The Ocelots’ last two games were far from easy and unfortunately, the team’s first two losses of the season occurred. While the results were not what we hoped for, there are valuable lessons to be drawn from these matchups. Both are high-level opponents who will be fighting at the top of the standings, and we will face them again for rematches in February.

01/21
Schoolcraft – 87
Oakland Community College -100

The #17 ranked Oakland Community College (OCC) suffered their first loss the season before facing Schoolcraft. on Jan. 21 By imposing an accelerated pace, the Owls managed to build a considerable lead during the first half, wasting very few offensive opportunities.

Meanwhile, the Ocelots tried to close the gap but relied on instinctual decisions, which led to missed points, particularly in three-point attempts. The first half ended with a 17-point lead for the hosts.

In the second half, the Ocelots once again showed their resilience and came back strong. By applying defensive pressure to force turnovers and finding more offensive efficiency, they managed to chip away at the lead. In the second-half scoring alone, the Ocelots outscored Oakland 55-51, but the Owls effectively managed the cushion they built early on to secure the victory.

Offensive standout for the Ocelots was Amir Perryman, who scored 18 points. Unfortunately, the three-point shooting was not at its best, finishing with 37.1% efficiency. On defense, J’Vohn Walker contributed 8 rebounds. This was certainly a game where the Ocelots struggled to impose their game in the offensive paint; out of Oakland’s 40 total rebounds, 31 were defensive, neutralizing many of Schoolcraft’s second-chance opportunities.

01/24
Henry Ford Community College – 69
Schoolcraft- 67

Following the setback against OCC, the Ocelots returned to the court on Saturday to face a solid Henry Ford team at home, a squad that consistently contends for playoff spots.

Unlike Wednesday’s game, the Ocelots started sharp and with a high intensity, dictating the tempo and neutralizing Henry Ford’s offense to finish the first half leading 38-25.

Unfortunately, the momentum shifted in the second half. The Hawks returned with adjustments and, through highly effective three-point shooting, regained the lead. Heading into the final stretch with the advantage, the Hawks tried to play a mental game against the Ocelots but faltered in their late offensive possessions, giving Schoolcraft the chance to get back into the game and close the gap. 

With only seconds remaining and trailing by two after the Hawks missed two free throws, the Ocelots attempted to break through the Henry Ford defense. As the buzzer sounded, J’Vohn Walker put up a three-pointer that hit the rim and bounced out, ending the game at 69-67 for the Hawks.

Tyler Robinson and J’Vohn Walker found a strong balance between offensive and defensive contributions, finishing with 13 points and 9 rebounds, and 18 points and 6 rebounds, respectively.

Upcoming Games 

The Ocelots now hold an overall record of 16-3 (3-2 in the conference) and will look to get back on the winning track with two away games. They face Jackson College (0-5) on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., followed by a matchup against St. Clair County Community College (2-2) on Saturday at 3:00 p.m.