists, and three steals while Abrahamson pulled down five rebounds and dished out two assists.
This will be the second straight year that the two teams will meet in the conference championship for a right to move on to the District Finals. Last year the Lady Knights handled Dean pretty easily as they beating them 85-55. The game will tip off at 7 PM this Thursday night, March 1st
