On Saturday night the Lady Cannoneerstipped off the 2016-17 season in a matchup with Northampton Community College from Region XIX. Jefferson jumped out to an early lead that lasted through the first several minutes of the 2nd quarter. Kali Eyles led the way with 6 early points, while sophomore guards Riley Luckie, and Courtney Bova knocked down early 3 point baskets. Throughout the 2nd quarter Northampton chipped away at the Jefferson lead, with a fury of foul calls at both ends amidst a very physical first half Northampton found themselves with a 1 point halftime lead. Jefferson fought back halfway through the 3rd quarter to draw even at 31 apiece, but couldn't get over the hump for the remainder of the game. The Northampton lead bounced between 2-5 points for the majority of the 2nd half. After some situational pressing, and fouls the Lady Cannoneer's came up short in the out of region matchup with Northampton. Sophomore forward Kali Eyles led the way with 13 points and 12 rebounds, Riley Luckie and Marisa Clark each chipped in 13 and 10 points respectively.
With a quick turnaround from Saturday night, The Lady Cannoneers found themselves in a rivalry matchup with Region III foe North Country Community College. A matchup between two of Region III's most completive teams, and a matchup that has become a healthy rivalry the last 3 years. Each of the last two years North Country and Jefferson have split their matchups with each team winning by no more than 3 points in each game. Sunday's consolation matchup of the Torchia Classic saw The Lady Cannoneer's jump out to an early 11-2 lead halfway through the first quarter. It was a sophomore outburst to start the game, Kali Eyles, Susie Morrow, Courtney Bova, and Riley Luckie led the offensive charge each tallying multiple baskets to start the contest. Jefferson ended the 1st quarter with a healthy 20-6 lead. The Lady Cannoneer's withstood an early 2nd quarter rally from North Country who cut the lead to 20-12 on three quick baskets. The Lady Cannoneer's answered the charge with 4 consecutive baskets from Sophomore Riley Luckie, Kali Eyles, Susie Morrow, and Marisa Clark. Jefferson managed to control the pace of play, and rebound the ball throughout the second half, to finish the game with a 66-40 victory. The Lady Cannoneer's finished their opening weekend on a high note, and head in to a week of practice for two Region III matchups next weekend at home with Adirondack CC, and Hudson Valley CC. Kali Eyles was voted to the Torchia Classic All-Tournament team notching her first double-double of the year, and averaging 15 points, and 9.5 rebounds per game.
