Varriano Named DAC Player of the Week

Senior Giuli Varriano, Fargo, ND, helped lead the #6 Jimmies to two victories on the road last weekend. Against #25, Giuli scored 19 points, shooting 8-10 from the field. She also grabbed 10 rebounds and added 3 steals. The Jimmies won 78-68. The following day, Giuli scored 13 points and almost reached double digits in rebounds with 9. She also had 2 assists and 1 steal. Giuli helped the Jimmies beat #13 Minot State, 70-54.

The Jimmies followed up their two impressive road wins with another road win on Wednesday night by beating Minnesota Morris, 79-45. The Jimmies had 3 players in double figures led by Kellie Schuneman with 14, Giuli Varriano with 13, and Amanda Rantapaa with 12, all coming from behind the arc. Katie O'Neill chipped in with 9 followed by Allison Epping with 8.

The Jimmies, currently 12-2, are off until they play St. Cloud State on December 21.

Jimmie roll on the road; Beat #25 Dickinson State and #13 Minot State

For the first time in many years, the Jimmies swept a weekend road trip to Dickinson State and Minot State. JC fought back from a 47-32 deficit with 17 minutes left on Friday and out scored the Bluehawks 46-21 to win going away, 78-68. Along the way, the Jimmies held Kia Herbel to no field goals for the first time in her career. Herbel finished with 6 points, all from the line.

JC was solid on both ends of the court down the stretch. JC forced 20 turnovers and held Dickinson to 23% from the field in the second half. JC also gathered in 11 offensive rebounds and added 11 steals. Giuli Varriano led the Jimmies with 19 points and Jimmie posts Cori Doubek and Allison Epping chipped in 12 and 11. Kellie Schuneman and Amanda Rantapaa (pictured) both added 11. Katie O'Neill (pictured) rounded it out with 8.

On day two, the Jimmies continued their hot shooting from the second half of Friday's night game by scoring 44 points at the half while shooting 45.5% from the field. JC had very balanced scoring in the first half and led 44-23 at the half. JC's defense was again very stellar as Minot was extremely cold in the half shooting 16%. Minot did make a few small runs at JC in the second half, but the Jimmies never let the lead go below 13 points. Katie O'Neill led the Jimmies with 17 points, followed by Kellie Schuneman with 14. Giuli Varriano added to her impressive weekend by adding 13 points and 9 rebounds. Allison Epping continued her strong play off the bench with 12 points.

For more on the games, visit: http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/tag/group/Sports/tag/jimmies/

Jimmies polish off Peru State, 92-60

Cori Doubek goes up to score against Peru defenders.

Jamestown College opened the game going 1 of 8 from the 3 point line, but finished hot by going 11-14 and finishing a sparkling 12-22 from beyond the arc. Junior transfer, Krista Shaikoski continued her hot shooting by going 5-8 and sophomore Nicole Ahlers came off the bench to shoot 3-3 from behind the line. Amanda Rantapaa and Kellie Schuneman each knocked two.

The Jimmies depth and speed eventually wore Peru State down as 14 Jimmies played and 11 scored. Senior Ali Edwards saw her first action of the season after joining team following a successful volleyball season. Ali hit both shots and a free throw to finish with 5 points.

JC was led in scoring by Shaikoski's 15 off the bench. Kellie Schuneman followed that up with 13 points and a team high 8 assists. Katie O'Neill and Giuli Varriano rounded out the scoring with 12 and 11.

The Jimmies are off until they travel to Iowa Wesleyan and William Penn next weekend. To read more about the Jimmies, go to: http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/article/id/98968/

Jimmies take care of Presentation College

#6 ranked Jamestown College shook off a sluggish start to their match-up with Presenation, but put together a 24-7 run mid-way through the first half to over power Presenation, 84-46. JC used a balanced first half of scoring with 8 different players scoring to help build the lead. Katie O'Neill got things rolling by scoring 11 points in the first half and Krista Shaikoski (pictured) sparked the Jimmies off the bench by hitting 3 long three pointers to help build on the lead. Giuli Varriano (pictured) also contributed 9 first half points and ended with 14 for the game.

The Jimmies dressed and played 15 players with 12 of them scoring. Freshman Justene Engels had a career high of 8 points off the bench and freshman Amber Ramlo followed that up with a career high of 7 points. The Jimmies are next in action on Friday night verse Peru State, NE.

