Glenbrook South downs Grant for 3rd straight win
Glenbrook South's girls basketball team continued its hot start to the season by winning its third game in three nights with a 60-38 victory over Grant in the Mundelein Girls Thanksgiving Tournament on Wednesday night.
The Titans pulled together a number of bench players that helped their starters with a strong effort late in the third quarter and in the final 8 minutes.
Glenbrook South had played in the main gym for its first two games and was in the north gym for its matchup against Grant (1-2)
"It was a different background, maybe the rim was a bit tight, along with the lighting," Glenbrook South coach Scott Nemecek said. "I just think we got tired pressing and it might have affected us offensively a little bit. So, my assistant coach (Ariana Mazza-Bensyl) recommended that we should play a half-court defense for a while. We were able to dig in and it was a good suggestion. The girls did a good job of getting good rebounds."
Grant closed to within 6 points at 35-29 with 3:50 left in the third quarter. But the Titans went on an 11-2 run and led 46-31 heading into the final quarter.
"I thought our bench did a tremendous job," Nemecek said. "I still thought the starters did a nice job. Grant has a nice team over there. I thought our effort was outstanding."
Glenbrook South outscored Grant 14-7 over the last 8 minutes.
Sophomore Anna Rosenberger led the way for the Titans with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocked shots. Molly Durrow added 11 points off the bench, while Sidney Rogers and Chloe Gonzalez added 10 points apiece.
"I think the team really works well together and it's a lot easier to set up plays," Rosenberger said. "I think our energy gets us going and it helps us a lot."
Grant was right with Glenbrook South in the first half and trailed 29-20 at the break before starting the third quarter with a bit of a run.
"I thought we played really tough and I'm really proud of the girls," Grant coach Anna Bartels said.
"We knew (Glenbrook South) when we came in and saw them a little bit the other day, so we expected it to be tough. We were in the game, made a strong run and cut the lead down. But then it got away from us again. (Glenbrook South) was a tough team with some good outside shooters and it was a learning experience."
Four-year starter MaCalyn Flores led the Bulldogs with 12 points and 5 rebounds.