Becker, Marzoni, Roussel each score 23 to key victory

by RYAN ARENA

Sports Editor

St. Charles Coach Erin Remondet has said that her senior class this year will be among the hardest that she’s ever had to let go of.

On Friday night, those seniors made sure that Remondet would have a very fond memory of their last home performance.

Seniors Michelle Marzoni and Brittany Roussel each scored 23, and combined with junior Brooke Becker to lead the Comets to a 77-61 victory over 9-3A rival Lutcher on St. Charles’ senior night.

“The girls were ecstatic in the locker room,” said Remondet. “At the same time, some of the seniors were crying. It hit hard, being the last game.

“But at the same time, playing like that and putting up those big numbers gives us the confidence level we had earlier in the year.”

Becker scored 23 herself, a big part of the Comets’ highest scoring game of the year.

It couldn’t have come at a more crucial time for St. Charles. Against the rival Bulldogs, and having struggled mightily shooting the ball throughout district play, the Comets exploded in a game they had to have to stay alive in the playoff chase.

Much like in the last meeting between St. Charles and Lutcher, St. Charles had a hot start. The Comets outscored Lutcher 13-2 in the first quarter, and carried a 27-15 lead into halftime.

But just like in that previous meeting at Lutcher, the Bulldogs made a push. In the first game, it was the Bulldogs’ defense that brought them back. This time, it was decidedly the offense – the Bulldogs scored 32 points in the 3rd quarter to cut the St. Charles lead to two, 49-47.

“They were hitting everything they put up,” said Remondet.

Lutcher point guard Essense Peterson was doing the majority of the offensive damage for the Bulldogs, in the lane and from beyond the 3-point arc.

Remondet adjusted her defense to a box-and-one to attempt to limit Peterson’s production in the fourth quarter.

Lutcher would threaten to spoil the night for St. Charles after forcing a pair of Comet turnovers as a result of its full-court press.

But after a timeout, St. Charles regrouped.

The Comets began to break the press again and score some easy baskets. Marzoni hit two 3’s. St. Charles was again firmly in control, and outscored Lutcher 24-14 in the final period to seal the win.

“We mentally pulled together. We were determined to not let it slip away,” said Remondet. “After we broke the press, it allowed us to not have to work as hard offensively to get our points.”

Roussel saved her best performance for her final home game, providing the necessary compliment to season scoring leaders Becker and Marzoni in a game that Lutcher brought its offense.

“Brittany was really on fire,” said Remondet.

Now, St. Charles turns its attention to Brusly, in a game that could carry major playoff implications. Both teams are vying for a wildcard berth in the upcoming state playoffs.

And perhaps the win over Lutcher is the momentum changer St. Charles needs at just the right time – one that could give Remondet a little extra time with that senior class.

“You know, I’m very close with all my players. But knowing these seniors are leaving soon has been tough. They’re such a good group of girls,” said Remondet. “They not only listen and care about the game, but also about me, my kids, my family.

“It’s going to be tough when it ends. (The win on Friday) makes it easier on me.”