Jonas Powell, Staff Photographer
On Saturday, the women’s basketball team continued their win streak by defeating Marywood University 63-57. The Cardinals now stand at 3-1 this season. Wesleyan started the game strong, leading 19-9 at the end of the first quarter, and played a consistently solid game.
The second quarter was fast-paced and thrilling to watch. Olivia Gorman ’19 scored off a fast break at the 6:40 mark, followed by another fast break where she was fouled and scored on the first free throw, although she was short on the second. Additionally, Ava Tompkins ’20 hit a 3-pointer at the 6:02 mark, putting the Cards ahead by 14 points, their largest lead of the game. While a layup by Marywood’s Emily Theobold cut the lead to eight points, the Cardinals then went on a 6-2 run, closing out the first half leading 34-22 when Katy O’Connor ’21 scored a free-throw with :01 on the clock.
At half time, Gorman was the highest scorer on the court, having scored 10 points. The Pacers came out strong in the third, opening with a 6-0 run to cut the lead to eight points. A fast break where Gorman scored at the 5:39 mark put Wesleyan ahead 38-30, but then a three-pointer by Marywood’s Kilie Wyers cut the gap to five with 5:35 left on the clock. The Cards kept the energy and intensity high on the court and brought the lead back into double-digits thanks to a 3-pointer by Gorman and a layup off a rebound by Chynna Bailey ’19. However, the Pacers did not give up. When Morgan Shamro scored a three with 1:36 left in the quarter, the deficit was once again cut to five points. The third quarter ended with Wesleyan leading 47-40.
Jonas Powell, Staff Photographer
The fourth quarter maintained the same energy and excitement as the rest of the game. Early on, Tompkins scored from behind the arc, and Bailey scored consecutive layups, putting Wesleyan ahead by 13 with 6:15 on the clock. The end of the game was thrilling with both benches taking full advantage of their time outs. Marywood’s coach called a full timeout with 27.4 seconds left on the clock, with Wesleyan up 62-57. The Pacers came out of the time out trying to score a 3-pointer, however Shamro missed. With 15.5 seconds left on the clock, Marina Petruzzi ’22 was fouled and made the first of two, putting Wesleyan at 63-57, the final score of the game.
“Saturday was a great win for us,” Gorman said. “Our offense is coming together really well and our intensity on defense is helping us win games. It is exciting to be a part of this team because we have a lot of talent and we have the potential to have really successful season.”
The team’s success could be attributed to its strong teamwork, both offensively and defensively. That said, there were a few players with exceptional plays. Tara Berger ’19 recorded her fourth consecutive double-double of the season, scoring 11 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Gorman scored a game high 17 points, helping the Birds maintain their steady lead throughout the game.
Caleigh Ryan ’22 and Tompkins both recorded four assists, showcasing the team’s teamwork and ability to play selflessly. Starting point guard Tompkins pushed the ball and led the team, creating plays for her teammates to score as demonstrated through her ability to create assists, while also scoring eight points herself and recording six rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Bailey also had a noteworthy game, scoring eight points while recording six rebounds, four blocks, two assists and one steal.
Jonas Powell, Staff Photographer
Overall, the Cards played a strong game that allowed them to maintain a consistent and comfortable lead throughout.
“I am expecting a competitive game on Wednesday, but if we come ready to play our game we should come out on top,” Gorman said.
Come out to support the team this tomorrow, Dec. 5, as they will be hosting Endicott College in a non-conference game at 7 p.m.
Alissa Dobrinsky can be reached at adobrinsky@wesleyan.edu.