2008-2009 Warrior Journal

November 9, 2008

We have been very busy in the short time since my last entry!  We came out on top in our home opener against Warner Pacific University and it was a great way to start the season.  It was exciting to watch our freshmen compete in their first college game with the poise and confidence of veterans.  Nikki, our junior college transfer, controlled the game as starting point guard and established herself as an offensive threat.  As for our returners, it felt like we picked up right where we left off last spring—everyone working hard and giving their all for the team.  The following day, we traveled to Boise State University to challenge the Broncos.  Although we were defeated by 12 points, there were many small victories and shining moments over the course of the game that provided us with a foundation to work from. 

It is tough to play on the road.  New players are forewarned and prepared for the strain of our grueling travel schedule but the first big trip we make always seems to be an eye-opener.  We flew down to California last year at this time and lost two games back to back, returning home bruised, battered, and feeling empty-handed.  That being said, there was definitely some pressure when we took the floor Friday afternoon to play Biola University.  Unfortunately, it wasn’t our day, and we could not match their aggressive attack, strength, or push them out far enough to get a rebound.  We lost by 11, but not without staging a tremendous comeback which brought us within five points. Even with the frustration of losing, we vowed to learn from our mistakes and started looking ahead to our game the next day, against Hope International University.  With a better rebounding effort and solid team play, combined with scoring in transition and communication we were able to defeat Hope 92-47.

Some of my favorite moments from the trip came from the adventures after our games.  On Friday night most of us jumped in the van and drove to the pier in Santa Monica.  There was a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and little shops all along the pier.  We took pictures by the ocean and even got to shop a little bit!  On Saturday, we drove to Hollywood and stargazed, taking in all the glamorous stores, homes, and people.  We didn’t see Paris Hilton, much to Jasmine’s dismay, but it was still a great time.  It is always nice to relax and bond with teammates off the court, developing those friendships that will last us a lifetime.

Looking ahead, we have yet another road trip next weekend.  We are headed to my hometown of Bellingham in northwest Washington and I could not be more excited!  We get to compete against two very tough NCAA Division II teams and test the caliber and character of our team even more.  One thing is for certain, for this team, the best is yet to come!