In hopes of earning their first win of the season, the Southern Utah University women’s basketball team hosted Saint Joseph’s University on Nov. 20. SUU struggled to shoot the ball and fell to SJU 82-53.
“To their credit, that is a really good team,” said SUU head coach Tracy Mason. “We need to be better on both ends of the court and I don’t think we are giving 100% effort.
With the loss, Southern Utah falls to 0-5 on the year, while Saint Joseph improves to 4-0.
First quarter
The Hawks came out firing, starting the game on a 12-0 through the first 4 minutes of play. Saint Joseph’s continued to control the first quarter scoring with ease while forcing Southern Utah to take tough contested shots. Laura Ziegler dominated in the quarter, scoring 13 of the Hawks’ 27 points and giving them a 27-14 lead.
Second quarter
Saint Joseph’s continued to have their way on both sides of the ball in the quarter, shooting 69.2% from the field in the quarter. On the other hand, Southern Utah fought to keep in the game. Ava Uhrich led the team with eight points at the half, yet Southern Utah was down 51-29.
Third quarter
Both teams came out cold to start the third with neither team hitting a three in the quarter. The Thunderbirds shot just 17.6% from the field while the Hawks shot 31.3%. With all this said, Saint Joseph’s held a comfortable 61-37 lead.
Fourth quarter
With the game out of reach, both teams brought in their reserves to come in and play. SUU Freshman Olivia Malafu and Sierra Chambers combined for 10 points in the quarter but the Hawks won the game 82-53.
Key statistics
— Ziegler scored a career-high 30 points.
— Sydney Gandy led the team with four assists.
— Saint Joseph’s shot 55.9% from the field and 50% from three.
— Southern Utah had 12 offensive rebounds.
What’s next?
Southern Utah will be back at home when it hosts Bethesda University of California on Friday, Nov. 22, at 6:30 p.m. This game will be streamed on ESPN+.
Author: Jack Paul
Photographer: Gannon Lovisa
Editor: Michele Fogg
