Big Reds Fall to Wildcats in Regular Season Finale

The Milan Big Reds played an aggressive man-to-man defense all night, but it was not enough to pull past a state-ranked Onsted Wildcats Thursday night. The Wildcats won 47-30.

Milan dumped its normal 1-3-1 zone defense in favor of man-to-man to prepare for the MHSAA distric playoffs that begin Monday.  The team played aggressively and improved as the night progressed, allowing fewer points in later quarters.

“Defensively, we played man-to-man all night because we have got to get ready for Ida, because Ida is a great three point shooting team,” said head coach Jeff Scott.

The team was down 28-16 at the half after a rough first half on offense. Poor passes and missed shots hampered the team.

The team came out fast in the third quarter, making a quick three pointer and a layup. The defense continued to play aggressive and some of the girls got into foul trouble early in the half.  The Big Reds were down 47-30 after the period.

Being down late in the game and having a few players with foul issues, Scott played his reserves to get them some game experience for the upcoming playoffs.  The aggressive defense continued, with Kat Hoffman setting the tone for the Milan bench. 

Milan’s offense was powered by Sarah Ramsey’s 11 points. Corinna Schneider led the Big Reds defense with three steals and three blocks; she also added six points and five assists on offense.

“I gave all the girls secret messages tonight.  Sarah’s was ‘shoot the ball’.  I don’t care if you’re missing, shoot the ball.  Her little drive floaters were money,” said Scott.

Milan plays Ida in the opening round of the district playoffs at home on Monday.

Here's the schedule MHSAA District 37-B

Monday, 5 p.m. — Onsted vs Chelsea

Monday, 7 p.m. — Midlan vs Ida, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, 5 p.m. — Tecumseh vs Onsted or Chelsea

Wednesday, 7 p.m. — Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard vs Milan or Ida

Friday, 7 p.m. — District Championship