Queens attempt comeback but fall to Rattlers 79-71

The Red Deer College Queens Basketball team and Medicine Hat College Rattlers entered this afternoon's game tied in the ACAC Women's Basketball South Division with 4 points. Medicine Hat had a strong first half, then momentum swung in favour of the Queens in the second half. The Queens attempted the comeback but time ran out and the Rattlers won 79-71.

The first quarter was back and forth but the Rattlers took a slight lead going up 25-19. Dedra Janvier led the Queens with 11 points. The Queens were perfect from the free throw line in the opening quarter sinking 8-of-8.

The Rattlers increased their lead after the second quarter 47-28. At the half, Emily White contributed a total of 9 points and 1 rebound. As a team the Queens gathered a total of 12 rebounds after 2 quarters. 

Medicine Hat College pushed their lead up to 23 points (61-38). The Queens went on a 10-2 run and after 3 quarters of play the Rattlers led 63-48. Emily White led the RDC Queens in points with 15 after 3 quarters. White also added 3 assists and 6 rebounds. In the third quarter, the Queens outscored the Rattlers 20-16. 

In the fourth quarter the Queens showed resiliency and climbed their way back into contention only trailing by 6 points (69-63). RDC showed good energy in the final quarter and Eva Bonde sank a three pointer at the buzzer, but the Rattlers won 79-71. In the fourth quarter the Queens outscored Medicine Hat College 23-16. RDC finished with 29 rebounds and 15 assists.

Emily White was named the Queens player-of-the-game. The Management Certificate student finished with 21 points, 3 steals, 3 assists and 7 rebounds.

While disappointed with the result, Queens Head Coach Ken King liked the push back.

"The student-athletes showed some fight in the fourth quarter," said King.

Looking ahead to the upcoming week, King has his sights on a couple of areas to work on.

"We want to focus on defensive rebounds and preventing offensive rebounds along with giving a consistent effort," said King.

Next weekend, the Queens have a pair of games on the road. Friday, Nov. 25 the RDC Queens face the Ambrose University Lions in Calgary at 6:00 p.m. Lethbridge College will host the RDC Queens on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 6:00 p.m.