The Niagara Knights women's basketall program (7-6, 5th OCAA West) bested the St. Clair Saints for the second time this season in a 72-67 win.
The Knights had an extremely strong first-half offensively, as they shot 50.0% (18-36) from the field and 77.8% (7-9) from the free-throw line that catapulted them to a 46-35 lead at the break. In the second quarter, the Knights scored 27 points, their second highest single-quarter total since they scored 33 points in the fourth quarter to force overtime against Redeemer in the season opener.
Down 11 however, St. Clair battled back in the third quarter, capatilizing on the 12 free throws the Knights allowed them to take by shooting 75.0% (9-12) from the line. Niagara was able to mostly shut down the Saints offense outside of their free throws to maintain their lead.
The Knights controlled the glass for most of the fourth quarter and were able to close out the victory, sealing it with a 72-67 score.
"We really started well but didn't play well in the third," said Knights head coach Mike Beccaria. "But we executed well down the stretch and for the most part held our composure in a tight game."
Bridget Atkinson (Welland) had a team-high 20 points to go along with 12 rebounds, four assists and four steals. The 20 and 12 performance marked her third straight double-double.
Alannah Yates (Hamilton) returned from injury and scored 15 minutes in 27 minutes of game action. The guard shot an impressive 50.0% (5-10) from the field.
Hannah Baker (Thorold) and Rysa Delmundo (Niagara Falls) had 11 and 10 points, respectively.
The Knights continue their OCAA regular season schedule when they take on the Mohawk Mountaineers (3-9, 10th OCAA West) at home on Friday, January 25th at 6pm.