For more on the game, visit http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/article/id/98744/.

Jimmies split on the road

Jamestown College came home from its trip to Mitchell and Yankton, SD with a split. On Friday, the Jimmies played a near perfect first half while building a 47-25 halftime lead. DWU cut into the Jimmie lead throughout the second half, but the Jimmies had built a big enough cushion to hang for a 72-63 win. The Jimmies were almost perfect from the 3 point line going 7-8 in the first half and connecting on 14-16 from the free throw line. The Jimmies cooled off in the second half from the field, but stayed hot from the free throw line which led to the win. For the game, the Jimmies finished 23-29 from the line. JC was led in scoring and rebounding by Cori Doubek as she recorded her first double double on the season with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Giuli Varriano (11), Amanda Rantapaa (10), and Kellie Schuneman (10) rounded out the scoring.

The following afternoon in a battle of the unbeatens, the Jimmies faced Mt. Marty College. JC jumped out to an early 7-2 lead, but Mt. Marty took control from that point and never turned back. Mt. Marty built their lead to 18 points early in the second half before the Jimmies began chipping away. JC got it as close as 5 points, 56-51 with about 7 minutes remaining, but could get no closer. JC was once again led in scoring by Cori Doubek as she tallied 14 points and 10 rebounds. Katie O'Neill chipped in 12 points. JC struggled from the field going 0-12 from the three point line and only 11-27 from the free throw line in the loss.

For more on the games, go to http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/tag/group/Sports/tag/jimmies/

Jamestown College turns back Dordt, IA

Jamestown College completed a weekend sweep by beating Dordt, IA 65-52 a day after knocking off Northwestern, IA. With the sweep, the Jimmies improved to 4-0 on the young season.
After a slow start and falling behind 7-2, the Jimmies outscored Dordt 26-7 over the next 8 minutes to take a 28-14 lead. But Dordt answered with their own run by out scoring the Jimmies 12-3 to cut the half time lead to 31-26. Jamestown College had trouble finding a consistent offensive rhythm and had a difficult time containing Dordt's Amber Soodsma who ended up scoring 21 points.
The Jimmies used a couple of scoring runs to take a double digit lead early in the second half and never looked back. JC was led in scoring by Amanda Rantapaa's 12 points, all coming from the 3 point line. Cori Doubek (pictured) and Katie O'Neill each chipped in with 10, and Giuli Varriano and Kellie Schuneman (pictured) added 9 each.
The Jimmies return to action with an exhibition at NDSU on Monday night and then head to the road for an important weekend of games at Dakota Wesleyan and Mt. Marty.

For more on the article, visit: http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/article/id/98024/

#6 Jimmies knock off #2 Northwestern University

#6 nationally ranked Jamestown College used a big second half to beat powerhouse Northwestern, IA, 80-63 on Friday night at the Jamestown Civic Center. JC used a balanced scoring attack and their defense forced 23 turnovers and limited the Red Raiders to a 33% percent field goal percentage in the second half.

Senior Katie O'Neill (Pictured) lead the scoring attack by scoring 18 points in the second half to finish with a game high of 23. Junior point guard Kellie Schuneman was also very instrumental in the win by scoring 14 points, including 8-9 from the free throw line. Kellie also added a game high 8 assists. Giuli Varriano finished in double figures with 12 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, and 4 assists.

For more on the story, visit: http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/article/id/97948/

JC Women Ranked 6th in first NAIA Poll

The Jamestown College women's basketball team received 368 points, just 13 behind 5th ranked Shawnee State. The Jimmies return 6 seniors and 3 juniors and are looking to make a run at the DAC Championship and a return trip to Sioux City, IA for the NAIA National Tournament.
Jamestown College will face #2 ranked Northwestern, Iowa on November 6th for a top 10 showdown.
To see the complete rankings, go to : http://naia.cstv.com/sports/w-baskbl-div2/spec-rel/102609aac.html

Jimmies Begin Season With Two Wins

Jamestown College opened the season with a 87-68 victory over Brandon University and followed that up with a 85-58 victory, also against Brandon. The Jimmies stand at 2-0 with the two early wins. With the large margins of victory, JC played 15 kids in game one and 14 in game two. Giuli Varriano led the charge with 18 points on Friday and 19 on Saturday. Katie O'Neill also chipped in with 18 on Friday and followed it up with 10 on Saturday. Cori Doubek (pictured) had two solid games after missing the entire 2008-09 season. Kellie Schuneman and Amanda Rantapaa were both solid in two games.

