BALTIMORE– The Notre Dame of Maryland University women's basketball team tied a program record for consecutive wins, rattling off their 14th consecutive victory by defeating Saint Elizabeth University by a score of 62-57 on Saturday, Jan. 27.
The Gators got off to a strong start, attacking the interior to build an early 5-2 lead. Amya Durham then swished back-to-back jumpers, pushing the lead to nine. The Eagles answered back, closing the opening quarter on a 10-2 run to even the score at 14 apiece. Alexis Jones put the Gators on top early in the second quarter, finishing two straight layups at the basket. Saint Elizabeth answered right back, hitting two consecutive 3-pointers to retake the lead. Hillary Howard slowed the Eagles momentarily powering in a layup to tie the game at 20. Saint Elizabeth took their first significant lead of the game, building a five-point lead with 2:30 remaining in the first half. The Gators fought back, using a Howard layup and a pair of foul shots to cut the deficit down to one going into the break.
NDMU stormed out of the gates in the third quarter, getting out on the break and scoring six-straight points to retake the lead. Chantel Curry made a major impact, attacking the basket for a pair of layups to help the Gators hold a six-point advantage. After two free throws by Jones, Howard scored on a layup off an inbounds pass, pushing the lead to 10 points with just under two minutes remaining in the quarter. The Eagles swung momentum back to their side, going on a 7-2 run to cut the Gators lead down to five heading into the fourth quarter.
The Eagles scored the first four points of the fourth quarter, closing within a single point. Durham and Bethani Newbold scored on back-to-back possessions, pushing the lead back to five points. Saint Elizabeth made a push, hitting two deep 3-pointers sparking an 11-0 run that gave them a six-point lead. The Gators desperately needed a spark and Curry provided one, storming to the basket for a layup. Durham then sliced the Eagles lead down to one with her first 3-pointer of the game. Jones tied the game at 55, converting a free throw with 2:29 remaining in the game. After a basket by each team, Jones converted a free throw, giving NDMU a one-point lead. The Gators turned up their defensive pressure, getting three key stops down the stretch and converting free throws at the other end of the floor to give NDMU the 62-57 victory.
INSIDE THE NUMBERS
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Howard recorded a double-double, finishing the game with a team-high of 17 points to go along with 12 rebounds.
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Jones also posted a double-double, powering in 15 points and gathering 12 rebounds.
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Durham hit the team's only 3-pointer, recording 14 points.
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Curry provided a much-needed spark off the bench, scoring 11 points.
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The Eagles were led by Destiny Battle who played all 40 minutes, scoring 17 points.
WHO'S NEXT?
The Gators will head back out on the road, traveling to face Cedar Crest College on Tuesday, Jan. 30. The tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM.
STAY CONNECTED
Fans can keep up with NDMU Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube using the handle @ndmgatorsports.
