Lewiston, Idaho- A great season comes to an end inside the confines of Lewis & Clark State's gym as Menlo Women's Basketball falls to Rocky Mountain 68-62. It was a close game throughout with the largest lead never exceeding 10 points. Despite the loss Menlo finishes the year with plenty to be proud of. The Oaks wrapped up the regular season 21-9, finished as runner ups in the GSAC Tournament, had two players named to the All-Conference team and finished the final 20 games of the season with a 16-4 record. 

Defense Keeps the Oaks In It
Menlo's offense had a hard time finding a rhythm but the defense did keep them in the game throughout. Menlo forced 22 turnovers, came up with 11 steals and pulled down 12 offensive boards. Individually, Kiara Brown and Nura Galmes combined for eight steals. Galmes in particular had five takeaways in the first half. Those steals would lead to 28 points off of turnovers.

Looking Ahead
It wasn't the end Oaks fans were hoping for but the future looks bright. Coach Spataro will return three starters from this year. Brown, alongside Jordyn Rosette & Nura Galmes, return next season. Brown was the team leader in scoring and rebounding. Rosette was one of the top defensive players for the year averaging three steals a game alongside a block. On top of the starters, second unit mainstays Jasmyne Huggins and Alberte Frisch are back as well. Frisch chipped in 16 points in tonight's loss. Lastly, Shay Boley & Tia Morgan figure to be in the rotation. Boley spent the year as a redshirt while Morgan was injured early.

Thank You
Losing is never easy but the entire Menlo community is thankful for a great season from coach Spataro, coach Rogers and the players. The year was filled with memorable moments such as handing Westmont their first loss of the season, going on a nine game win streak and making a great run through the conference tournament. Without a doubt the Oaks will be back and look to pick up right where they left off.