Defense Leads Triton Women to 6-1 Start

Leading the country in points per game allowed (46.0), opponent shooting percentage (29.0%), and receiving votes in the NJCAA national rankings, the Triton Women under first year head coach, Graham McFall, are off to a fast 6-1 start. 

"It's been great to see the bond and the buy in from our group. We've really played together with lots of unselfish play," said McFall. "Our identity starts on the defensive end and we're continuing to take pride in that and work to get better every day."

After dropping their season opener to Lincoln Land, the Tritons picked up a road win over Lewis & Clark before collecting Coach McFall's first home win at Hodges with a 51 point, 83-32 victory over Central Lakes-Brainerd and haven't looked back with wins over Metropolitan, Madison, Sauk Valley (NJCAA DI), and Northeast. 

"After being on the road throughout the preseason and the first two weeks of the regular season, it was great to get inside Hodges Fieldhouse," said McFall. "After picking up our first conference win over Northeast, we're preparing for the tough ICCAC schedule. It's one of the best conferences in the country." 

Leading the way for the Tritons is a newcomer from Mapleton, IA, Trista Ohlmier, with 14.4 ppg, 13.9 rebounds per game, and 13 blocks. Ohlmier scored 32 and pulled down 15 rebounds in the conference victory over Northeast. Red-shirt freshman, Shakani Murray, is averaging 11.5 ppg, 4.8 rebounds per game, and leads the Tritons with 25 assists. Sophomore, Ashlin Jacobsen has 18 assists and 10 steals to go with 7.3 ppg, while fellow sophomore, MacKenna Bush is shooting over 37% from 3PT and is averaging 8.0 ppg. 

"Trista Ohlmeier has done a great job making her impact felt in multiple areas, whether she's having a big offensive night or not." McFall said on Olhmier's hot start. "It's been great to see our offensive balance so far this year. In almost every game we've had someone different step up for us."

Up next for the Tritons is a conference matchup on Wednesday (12/3) with Southeastern. Tip is scheduled for 5:30 PM at Hodges Fieldhouse.