A number of reserves contributed also with Dakota Anderson (pictured) and Nicole
Ahlers leading the charge.

JC will travel to the University of North Dakota on Thursday for an exhibition game.

For more on the weekend games, go to: http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/article/id/96979/

New Look Jimmies Open Season Tonight

Coming off a trip to the NAIA National Tournament and 20 wins, the Jimmies are anxious to step on the floor tonight and open the 2009-10 season. Giuli Varriano, Cori Doubek, and Katie O'Neill make their return to the floor after missing part or the entire 2008-09 season. They will join veterans Amanda Rantapaa (pictured), Allison Epping, Ali Edwards, Kellie Schuneman, and Jackie Hust.

For more on the 2009-10 Jimmies, log into http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/article/id/96834/

Jimmies top pre-season DAC poll

The Jamestown College women's basketball team received 4 first place votes to top the DAC pre-season poll. JC finished the 2008-09 season third in the DAC, 20 wins, and a trip to the NAIA National Touranment. The Jimmie return a host of experience and look forward to building on last season's accomplishments. For more on the story, go to:
http://www.jamestownsun.com/event/article/id/96557/

Jimmies Prepare for 2009-10 Season Opener

The Jamestown College Women's Basketball team opens up Ocotber 23 & 24 versus Brandon University. Jamestown College returns a large portion of their 2008-09 squad that won 20 games and advanced to the NAIA National Tournament. Six seniors will provide plenty of experience for Head Coach Mark Wiest. Leading the way is fifth-year senior shooting guard, Amanda Rantapaa (pictured above) . She will be joined in the back court by another senior shooting guard, Katie O'Neill (pictured right) who was on her way to a tremendous junior year before suffering a season ending injury shortly before Christmas. Rounding out the back court will be junior, Kellie Schuneman (pictured left), entering her third yeat as the Jimmies starting point guard. Senior Ali Edwards, who is currently enjoying a successful season with the Jimmie volleyball team will be joining her teammates after the volleyball season comes to a conclusion.

The front court returns as much experience as the back court. Fifth year senior, Giuli Varriano returns after missing the entire season last year with a season ending injury that she suffered in September. Joing her also will be senior, Cori Doubek who also missed last year with an injury. Allison Epping returns for her senior year after joining the Jimmies last year as a junior college transfer. Allie provided immediate depth last year for the Jimmies and she impressed all season.

With this nucleus along with junior, Jackie Hust, junior college transfer Krista Shaikowski, sophomores Dakota Anderson and Nicole Ahlers, the Jimmies return as much experience as anyone in the conference, or for that fact the country.

Head Coach Mark Wiest is also excited about his group of freshman who provide immediate depth, athleticism, and talent.

Jimmies Enjoy Their Time at Nationals

The Jamestown College women's basketball team enjoyed everything about their trip to Sioux City, IA. The attached pictures are from the NAIA Banquet, which had a Mardi Gras theme and prior to the line-up of the Parade of Champions.

Jimmies season comes to a close at Sioux City

Jamestown College ended it's season with a 64-54 loss to Huntington University in the opening round of the NAIA National Tournament. The Jimmies season ended with a record of 20 wins and 10 losses. JC could never quite get on track against a very determined Huntington team. Even though JC struggled to find its rhythm, they were always within striking distance, but could never quite get over the hump. Part of the problem was the Jimmies shooting percentage as they connected on a disappointing 27% for the game, including 4 of 25 from the three point line.

Even though the season ended prematurely, the Jimmies had many accomplishments throughout the season even though they were written off by many after injuries to three starters. The Jimmies won 20 games for the first time since 1999-2000 and made their first appearance in the National Tournament since 1999-2000. With the experience they gained throughout the season, a National Tournament birth, and all starters returning with the exception of First Team All-Conference performer, Heidi Fiechtner, the future looks very bright. The Jimmies know they can't sit back and relax as the DAC returns a very deep and experienced conference next season. Coach Wiest says, "There is a lot of work to be done this off-season if we expect to contend for our conference championship and make a return trip back to Nationals. We all want to build on this success, but it will require a lot of work, determination, and sacrifices. We definitely have the talent and experience, but we need to have a lot of drive and motivation to get the job done. As far as I'm concerned, none of us were happy with the way our season ended and we all feel we have goals not accomplished yet. Look for us to build on what we did and take another step forward."

