In an intense and closely contested game, the Clark College Penguins faced a narrow 69-66 defeat at the hands of South Puget Sound at SPSCC on Saturday afternoon. Despite their valiant effort, Clark's balanced attack and tenacious defense weren't enough to overcome the Clippers' early lead and consistent play.

The Penguins showcased a resilient team performance, led by standout Emily Peabody, who poured in a game-high 21 points while grabbing six rebounds. Peabody's fourth-quarter efforts nearly propelled Clark to a comeback, as she contributed 8 points in the final period, demonstrating her leadership on the court.

Mia Hicks-Oliver also delivered a strong performance with 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists, consistently pushing the pace and attacking the paint. Meanwhile, Jayda Jackson added 8 points and 5 rebounds, showing her versatility on both ends of the floor.

Clark's defense created numerous opportunities, recording 14 steals and forcing South Puget Sound into 19 turnovers. TT Gaopoa spearheaded the defensive effort with a game-high 5 steals. However, the Penguins struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 7.1% from three-point range, which proved to be a critical factor in the tight contest.

South Puget Sound capitalized on their second-chance opportunities, out-rebounding Clark 45-34, including 18 offensive boards. The Clippers' Jaynee Tanner and Taylor Teeple were pivotal, combining for 28 rebounds and 27 points.

After falling behind by as many as 11 points in the first quarter, Clark steadily chipped away at the deficit. The Penguins took their only lead of the game early in the third quarter, but South Puget Sound responded with key baskets to regain control.

The Penguins will look to bounce back as they prepare for their next matchup, aiming to build on their defensive tenacity and improve their efficiency on offense. Despite the loss, the close contest highlighted the team's determination and potential as they continue their season.

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