On Jan. 17 the Laurier Women’s Basketball team suited up to play the University of Windsor Lancers.
Although the Golden Hawks were undersized, they played a very competitive and intense game against the division leaders. The Golden Hawks were unable to get many calls to fall their way, only getting six free throws to Windsor’s 17.
This, combined with their offensive struggles in the fourth quarter, led to the Golden Hawks losing the game. The Hawks came out of the gates swinging, scoring an efficient 21 points to Windsor’s 17.
The Golden Hawks showed excellent ball movement, scoring contributions from both the starters and the bench. The second quarter was much of the opposite, as Windsor was able to claw back the lead thanks to Julia Chiarot scoring an incredibly efficient eight points.
The Lancers outscored the Golden Hawks 20-15 in the quarter. However, the Hawks were able to keep the game close as the halftime score was 27-26.
The Golden Hawks learned from their defensive shortcomings in the third quarter, holding the Lancers to 11 points with physical and tough defence. The Hawks were not able to get going offensively, only scoring 13.
Both teams made the most out of turnovers and the Golden Hawks were able to grab a 49-48 lead. The fourth quarter was filled with drama, with Windsor drawing first blood.
However, with a minute on the clock, Brittyn Graves hit a shot to put the Hawks up 62-59. Things seemed secure until a couple seconds later when Windsor was able to score a free throw.
Then, with 24 seconds on the clock, Windsor’s Harriet Carey drilled a three to put Windsor up 63-62. The Golden Hawks were not able to respond, sealing the win for Windsor.
This thrilling game displayed both team’s defensive capabilities, with Windsor’s late game composure pushing them over the edge.
“Seventeen free throw attempts for them and six for us. So, I thought we deserved better,” said Paul Falco, the head coach of the Golden Hawks and manager of women’s basketball operations.
Golden Hawks forward Janet Enge commented on her defensive effort, highlighting her mindset. She stated that she was “not being frantic” and was not afraid of the size difference between her and the players she was tasked with defending.
Enge’s comments encapsulated the Golden Hawks’ efforts, keeping the game competitive through tough defence and great teamwork.
With five games in the month of February and momentum shifting in their favour after adding a fourth win to the streak and sitting in the middle of the West division, will the Golden Hawks be able to make a push to become post-season bound?
Photo by Birnavan Varnacumaaran
