OLYMPIA, Wash. — Clark College put together a gritty, resilient performance on Saturday afternoon, surging offensively in the middle quarters and showcasing standout individual efforts, but ultimately came up short in a 61–53 road loss to South Puget Sound.
After a difficult opening period that saw Clark score just five points, the Penguins responded with energy and execution, pouring in 19 second-quarter points and clawing back into the contest. The momentum carried into the third, where Clark outscored SPSCC, trimming the gap and setting up a tense final frame.
Mia Hicks-Oliver delivered the best scoring performances of the day, leading Clark with 21 points, including three made threes, and tallying four steals while playing 36 minutes. She sparked the Penguins' second- and third-quarter surges, hitting rhythm jumpers and pushing transition opportunities.
Matching her offensively was Emily Peabody, who turned in a dominant two-way performance with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Peabody's work on the glass kept Clark competitive throughout—five of her rebounds came on the offensive end—and her efficiency inside (8-for-18 shooting) helped stabilize the offense when the Penguins needed it most.
Clark also benefited from a relentless effort by Reaiah Hall, who battled her way to 10 rebounds, including an impressive six offensive boards. April Cruz chipped in eight points and three steals, while Yazmin Rios and Rakyah Clayton each added defensive sparks, combining for six steals.
Defensively, Clark forced 27 SPSCC turnovers, turning those mistakes into 13 points—a key reason the Penguins hung around despite shooting challenges. The Penguins also collected 16 steals, demonstrating a persistent, disruptive defensive identity.
Ultimately, South Puget Sound's rebounding advantage (47–33) and timely three-point shooting proved to be the difference, allowing the Clippers to withstand Clark's mid-game surge.
Despite the loss, Clark showed clear growth, improved rhythm on offense, and toughness on the boards—positive signs as the Penguins continue building early in the season. They return to action next week seeking to turn the corner and secure their first win.
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