With a 76-56 victory over the Redeemer Royals (3-12, 8th West), the Niagara College women's basketball (9-6) program is now in fourth place in the OCAA West. The win ties the Knights with Sheridan College (9-7, 5th West) at 18 points each, however the Bruins have one game in hand.
The Royals started the game off strong, outscoring Niagara 17-16 after the first quarter. The Knights began to wake up after the slow start, taking a lead in the second and never looking back. Niagara finished the game strong, outscoring the Royals 21-9.
The biggest story of the night was the dominant, physical performance by the Knights in the paint. Niagara had 65 rebounds compared to 37 rebounds by Redeemer. Fourth year forward Miranda Ross (St. Catharines) set season-highs tonight with 15 points and 15 rebounds. The OCAA leader in blocks per game added to her total tonight with a game-high four blocks.
First year forward Courtney McPherson also recorded a double double, her sixth of the season. McPherson recorded a career-high 32 points to go along with 16 rebounds. More impressive, was the way McPherson played exceptional defense on one of the best scorers in the province, Jesseca Brown.
"Courtney was fantastic on Jesseca tonight, holding her to only 13 points," said head coach Mike Beccaria. "She did everything right tonight and is becoming a phenomenal player."
The OCAA assist leader, Alyssa McCabe (Niagara Falls), recorded a game-high eight assists for the Knights, while Welland native Kaitlyn McPherson added 12 points and eight rebounds.
The Knights will now get set for a two game road trip as they will face the Lambton Lions (4-10, 7th West) on February 14 then immediately play the St. Clair Saints (8-6, 6th West) on February 15.