UChicago Women’s Basketball Opens Season with Victory
DE PERE, Wis. – The University of Chicago women’s basketball team kicked off their 2025-26 season with a hard-fought win against St. Norbert. The matchup took place on Friday night and showcased a mix of tenacity and skill from the Maroons.
Game Highlights
The game started as a closely contested affair, with neither team able to secure a substantial lead during the first quarter. However, UChicago found momentum early in the second quarter, launching a crucial 6-0 run. This surge, fueled by layups from Annabelle Spotts and Chris Sanders, allowed the Maroons to take a five-point advantage at halftime.
Second Half Rally
Following halftime, UChicago extended their lead significantly. An impressive 11-3 run in the opening moments of the third quarter positioned them ahead by 14 points, with the score reaching 42-28. Despite the increasing pressure, the Green Knights mounted a spirited comeback, executing a 17-4 run that brought the deficit down to just one point with under four minutes remaining in the game.
Sealing the Win
In the game’s critical moments, Sanders hit a layup, and Spotts made two pivotal free throws to reestablish a five-point lead. The Maroons then focused on defense, successfully forcing turnovers and securing key stops, including a steal by Kasi Samuda, which ultimately helped clinch the 54-49 victory.
Player Performances
- Spotts led the scoring with 14 points.
- Sanders contributed with 10 points.
- Samuda and Caroline Workman each grabbed six rebounds.
Defensive Efforts
UChicago’s defense was also a significant factor in the win, holding the Green Knights to 35% shooting from the field and just 28% from beyond the arc. The Maroons successfully forced 17 turnovers, showcasing their defensive prowess.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Maroons start their season at 1-0. UChicago will next compete against #3 UW-Oshkosh on Saturday, November 8, at 1 PM CT, as part of the Nicolet National Bank Tip-Off Invitational.
