CAA Women’s Basketball Recap – January 31
On Friday night, the court was alive with action as all 14 teams competed, with nail-biting finishes becoming a common theme across the games.
UNCW 70, Hofstra 67 (OT)
In a thrilling overtime matchup, UNCW (11-10, 5-3) edged out Hofstra (9-10, 4-4) with a score of 70-67, marking the Seahawks’ fifth victory in conference play. Ali Zelaya stood out, delivering an impressive double-double with 22 points and 13 rebounds.
The Seahawks rallied late in the fourth quarter, executing a 6-0 run that led to the overtime period. After falling behind 61-59 with under three minutes remaining, Zelaya sank two free throws followed by a jumper from Taylor Henderson within a quick span. Hofstra managed to tie the game at 62 thanks to a free throw by Lanae Corbett, but Corrie McLaughlin’s critical block ensured the Hawks would have to battle in overtime. In the extra session, the teams traded baskets, but two late free throws from Tia Dobson sealed the Seahawks’ victory. Hofstra had four starters reach double figures, with Zyheima Swift leading the way at 14 points.
Drexel 53, Northeastern 47
Drexel (10-8, 6-2) narrowly defeated Northeastern (1-16, 0-8) with a final score of 53-47. The Dragons maintained a slim lead throughout the game but found themselves challenged in the closing moments.
With 59 seconds left, Northeastern brought the game to a two-point deficit. However, Drexel’s Deja Evans answered back with a vital layup, and Cara McCormack’s tenacious defense led to a crucial steal. Molly Lavin then added two essential free throws, solidifying the win for Drexel. Amaris Baker led the Dragons with 16 points, while Abigail Jegede topped all scorers with 19 points for Northeastern.
Charleston 66, Stony Brook 53
Charleston (14-5, 5-3) achieved a decisive 66-53 victory over Stony Brook (10-10, 5-4) fueled by an explosive first quarter.
The Cougars established dominance early, launching to a 20-8 lead in the first quarter and never looking back. With standout performances from Taryn Barbot and Jazmyn Stone, who both scored 17 points, Charleston outperformed Stony Brook, forcing six turnovers and limiting their opponents to a mere 15.4% shooting from the field. Breauna Ware shone for Stony Brook, tallying 21 points in the matchup.
Towson 63, Delaware 48
Towson (5-14, 3-5) surged past Delaware (4-14, 1-7) with a strong fourth quarter, resulting in a 63-48 scoreline.
India Johnston was a game-changer, pouring in 15 of her 24 points in the decisive quarter, which Towson outscored Delaware 21-7. The Blue Hens struggled to find the basket and went almost five minutes without scoring. Ande’a Cherisier led Delaware with 15 points.
William & Mary 64, Elon 59
Despite trailing by five points heading into the fourth quarter, William & Mary (9-10, 6-2) rallied to claim a 64-59 victory over Elon (11-8, 5-3).
Down 51-46 with 10 minutes remaining, the Tribe dominated the early stages of the fourth quarter with a 13-0 run, driven by Cassidy Geddes, who scored eight of her 25 points during that stretch. William & Mary maintained its lead, extending its win streak to five games, while Elon’s Raven Preston recorded a double-double with 12 points and 19 rebounds.
N.C. A&T 74, Hampton 51
N.C. A&T (12-8, 8-1) cruised to a 74-51 victory over Hampton (5-15, 1-8) led by Maleia Bracone’s stellar all-around performance.
Bracone’s game featured 17 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, showcasing her dominance particularly in the first half. The Aggies shot a solid 42.6% from the field and restricted Hampton to just 32.1%, allowing only eight points in the fourth quarter. Jasha Clinton led the Pirates with 23 points in the game.
Campbell 76, Monmouth 67
In an intense showdown, Campbell (11-9, 4-4) outperformed Monmouth (10-10, 5-4) with a final score of 76-67.
The teams were tied at 52 with under eight minutes left when Jasmine Felton and Courtney Dahlquist hit back-to-back three-pointers, giving Campbell a crucial six-point lead. Despite Monmouth’s effort to close the gap, Campbell’s sharp shooting, including seven makes from beyond the arc in the fourth quarter, secured their victory. Dahlquist led Campbell scoring with 20 points, while Monmouth’s Damaris Rodriguez topped all scorers with 21 points.
