BALTIMORE– The Notre Dame of Maryland University women's basketball team earned a valuable conference victory, defeating Cairn University by a score of 72-57 on Monday, Feb. 5.
The Gators got off to a fast start with Bethani Newbold and Hillary Howard converting layups on the team's first two possessions of the game. NDMU continued to build the lead with four-straight points from Alexis Jones making the score 9-4. Later in the quarter, Chantel Curry drilled a 3-pointer from the corner, giving NDMU an eight-point lead. The Highlanders answered back, going on a 9-2 run to close back within one point. Curry hit another 3-pointer in the final minute of the quarter, giving NDMU a 19-17 lead going into the second quarter. The teams traded baskets in the first minutes of the second quarter, with Amya Durham racing out on the break, scoring a layup to put the Gators in front. Howard then capitalized on an offensive rebound, putting in a layup to stretch the lead back to five points. The Gators maintained the lead throughout the quarter, with Howard swiping a steal and racing down the court for a layup in the NDMU's final possession of the half, making the score 34-26.
NDMU extended its lead early in the second half, with Durham converting a layup to push the lead to 10 points. The Gators continued to run in transition with Curry and Jones converting layups. Sariyah Waller then knocked down a 3-pointer, pushing the lead to 15 points. Curry gave the Gators a 20-point lead swiping a steal and racing out in transition for a layup. NDMU remained in control through the game's final 10 minutes, building the lead to 25 points, eventually earning the 72-57 victory.
INSIDE THE NUMBERS
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Howard led the Gators in scoring, racking up 22 points along with eight rebounds and six assists.
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Curry provided NDMU with a spark off the bench, scoring 15 points by connecting on two 3-pointers.
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Durham finished the game with 10 points and five assists.
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Jones made an impact while dealing with foul issues, scoring 11 points in 17 minutes of action.
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Cairn was led in scoring by Taylor Hinson who scored 20 points
WHO'S NEXT?
The Gators will host Rosemont College on Wednesday, Feb. 5. The tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM.
STAY CONNECTED
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