and prowess on the defensive end, particularly during the Sweet Sixteen run. At one point in the postseason, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Commissioner Rich Ensor had mentioned that he wanted to hire Kresge. Ensor was true to his word, as Kresge became his point guard (ahem, director) of women’s basketball operations. Recruiting is the lifeblood of any program, and the Red Foxes were hitting the jackpot annually. One superstar leaves, another joins the fold. Erica Allenspach stood 5-foot- 8 and was not heavily recruited but drew Giorgis’ attention for her all-around game and ability to make her teammates better. The Red Foxes also received significant contributions from Elise Caron, who helped solidify the point guard position for the next four years, and 6-foot-3 Maria Laterza, who did the same at center. Ironically enough, Marist opened the 2007-08 season at Ohio State. The Buckeyes prevailed 63-57, although Allenspach tied Lynzee Johnson for the team lead with 12 points. The Red Foxes responded by reeling off a 10-game winning streak, which was highlighted by a tremendous run at the Oahu Classic in Hawaii. An overtime triumph over Utah on Thanksgiving night preceded a seven-point win over Nebraska the following night. These victories grew in stature as the season unfolded, and the Red Foxes capped off the tournament with a 24-point win over Eastern Washington. Marist dropped a non-conference home game to Hartford on Dec. 12, but the Red Foxes’ next game at Albany 10 days later marked the start of two long and successful runs.
45
Thank You, Coach Giorgis
Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker