Pioneers fall to Roane State Raiders 66-52
SMC looked to open the season on a high note Tuesday night against the Raiders of Roane State CC, Tn. However a cold shooting night and a stingy Raider defense wouldn't allow the Pioneers a shot at a opening win.
Both teams began the game slow on the offensive end but the Raiders were able to ride some strong three point shooting and their tough half court defense to take a 34-21 lead at the half.
The second half started well for the Pioneers with three quick baskets but back to back three pointers by Roane State quickly extended the lead back to a comfortable double digit margin. SMC would not go away and continued to cut into the lead but 35% shooting from the floor and a dismal 8-22 at the free throw line hurt any chance the Pioneers had of mustering a comeback.
SMC was led in scoring by Mario Pendarvis (16), David Lighty (10), Ronell Crockett (6), Jalen Nesbitt (4), Travis Black (4), Kelsey Terry (4), Terrell Magazine (4), D'ondrae Houser (4
"We did not shoot the ball well at all tonight said Head Coach Jeff Brookman. The main contributor of the low shooting percentage was due to Roane States pressure defense. Give them a ton of credit, they are a good ball club and played well tonight." We just left way too many points at the free throw line and had too many lapses in our defense and it allowed their shooters wide open looks and they knocked them down."
"We played hard and didn't let down when we got behind early and that I am proud of, we just have to play better and we'll get there." This was a very good test for us on opening night. We will study the film of tonights game, learn from our mistakes and work to get better everyday."
The Pioneers must rebound quickly from tonights opening loss as they host Emmanuel College on Wednesday night at 8:00pm
During half time of Wednesday nights game- SMC will honor the Men's and Women's Soccer teams. Both won their Region X Tournament Championships this past Sunday and play for the District Championship on Saturday.
