In an impressive showcase of dominance, the Oakland women’s basketball team got the win over Cleary University by a commanding score of 95-51.
The game started off tight, with everything tied at 10-10 with 4:21 remaining in the first quarter. Senior guard Macy Smith quickly answered the call with a triple, and from that point on, she was unstoppable.
Oakland established its intent to control the game. With a blend of aggressive defense and fast-paced offense set up by Maddy Skorupski, the Golden Grizzlies built their lead. Their relentless pressure forced multiple turnovers from Cleary, which the team converted into easy baskets. The first two quarters set the tone as Oakland outscored Cleary 53-32, leaving little doubt about their superiority on the court.
Coming back in from intermission, it was the same story. The Golden Grizzlies kept finding ways to win and went on a 15-0 run that further electrified the home crowd. Any attempt made to regroup by Cleary was disrupted. Oakland’s ability to maintain a high level of energy and focus was a key factor in their victory.
The game’s standout performance came from Smith, who lit up the scoreboard and delivered a dazzling display, going 6-10 from three and 8 of 12 from the field. She finished with a remarkable 23 points and achieved her career high.
Each shot Smith made seemed to build on the last, proving her confidence and skill.
“I think just the confidence, not only my teammates but my coaches have for me, too. I always tell myself, keep shooting. If you see one miss, I mean, you are going to see more go in, so yeah, I think the confidence that my teammates have in me is everything,” Smith said.
Fans rallied behind every play for what was themed a “School Day” game.
“It was just fun. I feel like we were so excited to play at home, and this atmosphere is crazy. The kids are having fun, so I’m just feeling good,” Smith said.
Contributing alongside Smith was junior guard Maddy Skorupski. She ended with 11 points, three steals, five assists and four rebounds. Forward Madison Royal-Davis also put up 11 points, four rebounds and two timely blocks. Jaidyn Elam scored 10 points.
“We made shots. I’m a much smarter coach when the ball goes in. We were 0 for 18 from the three against Michigan State. Today, the ball went in,” head coach Jeff Tungate said. “You know, it shouldn’t be this way, but your defense is better when you’re making shots, and that shouldn’t be the case, but it is, and so when we make shots, it makes a difference.”
Although they did some fine-tuning, Tungate appreciated how his squad came together.
“We tweaked our zone a little bit that we were playing a lot of, and then man to man, we mainly kept the ball in front and rebounded better. Again, I’m still worried about our rebounding; it’s something we’ve got to address and fix, but all in all, it was a great effort, and again, what an unbelievable atmosphere,” Tungate said. “You know, hopefully, all of these kids come back, and we can keep this going.”
What’s Next?
The Golden Grizzlies will suit up and head to Ann Arbor to face the Michigan Wolverines at the Crisler Center on Sunday, Nov. 17. Tip-off is slated for noon. All the action will be broadcasted live on Big Ten Network.
