Box Score CINCINNATI, Ohio- The Mount St. Joseph University Lions, hosted the Pioneers of Transylvania University for their home opener. This game was a rematch as these teams had met on Thursday. The Lions came into the game with an (0-1) record, on the heels of a 66-44 loss to Transylvania. On the other hand Transylvania came into this ball game with a (6-3) record.
The Lions took the floor on Saturday looking for redemption from their loss on Thursday. They opened the game hot with an early three point basket from Carlee Daulton (Ripley, Ohio/Ripley Union Lewis Huntington), followed by another quick Daulton-basket off of a steal. The Mount went back and forth with Transylvania in the first, finding themselves trailing by a score of 16-15. The second quarter was much like the first, both teams playing great on the defensive end of the floor, allowing the half end in a 26-26 tie.
The third quarter was the key to the Mount's winning efforts, as they were able to gain momentum and build a lead off of a 24 point offensive explosion. Several Mount players got a hot hand, including Jaleah Fair-Harris (Columbus, Ohio/Centennial) who scored 9 of the 24 points. In the 3rd the Mount outscored Transylvania by 9 points giving them 50-41 lead heading into the final quarter of the game.
In the 4th the Mounts offensive efforts slowed down, but the Lions aggressive style of defense was able to aid in holding onto the lead, that they had built in the 3rd. The Lions were only able to force 2 Pioneer turnovers in the 4th but only allowed Transylvania to shoot 27% from the field. The game got close in the final minutes. Transylvania was able to gain a 53-52 lead late in the 4th. At the 1:59 mark Carlee Dalton drew a foul on a defensive rebound, sending her to the line. Dalton was able to sink both free throws, giving the Mount a 54-53 lead. With just three-seconds remaining, Dalton once again found herself at the line, the Mount still holding onto a one point lead. Dalton continued her impressive night from the line sinking two more free-throws to secure a 3 point victory for the Lions.
The Lions had several players that posted impressive statistical performances. Carlee Dalton posted the first double-double of her career, leading the team in scoring and rebounding with 19 points and 11 rebounds, while also adding 3 steals. Maddie Haberthy (Cincinnati, Ohio/Mother of Mercy) posted another double digit scoring night, adding 13 points. Fair-Harris finished the game with 9 points, giving the Lions an important scoring boost in the 3rd. All around each member of the Mount Basketball team contributed to the win, with an high intensity style of play.
The Lions look to continue their momentum from this win, against Rose Hulman on Thursday, January 28th. The game will tip-off at 7:30PM. Continue to check out msjsport.com for more updates on the season.
