Sophomore Night Success in Front of Family and Friends
Sophomore night is always a special occasion around the state of California, recognizing the hard work and commitment of those who have invested their time into their respective programs. As for the Falcons, this group of sophomores deserves so much praise for what they have done for Folsom Lake College and their community. After an up and down season last year persevering through tough losses and Covid-19 protocols, the Falcons ended up winning a home playoff game but ultimately losing in the second round. The resilient returning seven (and one redshirt) spent March-September working on their craft and setting themselves up for a historic 2022-23 season.
They have not disappointed.
Through 27 games, the Falcons are 22-5 (best record in program history, and counting). That is an astounding 15-game win improvement. There is still more history to be made.
In the last week of regular season games, FLC hosted Sacramento City College 1-22 (0-14). The pregame ceremony highlighted sophomores Macie Purbaugh, Jessica Huffhines, Daily Applegarth, Reya Lee, Jada Holmes, Eva Graf, and Megan Williams. After balloons, gifts, and hugs were exchanged it was gametime.
The Falcons started off hot, going up 14-3. After both teams settled down, the Panthers pounced back with a couple of big threes to only trail 17-13 after the first quarter. The second quarter was played evenly as the Falcons turned the ball over uncharacteristically, resulting in a 30-26 lead going into halftime.
With the jitters out and a newfound desire to defend, FLC came out ready to go adding a trapping defense that led to easy transition points. This created a comfortable 46-35 heading into the fourth quarter.
But the fans came for a show! And a show they got. Everyone contributed for the Falcons, forcing turnovers and easy buckets as they took control over the game, winning 65-45 in front of the home crowd.
It was time for the sophomores to shine as Eva Graf grabbed 10 rebounds, while contributing 5 points and 3 steals. Macie Purbaugh stayed true to her point guard prowess dishing out 8 assists while attacking the basket for 8 points. Megan Williams had a solid night scoring 8 points, grabbing 6 rebounds, and protecting the rim with 5 blocks. Daily Applegarth grabbed 6 rebounds and hit one 3-pointer. Jessica Huffhines hit two 3-pointers. Jada Holmes provided a spark off the bench playing great defense and grabbing 3 rebounds. Reya Lee unfortunately battled through injury early but will be back ready to go next game.
The freshmen also wanted to show their skills as Alysa Lopez continued her scoring surge leading all scorers with 18 points, while also contributing 5 rebounds and 3 blocks. Eva Graf's Cordova High School partner in crime Corrie Harrison was right behind her with 9 points and 8 rebounds. Ashleigh Briggs had a tough and-one late to put a cherry on top to end the game. Lastly Emily Ko, known for her defensive expertise, dished out 6 assists and tallied 5 rebounds.
#13 Folsom Lake College 22-5 (12-3) will travel to cross-town rival Sierra College 16-11 (10-5) in hopes of a series sweep on Thursday, 2/16 at 5:30pm in what should be an exhilarating final game of the season.
Playoff seedings will be announced on Sunday, 2/19.