Delta College hosts the annual MCCAA Hunger Basketball Game
By Emma Blakley
After a steep time change, Delta College’s basketball teams walked onto the court for their second to last home game of the season.
Wednesday, Feb. 12 Delta College men’s and women’s teams took on the Mid Michigan College Lakers for the annual Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA) Hunger Basketball Game. Because of the weather, both teams moved up their starting times by three hours. The women’s team started at 2:30 p.m. and the men followed at 4:30 p.m.
The MCCAA holds a competition between the conference’s basketball teams to see who can collect the most cans for their food pantries each year. Delta has been looking at opening the event to other sports.
The can drive was throughout the week. “We sent [an email] to faculty, staff, anybody on campus could come in and bring in [cans]” Delta Athletic Director Brad Barlog said.
Those attending the basketball game had the opportunity to bring in five cans in return for admission to both games.
“[This year was] an overall success,” Barlog said. “We had better cans this year compared to last year.”
Delta College has its very own food pantry located in D102. A reservation is required before pickup.
“Hunger is right in our backyard,” Barlog said. “Not [being] afraid to go get help is huge.”
The women’s team lost in an unfortunate fashion being taken down 89-51.
Kayla Howell scored a total of 19 points for her team. Hailee Jefferson had 10 rebounds, Amari’A Campbell followed behind with 9, and Ja’Leeah Griggs with 8.
The men’s team played a tough game against the Lakers, but ultimately lost 98-93.
Willie Humphery was able to score 21 points, Derrik Campell following behind with 15 points, and Brendon Schlink and Jayden Hackett securing 13 points each.
Schlink, Evan Booker, and Ja’Vion Blackwell led the team with three assists apiece, while four others had two assists.
Humphrey registered 12 rebounds, Schlink had six, and Campbell had five.
