Young Eagles Team Searches For Rhythm  

By Jon Crossman

ANKENY, Iowa—On a young team, there are bound to be some hiccups in the growth process, as evident in a pair of losses to start the season on the Eagles' home turf. A pair of losses in the Faith Classic came on the heels of a prominent victory against Union just a few days prior, showcasing the great potential the Eagles still have to look forward to despite the minor bump in the road. 

The Eagles' offense was on the rise throughout both games, already showing increases from the scoring average of the previous season (55.7 PPG now vs 50.8 PPG last season). Mikayla Jones lit up the scoreboard in her first big game with the Eagles, dropping 26 points against Trinity on nearly 50% shooting. Rachel Kleczka followed up with her first double-double of many to come, taking it to the Lions in the paint with 11 points and 12 rebounds. Three Eagles made it to double digits in the second game against North Central, with Makenna Laib adding 14 points to another stellar performance from both Kleczka (12) and Jones (12). 

In the two games against difficult opponents, the Eagles rebounded well, chalking up 59 total rebounds throughout the weekend. Rachel Kleczka claimed 21 of the rebounds, starting her bid for top defender of the year early. Makayla Jones displayed her quick hands with five steals, and Makenna Laib followed close behind with four of her own.

Kayla Stephens bagged her first collegiate points in a big game Friday night, knocking down a few shots for nine points and a big three-pointer. Belle Wirges bagged her first points as well, getting a good look for a mid-range shot in the game against Trinity.   

The Eagles look ahead to their next game with very little downtime from the weekend, going up against Free Lutheran Bible College on Monday, November 21. Both teams share the same record so far on the season, with Free Lutheran coming off of a win on Saturday. The game takes place at 4 p.m. in Plymouth, Minnesota.