Ellsworth Community College women's basketball team participated in the Baymont Inn Classic in Wahpeton, ND, this weekend (Nov. 13-14) taking on North Dakota State College of Science and Dakota College at Bottineau.

The Panthers got off to a fast start in Friday's game, taking an early lead 7-0 in the first three minutes against North Dakota State College of Science, but the Wildcats got into a flow by adjusting to the Panthers' two-three zone. At the half the Wildcats led the Panthers 36-20.

The Wildcats were paced by Brittney Thibeaux, although the Panthers did a great job getting her into early foul trouble. Other players stepped up and knocked down shots, including Aleeya Curtis-Evans (12 points), Kate Williams (10 points) and Kailey Adams (7 points and 9 rebounds).

Antoinette Williams led the Panthers with 18 points and 5 rebounds, and Megan Marlette added 9 points. The Panthers lost that game 67-42.

After their fourth consecutive loss, the Panthers looked to adjust and regain their composure as they faced Dakota at Bottineau on Saturday, Nov. 14.

The Panthers started off slow, only putting 11 points on the board after the first quarter, but once the second quarter started the Panthers picked up the pace. The ladies played with a passion and energy not yet seen this season, and went into the fourth quarter down by just one (48-47).

The game could have been sent into overtime if a last-second shot would have fallen for sophomore guard Anna Smith, who stepped up in this game. Smith finished the game with 12 points and the final score was 62-59.

The Lady Jacks were led by Mary Jones (18 points) and Mattie Schmitt (21 points).

Chantelle Rumph led all scorers with 24 points, while Jade Brown and Marlette added 8 points each.

ECC will return to action with their first home games as they host the Dale Howard Classic. They will play Kennedy King at 6 pm on Friday, Nov. 20, and State Fair at 3 pm Saturday, Nov. 21.