MASON CITY, IOWA -- Ellsworth CC had all five starters score in double-figures and, then, two players get double-doubles as the Panthers began the 2021-22 season with a pair of victories at the Konigsmark Klassic, hosted by NIACC, over the weekend.  ECC took care of Sisseton Wahpeton (ND) Friday, 78-59, and the Graceland University JV, 67-57, the following day to get the new season off to a fast start.

In the opener, the Panthers opened up a 46-27 halftime advantage and maintained that margin at the final buzzer.  Aaliyah Chambers led the five double-digit scorers for Ellsworth with 17 points and made 7-of-11 field goal attempts.  Victaeja Leavy provided a solid all-around game wth 15 points, 8 assists and 7 steals.  Autumn Shull poured in 13 points and grabbed 11 rebounds and Halle Miller also had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds.  Hydiyah Robinson likewise scored 12 points to give the ECC starting five a total of 69 points.  The Panthers had 21 steals, and 21 assists on 33 made field goals.  They also blocked 7 shots, 3 by Katie Winter.

Shull and Miller each had double-figures in points and rebounds in the Saturday win.  Shull tallied a career-high 23 points and snared 11 rebounds and also blocked 5 shots.  Miller chipped in 11 points and 10 rebounds.  Robinson added 9 points and Dreasha Talley had 8 off the bench.  Leavy's 7 assists and 6 steals gave her 15 and 13, respectively, for the weekend.

The next week will be a busy one for the 2-and-0 Panthers.  After a trip to Rochester, MN, to face Rochester Community and Technical College Monday evening, ECC has its home opener against the Clarke JV on Wednesday.  This weekend will be the Dale Howard Classic in Iowa Falls with Oakton CC providing the opposition Friday and the Grand View JV on Saturday.