Sunday, November 1st saw the Niagara College women's basketball (2-1, 5th West) program host their 2015-16 season opener with a tough game against the St. Clair Saints. Riding the hot hand of guard of Jaide Lyons and her game-high 20 points, the Saints came away with the 72-56 victory.
After beginning the season 2-0 and averaging 92 points-per-game, the Knights were unable to find their rhythm in front of the home crowd. Despite decent shooting numbers, it was the press defence from St. Clair that gave the Knights trouble. The Saints forced 30 turnovers that resulted in 27 points.
"It was a tight contest in the first half," said Niagara College women's basketball head coach Mike Becarria. "They played very well down the stretch, executed well, and hit most of their shots. We also turned the ball over way too much, and were outrebounded for the first-time this season."
At half time, the score was tied at 29 but the Saints made some adjustments, outscoring Niagara 43-27 in the second half.
The Knights were paced by their two big forwards, the McPherson sisters. Natives of Welland, Kaitlyn finished with a team-high 13 points, while Courtney finished with 11 points and 11 rebounds. For Courtney, the reigning OCAA rookie of the year, it was her first double-double of the season.
First-year guard Marino Painco also added 11 points, shooting three of six from behind the arc.
The loss now makes the Knights record 13-12 against the Saints at home, 18-31 all-time.
The Knights now have two days off before they play again, a home game against the Redeemer Royals (0-1, 8th West). The game will be played on Wednesday, November 4th at the Welland Campus Athletic Centre and will be streamed live at goknights.ca/WatchLive. Tip-off is set for 6:00pm.
