Kenosha, Wis. – Parkside closed out the regular season in dominant fashion, rolling past Michigan Tech 72-56 on Saturday afternoon at De Simone Arena. The Rangers played in front of a loud and energetic home crowd and fed off the crowd's energy. The win finalized the Rangers' record at 18-9 overall and 13-7 in GLIAC play.
Inside the Box Score:
- Chloe Van Zeeland posted another monster performance at home, notching a 24-point, 12-rebound double-double.
- Lillie Petersen helped Parkside to the victory, netting a 14-point, 13-rebound double-double. She was an incredible four-of-five from beyond the arc.
- Despite playing only 23 minutes due to foul trouble, Cassidy Arni managed to score 13 points on six-of-nine shooting.
How It Happened:
The game started as a close battle, with Michigan Tech jumping out to an early lead behind a strong first quarter, shooting 53.8% from the field. However, Parkside quickly responded in the second frame, locking down defensively and holding the Huskies to just eight points, their best defensive quarter of the game. Cassidy Arni began a solid night contributing in the first half. An 18-point quarter of their own gave the Rangers a 34-28 advantage heading into halftime. Van Zeeland fed off the electric atmosphere and finished the first half with 15 points.
The third quarter proved to be the turning point as Parkside took full control, outscoring Michigan Tech 27-18. Van Zeeland led the charge, pouring in 24 points on 10-of-13 shooting while grabbing 12 rebounds for a double-double. Lillie Petersen added a double-double of her own with 14 points and 13 boards, providing a strong presence on both ends of the floor. Parkside built a lead as large as 18 in the third quarter, keeping their foot on the gas.
The Rangers maintained their grip on the game in the final period, holding Michigan Tech to just 10 points to secure the 16-point victory.
Parkside's efficiency proved to be a difference-maker, shooting 44.4% from the field and knocking down 40% of their three-point attempts, while Michigan Tech struggled from deep, hitting just 3-of-16. The Rangers also controlled the boards, outrebounding the Huskies 41-34, including 11 offensive rebounds that led to key second-chance points. Defensively, Parkside forced 15 turnovers and capitalized by converting them into 13 points.
Next:
With the regular season in the books, Wisconsin-Parkside now shifts its focus to the GLIAC Tournament, carrying strong momentum into postseason play. The Rangers will look to extend their season and make the trip to Detroit to take on Wayne State on Wednesday night. For coverage of the event, visit ParksideRangers.com/coverage.