On to Sioux City for JC

Amanda Rantapaa leads the Jimmies to Sioux City, IA.

The Jamestown College women's basketball team advances to NAIA National Tournament.

For more on the article, visit: http://www.jamestownsun.com/articles/index.cfm?id=81469&section=sports

Two Jimmies Earn All-Conference

Freshman, Mara Paulson Senior Heidi Fiechtner

Jamestown College Women's Basketball Senior Heidi Fiechtner was named to the DAC All-Conference first team. Heidi was very instrumental in leading the Jimmies to 20 wins and a third place finish in the DAC. Heidi set career highs with a 13 ppg average along with 6.9 rpg. She currently has 338 points and 179 rebounds on the season. She also shot 56.7% from the field and 67.9% from the free throw line.

Freshman Mara Paulson was named the DAC's Freshman of the Year and she was also named to the DAC All-Conference second team. Mara led all DAC freshman with 12.4 ppg and 6.3 rpg. These numbers were only behind Heidi Fiechtner's season stats for the Jimmies. For the season, Mara scored 336 points and grabbed 169 rebounds. She shot 46.5% from the field, 39.1% from the 3 point line, and 72% from the free throw line.

#21 Jimmies Earn At-Large Bid, Move on to Sioux City

Jimmies return to Sioux City, IA for Nationals. In the background is the site of the 2009 National Tournament.

The Jamestown College Women's Basketball team had to wait patiently for the last 6 days, but it definitely paid off. The Jimmies received an at-large bid today to the NAIA 32 Team National Tournament at Sioux City, IA. The Jimmies now wait to hear what seed they are and who they will play, which will be released on Thursday.
The Jimmies currently 20-9, make their first trip to the National Tournament as a member of the DAC conference. This is the first time since 1999-2000 that the Jimmies move onto the National Tournament. This is also the first year since 1999-2000 that the Jimmies won 20 games.
The Jimmies have persevered all season, including 2 season ending injuries to 2008 All-Conference performers Giuli Varriano and Cori Doubek before the season started. Then, shortly before Christmas, the Jimmies lost starting guard, Katie O'Neill to a season ending injury. Credit to the girls, the Jimmies hung tough, different players stepped up, and they found ways to win.
The Jimmies are especially happy for Senior Heidi Fiechtner. Heidi, who was just named First Team All-Conference has been a major player all season for the Jimmies. Juniors Ali Edwards, Amanda Rantapaa, and Allison Epping have all provided highlights throughout season along with a number of other players.

#20 Jimmies drop hard fought game to #10 Black Hills

Kellie Schuneman

Jamestown College came just short of advancing to the DAC Championship by dropping a hard fought game to #10 Black Hills State, 55-48 in Spearfish, SD. JC led 30-26 at halftime after going on a 15-4 late in the first half. The Jimmies shot 44% in the first half and limited Black Hills to 35% from the field. The second half provided a lot of defense for both teams and limited offense, but yet the Jimmies led with just over 6 minutes remaining before Black Hills hit 3 three pointers to go on a 10-2 run and the Jimmies could not catch up from there.
Jamestown College now must wait until the final NAIA ranking comes out next Wednesday, March 4th to determine whether their season will continue at the National Tournament in Sioux City, IA.
For more on the game, visit: http://www.jamestownsun.com/articles/index.cfm?id=81067&section=sports

JC verse Minot State

Kellie Schuneman drives past Sam Medcalf

Ali Edwards takes a hit from Holly Siverling

Jimmies Advance, Beat Minot State

Jamestown College won another typical battle with Minot State by beating the Beavers 66-56 in the DAC Quarterfinals and now advance to the Semi-finals against Black Hills State on Wednesday. In what proved to be a physical game on both sides, the Jimmies did enough from the field and free throw line, and tightened up its defense down the stretch to hang on.

