UPDATE: The Ridgewater Warriors men’s and women’s basketball teams delivered electrifying performances on December 1, 2023, sweeping their opponents, the Mesabi Range, in a high-stakes doubleheader at Willmar.
The men’s team secured a nail-biting 97-94 victory, with four starters scoring in double figures. This win marks a crucial rebound for the Warriors, who are now 8-2 and ranked among the NJCAA Division III teams receiving votes. The Warriors showcased their offensive prowess, outscoring Mesabi Range, which fell to 3-6 this season.
Leading the charge for Ridgewater, DeAndre Holloway, a 6-foot-7 sophomore forward from Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg, dominated the court, achieving a career-high of 23 points and 12 rebounds. This marks Holloway’s eighth double-double of the season, elevating his average to 18.6 points and 11.6 rebounds per game.
Freshman guard Brenton McKinney, hailing from Lake Region High School in Florida, impressed with a career-best 22 points, shooting 7 of 14 from the field and converting 6 of 10 free throws. Additional contributions came from Tyrese Mayo with 14 points and Connor Whittet adding 10 points.
On the opposing side, Reggie Adams led Mesabi Range with a game-high 26 points, supported by Tahje Johnson who chipped in 21 points.
The women’s team also triumphed with an impressive 87-69 victory. Freshman guard/forward Madison Norsten tied her career-high with 27 points, including 9 of 10 from the free-throw line, while also sinking 4 three-pointers.
Sophomore guard Julia Hines caught fire, contributing her career-best of 23 points with exceptional shooting from beyond the arc at 7 of 12. Freshman Charlize Arcoren added 18 points, showcasing the depth of talent on the Warriors roster.
This doubleheader victory not only boosts the morale for both teams but also sets the stage for their upcoming match against Minnesota North College-Vermilion. The men’s team will host them at 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, while the women’s team will face off at 1 p.m..
Fans and supporters can look forward to more thrilling action as the Warriors aim to build on this momentum. Stay tuned for updates on their performance and standings in the league.
