McKenzie’s 1,000th career point not enough for Broncs
By Carlos Toro
Despite a disappointing 0-2 start for women’s basketball, one major accomplishment has already been reached. Senior guard MyNeshia McKenzie reached 1,000 career points at Rider in the Nov. 8 opening game of the season against Lafayette (2-0), which the Broncs lost 67-62.
McKenzie’s achievement came early in the first half with 15:40 left.
“It means a lot to me to reach that milestone,” McKenzie said. “My teammates and coaches put me in the position to receive these points, so overall this is a great accomplishment not only for myself, but this team as well.”
Down by 11 points, with about four minutes left in the game, Rider came back with a 12-2 run, but could not close the gap.
Sophomore guard Mikal Johnson, who finished with 10 points, missed a game-tying three pointer with seven seconds remaining. Lafayette grabbed the ensuing rebound to secure the win.
McKenzie had a career-high 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds.
The Broncs could not dwell on the loss for too long because they faced another tough road matchup against Seton Hall on Nov. 10.
Seton Hall (2-0) provided a unique challenge for Rider, as it comes from the Big East, one of the nation’s top conferences.
The Broncs hung on for most of the game, even going as far as being tied with the Pirates with about five minutes left. However, the Broncs could not secure the victory.
Rider struggled from the free throw line in the first game, shooting 11-20 against Lafayette, and that continued Nov. 10 against Seton Hall, going 13-21 from the charity stripe.
McKenzie had her 28th career double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Junior guard Emily Fazzini added 13 points, while junior guard Lashay Banks had 12 points.
Even with two losses on the road to start the season, Head Coach Lynn Milligan was not discouraged and believes the team is ready to play its first home game against LIU Brooklyn on Nov. 14.
“This team is hungry every day,” Milligan said. “The home opener is always a special game. Based on this weekend’s results we will be ready for Thursday and are excited to play in front of our fans.”