The Jimmies had double digit leads in both halves, but Minot chipped away both times and had it down to two points with under two minutes remaining, before the Jimmies sealed the win at the free throw line. The Jimmies were lead by Senior, Heidi Fiechtner (pictured), who continued her strong season with 17 points and and 7 rebounds. Kellie Schuneman added 15, including going 5-5 from the free throw line. Freshman Mara Paulson added 12 including hitting 3 big baskets early in the second half. Amanda Rantapaa finished with another strong performance by adding 9 points and holding sharp shooter Whitney Lofteness to 0 points as she went 0-9 from the field.

For more on the game, go to: http://www.jamestownsun.com/articles/index.cfm?id=80833&section=sports

Jimmies in action verse Black Hills State and SD Mines

Sophomore guard Mindy Clark

Freshman Post Mara Paulson

Guard Ali Edwards

Jimmies Knock of #5 Black Hills State and SD Mines

Junior guard Amanda Rantapaa

Jamestown College won their last two regular season games to finish the regular season at 19-8 and 9-5 in the DAC. They have also won 5 of their last 6 games as they head into post season play. On Wednesday, in an entertaining match-up, the Jimmies fell behind early to #5 Black Hills State and trailed 31-24 at half. The Jimmies began the second half on a 12-0 run behind Amanda Rantapaa's four 3 pointers (pictured). Amanda finished the game 4 of 6 from behind the stripe and 14 points. Mara Paulson also sparked the Jimmies with her inside/outside game. Mara was 3-3 from the 3 point line and led the Jimmies with 20 points and 10 rebounds. The lead would change hands throughout the second half, but the Jimmies finished off possessions on the defensive end and knocked down free throws, 17-24 for the game.
Senior Heidi Fiechtner also scored 15 points and added 9 rebounds and sophomore point guard Kellie Schuneman finished with 10 points, including 6-6 from the free throw line.

After a emotional win on Wednesday, the Jimmies returned to action against SD Mines on Thursday. The Jimmies played a solid first half and led 36-20 at halftime, but Mines turned the table in the second half and eventually cut the lead to 1 point. The Jimmies had trouble finishing off shots and scoring the second half, but fortunately went 16-22 from the foul line. JC was led in scoring by Kellie Schuneman with 18. Ali Edwards added 13 and Mara Paulson chipped in 10.

The Jimmies open play-off action on Sunday as the number 3 seed. They take on sixth seeded Minot State.

Jimmies In Action verse Bluehawks

Mindy Clark looking to pass out of the double team.

Ali Edwards blocks Kelsey Boedeker.

#12 Dickinson drops Jamestown College

In a match-up of two top 25 teams, Dickinson State came out on top, 77-68 over the Jimmies. In what proved to be one of the most physical games of the season, the Jimmies could never quite get over the hump. The Jimmies had a tough time with the duo of Kia Herbel and Kelsey Boedeker who combined for 52 points on the day and Boedeker let the Jimmies know. “We’re so dynamic,” Boedeker said. “They just can’t stop one part of our game.”
The Jimmies battled through the physical part of the game all day, but in the end just came up short.
The Jimmies now prepare for two important games against Black Hills State and SD Mines.

Jimmie Women Grind Out Victory Over Minot State

In a game that featured big runs by both the Jimmies and Beavers, the Jimmies had the last run that ended up giving JC a big enough cushion to hold on for 1 78-71 victory. Jamestown College raced out to a 21-6 advantage eight minutes into the game, but Minot State answered back with their own run to tie the game 34-34 at halftime. The Beavers opened the second half on a 11-3 run to open a 45-37 lead before Jamestown started to solve Minot's zone defense.

A key to the Jimmie victory was once again the play of their bench. Nicole Ahlers knocked down 3 huge three pointers, the last coming with a 1:30 remaining pushing the Jimmie lead to 73-63. Mindy Clark (pictured), Stacey Nygaard, and Amanda Rantapaa each hit a 3 of their own to help propel the Jimmies. The Jimmies were just 3-9 in the first half from the three point line, but were 6-14 in the second half. JC was also very solid from the free throw line converting 25-33, 75%.

Ali Edwards continuted her strong play against Minot State as she lead the Jimmies with 17 points. Earlier in the season Ali scored a game high of 22 against the Beaves. Mindy Clark continued her strong play as of late and added 10 points off the bench. Three Jimmies each added 9 points; Mara Paulson (pictured), Heidi Fiecthner, and Nicole Ahlers.

