Manitou Springs takes loss despite strong efforts from McKesson Rhodes and Brooklynn Sheffield

By Team Reports Jan 24, 2024, 1:22pm

Recap: Manitou Springs Mustangs vs. Ellicott Thunderhawks

The Manitou Springs Mustangs's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Friday after their third straight loss. They fell to Ellicott 34-28. The loss unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Manitou Springs in their matchups with Ellicott: they've now lost three in a row.

Manitou Springs' loss shouldn't obscure the performances of Brooklynn Sheffield, who dropped a double-double on ten points and ten rebounds, and McKesson Rhodes who scored nine points along with eight rebounds. That was a full 35.7% of Manitou Springs' points, marking the third time in a row she's earned more than a third of the team's points. Cassidy Blechman was another key contributor, scoring two points along with seven rebounds and two steals.

Multiple players turned in solid performances to lead Ellicott to victory, but perhaps none more so than Kassiah Ducworth, who dropped a double-double on 11 points and 11 rebounds. Ducworth is absolutely dominating the steal category: she's posted at least two every time she's taken the court this season. The team also got some help courtesy of Nova Erickson, who scored eight points along with ten rebounds and two blocks.

Manitou Springs has traveled a rocky road recently, as they've lost four of their last five games, which put a noticeable dent in their 4-8 record this season. As for Ellicott, the victory makes it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 5-7.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Manitou Springs will take on The Vanguard School at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. As for Ellicott, they the luxury of staying home another game and will welcome Banning Lewis Academy at 6:00 p.m. on January 23rd. Banning Lewis Academy is coming into the match hot, having won their last three games.