HOUGHTON, NY – Despite a slow start, a swarming defensive effort lifted the Houghton Highlanders past the visiting SUNY Delhi Broncos on Saturday afternoon, 77-41.
In the first quarter Houghton converted only 2-of-18 shots, including 0-for-9 from three-point range. A 5-for-8 effort from the free throw line kept the game close, as the Broncos led after the first ten minutes, 11-9.
As the second quarter started the Highlanders full-court press kicked into high gear, causing 36 Broncos turnovers, leading to 34 Houghton points.
Quarter-by-quarter the Highlanders pulled away, scoring more than 20 points in each of the three remaining period while never allowing more than 12.
GAME VITALS
Score: Houghton – 77 | SUNY Delhi – 41
Records: Houghton: 1-1 | SUNY Delhi: 0-3
Venue: The Nielsen Center, Houghton College | Attendance: 173
NOTABLE STATS
>> Houghton hoisted 85 total shots on the day, including 46 three-pointers, both single-game highs since joining the NCAA in 2012-13.
>>
Natalie Rivera posted a trio of team bests with 13 points, five assists and four steals.
>>
Amanda Jackson scored nine points, while
Hannah Roeske,
Michaella Roth and
Jace Hunzinger added eight points apiece.
>> Delhi's Madilyne Kupris led all scorers with 14 points and added nine rebounds.
COACH'S CORNER
"Our team played really hard today. As a coach, it was fun to watch because we found a way to win when shots weren't falling.
"We have a ton of new players on our team, so it was nice to get the first home-game jitters out of the way before our big home-game stretch.
"We played team basketball on and off the court today. Our bench's energy never went down for the full 40 minutes. It is special to watch our women cheer on [their teammates] so effortlessly so early in their careers.
"I can't wait to keep growing with this group. Our best basketball is definitely ahead of us." –Head Coach
Phil Pellegrino
UP NEXT
The Highlanders return to the Nielsen Center on Tuesday, November 16 at 7:00 p.m. when they will take on the visiting SUNY Canton Roos.
