Cyclones women's bball done in playoffs, forecast bright for next season

It wasn’t the kind of season they wanted, but the Cyclones women's basketball team played an over .500 season with a group of players determined to return next season with lessons learned and stronger skills.

After a 30-game season, you are who you are, said head coach Delwyn Jones, who finished his 13th-year at the helm. Overall the Cyclones were 17-13 and were fourth in the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference with a 7-7 record. “We had a decent year. It was a down season for us though because we didn’t win over 20 games. Our record is what it is; we lost 13 but won 17. Some teams we beat are saying the same thing as us. When you play 30 games, you are what you are,” Jones said.

The Cyclones screeched to a half in the NJCAA Region IV quarter finals in a 63-59 loss to Morton College, which they split wins with this season. In Jones’ tenure, this was the first time since 2002 that the Cyclones have lost in the first round of playoffs.

“It was disappointing because I expected to win that last game. But there were some things we preached all year that haunted us as far as expectations were concerned. There were a lot of mistakes, fouls down the stretch, and that hurt us,” Jones said. “People said we should have been this or that, but we are who our record is.”

Disappointment aside, several players made an impact on the court. Stephanie Karl (Lockport) was one of the best point guards Jones has had on the team. Her smarts during games were invaluable, earning her a nod to the All-Conference first team. Bridget Niemiec (Oak Lawn) was a workhouse who also played smart ball. Kelly Foley (Oak Lawn) averaged 14 points per game and was the leading scorer, in addition to being named to the All-Conference first team. Shaneka Boyd (Rich South) was quite an athlete, keeping Moraine Valley in many games with her defense and rebounds.

The freshmen who intend on returning next season have high character and learned from this year’s mistakes with the knowledge of what needs to be done to improve, Jones said. Katie McGann (Providence), who was named to the All-Conference second team, was an underrated player this season, but demonstrated strength around the basket. Maggie Yandel (Stagg) knew how to put the pressure on and was one of the most athletic players on the team. Ashley Cunningham (Eisenhower) used her high basketball IQ and will be an asset next year. Jamilla Jones (Eisenhower) was the leading rebounder while Camille Byrd (Harlan) was a quick forward. Amber Hunter (Evergreen Park) should return even stronger next season at center.

“We will win 20 games next year, guaranteed, if we stay healthy and keep the core back from this year,” Jones said. “We’ll win 20 and hopefully go further. Any good recruits, and we’ll be dangerous.”