Lady Sharks Stumble Into The Season

Miami Dade College’s women’s basketball team is off to a lackluster start this season, winning only two of 12 games.

The Miami Dade College women’s basketball team (2-10) is off to a rocky start. Sophomore forward Ashley Wilkes said a lack of leadership and patience during the second half of games is to blame for the team’s struggles.

“We cannot let this rough start define [us] because we can bounce back from it,” Wilkes said.

The Lady Sharks have lost twice to Daytona State College. The team is averaging 30 percent shooting from the field and 22 % from the three-point line.

Sophomore guard Camila Mejia said that part of the problem is that the team is not responding well to in-game adjustments made by Head Coach Susan Summons.

“[We] have no communication,” Mejia said. “We’ve gotten tired, lazy and we’re not listening to the coach.”

Summons said in order to turn it around, changes must be made.

“This team has the talent, pieces and the ability, but they must be mentally and physically committed to the hard work and effort it will take every night to realize their goal of a Southern Conference Championship,” Summons said. “Finding that right combination engages consistency, which in turn helps to develop a rhythm, [that’s] something we lack.”

Defensively, the Lady Sharks are allowing an average of 69 points per game according to the Florida Community College Athletic Association. Wilkes said she vows to become a better leader and be more focused on and off the basketball court.

“This team needs me and some other people to step up if we are going to get out of this slump,” Wilkes said.

Despite the rough start, Summons believes the team can get back on track.

“Teams can start off 7-0; [Chemistry] is the intangible that helps to make a team strong and prepared for conference play,” Summons said. “This is all a part of the process and journey.”