Raymond Hoare
Student Sports Media
The Butler Grizzlies started their season in Sedalia, Missouri at the McDonald’s Classic at State Fair Community College. Butler started out the year at No. 18 in the NJCAA preseason poll. The Grizzlies’ opening game pinned them against the Division II No. 2 team, the Kirkwood Eagles.
The Grizzlies fell to the Kirkwood Eagles, 67-59. Despite the lost, sophomore guard Ravon Nero had a great debut with the Grizzlies as she ended the night with 20 points, 10 rebounds, earning herself a double-double. Freshman guard Zayda Perez made her presence known from the stripe, ended the night perfect from the free throw line (8-8).
On day two of the McDonald’s Classic, the Butler Grizzlies took on the hosting State Fair Roadrunners. The Grizzlies bounced back after their lost to Kirkwood, responding with a 91-65 win.
Head Coach Mike Helmer joined the 250 club as the game was his 250th career win with the Grizzlies.
Various Grizzlies made an emphasis as sophomore guard Camille Downs recorded a double-double as she scored 22 points, 11 rebounds and five steals on the night. Freshman forward Tamara Nard made herself known, scoring 19 points, with six rebounds and two steals. Freshman forward Maddy Willis-Rosa impressed with 15 points, six rebounds and three steals. Lastly, continuing her perfect streak, Perez remained perfect from the free throw line with four points.
The Grizzlies continued with significant road trips after their first home game of the season on Tuesday, Nov. 5 when they defeated Bethany College JV, 88-38. After the home game, the Grizzlies traveled to Midland, Texas for the Midland Classic from Thursday, Nov. 7 through Saturday, Nov. 9, taking on Jacksonville College, Midland College and Air Force Prep.
