Basketball Recap: Thomas More Prep-Marian Takes a Loss

Thomas More Prep-Marian fought the good fight in their overtime game against Oakley on Monday but wound up with a less-than-desirable result. They fell to the Oakley Plainsmen 55-49. While losing is never fun, the Monarchs can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Kansas basketball rankings (they are ranked 137th, while the Plainsmen are ranked 47th).

Oakley's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Jade Beckman led the charge by dropping a double-double with 15 points and ten rebounds. Beckman is also crushing it when it comes to steals: she's grabbed at least four every time she's taken the court this season. Chesney Marshall was another key player, going 7-for-12 to rack up 18 points and five boards.

Thomas More Prep-Marian has traveled a rocky road recently having lost three of their last four matchups, which has put a noticeable dent in their 11-9 record this season. That patch can't be blamed on the team's offensive performance across that stretch, as they averaged 52.0 points over those games. As for Oakley, the win made it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 14-5.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Thomas More Prep-Marian will host Norton at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. As for Oakley, they will welcome Cheylin at 6:00 p.m. on Friday.