Minot was lead by All-American Lashay Bagsby, 23 points and point guard Sam Medcalf with 20. For more on the game, visit: http://www.jamestownsun.com/articles/index.cfm?id=80211&section=sports

Jimmies stop slide, win 2 in a row.

JC put a stop to their 3 game losing streak with two wins over the weekend. The Jimmies avenged an earlier loss to Dakota State by beating the Trojans 78-67. In a game in which Dakota State came out on fire and led 19-10 early, the Jimmies kept their composure and slowly chipped away and eventually pulled ahead at halftime. A 24-7 run mid-way through the second half sealed the Jimmies win.

The depth of the Jimmies eventually got to Dakota State. Dakota Anderson kept the Jimmies in the game in the first half by scoring 12 points. Allison Epping led the Jimmies with 17 points off the bench. Mindy Clark and Jackie Hust (pictured) also provided valuable minutes. Mara Paulson and Kellie Schuneman also scored double digit points for the Jimmies.

Less then 24 hours later, the Jimmies kept things rolling with a huge 84-45 win over Mayville State. The Jimmies surged to a 12-0 lead and never looked back. The Jimmies built their lead to 52-27 at half and eventually built a 45 point cushion. Kellie Schuneman (pictured) had a strong start and finished with 20 points, going 8-9 from the field, 2-2- from the 3 point line, and 2-2 from the free throw line. Kellie also added 6 assists and no turnovers. Heidi Fiechtner continued her strong play this season as she finished with a game high of 21 points and 8 rebounds. Mara Paulson wrapped up a strong weekend with 11 points.

The Jimmies are currently 16-7 and are preparing for a big game verse Minot State on Wednesday.

Jimmie Women drop to #25, look to end three game slide

The Jimmie women slipped to #25 in the latest NAIA basketball poll. JC has dropped 3 games in a row, including their last loss to rival Valley City State. The Jimmie hope to get back on track this weekend against Dakota State and Mayville State, both of who are playing good basketball.

Upperclassmen Amanda Rantapaa (pictured) and Heidi Fiechtner will look to do whatever it takes to get the Jimmie back on the winning streak. Even with their 3 game losing streak, the Jimmies are still 14-7, but only 4-4 in conference play.

Jimmies Drop 2 Tough Games on the Road

Jamestown College found the going tough during their 67-58 loss to South Dakota School of Mines on Friday. The Jimmies never got a rhythm going, especially on the offensive end of the court. JC was sluggish and never had the energy needed to win on the road, and with the Hardrockers playing solid basketball and executing on both ends, it made it even more difficult for the road team. JC pulled ahead a few times in the second half, but could never distant themselves from Mines. JC was led by Kellie Schuneman with 13 points and Ali Edwards (pictured) with 11. For more on the game, visit: http://www.jamestownsun.com/articles/index.cfm?id=79028&section=sports

On Saturday, JC tried to come back from their disappointing loss on Friday, but new it would not be easy as they faced #9 Black Hills State, who was also coming off a loss to Valley City State. In what turned out to be one of the best games of the season in the DAC, the Yellow jackets prevailed pulling out an 80-77 overtime win. Black Hills controlled the first half on both ends of the court. The Jimmies could never relax and get into a comfort zone on offense and Black Hills had the Jimmies scrambling on defense. Katelynn Lamb had a great first half to help lead the Yellow jackets to a 32-24 halftime advantage. After five minutes of the second half, the Jimmies saw themselves down by 10, but then the tide began to turn. The Jimmies went on a 20-7 run over about 8 minutes and saw their lead grow to 5 points. BH began to battle back, but the Jimmies never lost the lead. With the Jimmies leading 66-63, Black Hills hit a desperation three with 4.8 second left to tie the game and sent it into overtime. The overtime period added more excitement to the game, but the Jimmies came up short 80-77.

Both teams battled hard for 45 minutes and either team could have come up on the winning end. The Jimmies had a lot of great individual efforts throughout the game. Freshman Mara Paulson led the Jimmies with 19 points, followed by Heidi Fiechtner with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Ali Edwards chipped in 10, Amanda Rantapaa ended with 9 points, including 2 big three pointers in the second half, one of which gave the Jimmies their first lead of the game, 44-42. Allison Epping and Jackie Hust also provided some big minutes off the bench.

