Salem Basketball traveled to take on an undefeated in conference SVU squad, ultimately falling 80-37.
The Knights got off to an early six point lead, but were soon answered by a three-pointer from Lauren Ringwood, assisted by Catherine Jordan Cano. Nicole Hester earned a trip to the free throw line soon after, sinking both to make it a two-score game. Amy Pedroza also got on the board, snagging a steal and securing a fast-break layup. The Knights continued to do well on offense throughout the remainder of the quarter, only broken up by two more free throws from Amy Pedroza.
SVU continued their momentum into quarter two, going on a 10-point run in the first three minutes. From then on, it was a defensive battle. Only one more field goal was scored for the remainder of the quarter. The Spirits were 5-8 from the free throw line, thanks to Anayah Noell, Cristina Battistini, and Pedroza. Salem also did well on the glass this quarter, grabbing five defensive rebounds and seven offensive rebounds.
The start of this quarter was more even, with both squads scoring six points in the first four minutes. Four different Spirits contributed to the scoring efforts this quarter, with eight of the 10 points being scored in the paint. Salem also snagged five steals throughout the quarter, resulting in four fast-break layups. The Knights were able to find their offense again in the final two and a half minutes, ending the quarter on another 10-point run.
Both teams put up their highest scoring quarter of the matchup, with SVU shooting at their highest percentage. Ringwood started out the final frame strong, with a strong drive resulting in an and-one opportunity. Battistini and Jordan Cano both tacked on a few more free throws, and Ringwood and Hester both scored a few more in the paint. Noell closed out the contest at the free throw line, tacking on one more point in the final seconds. Ultimately, the Knights prevailed with a 80-37 final score.
The stat leaders from the matchup were Nicole Hester and Lauren Ringwood with eight points; Amy Pedroza with four steals; Catherine Jordan Cano with four assists; and Hester with 11 rebounds.
The Spirits will next be in action on Saturday February 14th at 2pm for a Valentines Day matchup with Pfeiffer.