The Jimmies now prepare for rival Valley City State on Thursday.

#5 Jimmies beat #14 Dickinson State, move into tie for 1st

Jamestown College turned up the defensive intensity in the second half and held Dickinson State to 35% from the field and then heated up shooting 52% from teh field in the second half. JC led 31-27 at half, but out-scored the Bluehawks 43-29 to pull away with a 74-56 win.

The Jimmies had numerous contributions, including great bench play. Freshman Mara Paulson continued her strong play and led the Jimmies with 19 points. Kellie Schuneman (pictured) played a very complete game adding 14 points and 5 assists. Allison Epping provided great help off the bench with 13 points. Jackie Hust also gave the Jimmies some important minutes off the bench with 8 points and some great defense. Ali Edwards chipped in 6 points, Amanda Rantapaa added 5, and Dakota Anderson finished with 3.

For more on the game, go to: http://www.jamestownsun.com/articles/index.cfm?id=78697&section=sports

Jimmies Rally Over Minot State

The Jimmies held MSU without a field goal over the final 5:53, outscored the Beavers 10-1 over the final 2:42, and forced 7 straight turnovers en route to a 70-67 win. The Beavers led 66-60 with 3:11 to go, but could only score one more point as the Jimmies dug in deep on defense and turned the momentum. The Jimmies had great balance again. Ali Edwards (pictured) scored the 7 of the final 8 points of the game. Edwards hit 2 free throws, a long three pointer to tie the game, and then a driving lay-up to give the Jimmies the lead for good. Ali then sealed the win with a steal with under 10 second left.

The game featured 18 lead changes and 11 ties, including 11 changes in the second half alone. JC switched defenses all night and forced Minot State into 20 turnovers. The Jimmies had a season low of 7 turnovers. Ali Edwards led the Jimmies with 22 points, followed by Mara Paulson and Allison Epping, each with 11. Kellie Schuneman (pictured) and Heidi Fiechtner each chipped in 8.

JC plays Dickinson State on Sunday afternoon for the conference lead.

Jimmies Ready for Important Conference Weekend

Jamestown College takes to the court on Thursday and Sunday of this week to play conference opponents Minot State and #14 Dickinson State. The Jimmies have an opportunity to stay in the thick of the conference race and also give them some breathing room if they can find a way to win two games. Both games will come down to limiting mistakes and execution on both ends of the court. Minot State has a very strong inside game along with some veterans in the backcourt while Dickinson brings one of the top posts in the conference in Kia Herbel along with some speed on the perimeter.

The Jimmies look to improve on their game from last weekend and take another step forward. The Jimmies will need all of their players to step up their scoring and defensive intensity. The Jimmies backcourt of Ali Edwards, Amanda Rantapaa, and Kellie Schuneman (Pictured) will continue to adjust on the go without Katie O'Neill who is recovering from season ending knee surgery.

Fiechtner named DAC Player of the Week

Senior Heidi Fiechtner was named the DAC Player of the Week. Heidi returned to action after not playing the last 6 weeks due to a concussion. She looked like she did not miss a step. In the Jimmies win over Mayville State, Heidi led the Jimmies with 16 points, going 6-9 from the field and 4-6 from the line. She also grabbed 7 rebounds, dished out 2 assists, and blocked 1 shot.

The next night, in a 2 point loss to Dakota State, Heidi again led the Jimmies in scoring with 24 points, 9-13 from the field and 6-9 from the line. She also grabbed 9 rebounds and added 2 assists. For the weekend, Heidi scored 40 points, added 16 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 blocked shot.

Jimmies Split on the Road

Jamestown College finally hit the court after having a 27 day lay off between games. The Jimmies did have 2 games scheduled during this break. but both games were cancelled.
The Jimmies shook off some rust to take a 59-52 win over Mayville State, but came up two points short, 70-68 against Dakota State. The Jimmies almost broke through to get their first win in a number of years at Madison, but couldn't pull it off.
The Jimmies hit the road again on Thursday as they venture to Minot State for a critical conference game for both teams. JC finally plays at home on Sunday, January 18th. This will be the Jimmies first home game since December 10th.