The Benedictine Mesa Redhawks showed grit and determination but ultimately fell to the #6-ranked University of Providence (Mont.) in a tough 51-81 loss.
 
The game began with a tightly contested first quarter, as Benedictine Mesa kept pace with Providence's strong start. After an early 4-0 deficit, Alize Ruiz sparked the Redhawks' offense with consecutive layups to tie the game at 4-4. Ruiz continued to shine, scoring from the line and from midrange to give the Redhawks a 12-10 lead midway through the quarter. Contributions from Naomi Elliot and free throws by Angelique Moreno helped Benedictine maintain their edge, but a late free throw from Providence tied the game at 16-16 at the end of the first.
 
The Redhawks battled hard in the second quarter, with key contributions from Nyah Henderson and Dyamond Butler-Worle. A smooth layup by Henderson and a midrange jumper from Butler-Worle kept Benedictine competitive. Naomi Elliot provided a late spark, hitting free throws and a jumper to narrow the gap. However, Providence capitalized on turnovers and found their rhythm offensively, including a clutch three-pointer by Ashlee Maldonado, to take a 32-25 lead into halftime.
 
The third quarter proved challenging for Benedictine Mesa, as Providence outscored the Redhawks 32-10 with a dominant offensive display. Despite early energy from substitutions like Naomi Elliot and Angelique Moreno, and an opening jumper by Ruiz, the Redhawks struggled against Providence's relentless pressure. Keanna Salave'a led the charge for Providence, dominating inside and helping her team widen the gap to 64-32 by the quarter's end. Benedictine's efforts, including defensive rebounds and flashes of offensive success, were not enough to stem the tide.
 
In the final quarter, Benedictine Mesa continued to fight despite the large deficit. Alize Ruiz led the way with consistent scoring, including a three-point play and a jumper, while Angelique Moreno added a late three-pointer. Defensive rebounds by Alize Ruiz and contributions from Danaya Murray and Nyah Henderson helped the Redhawks finish strong, even outscoring Providence late in the period. However, the final buzzer sealed an 81-51 victory for Providence.
 
Key Performers

• Alize Ruiz: 20 points, 12 rebounds, 2 steals
• Naomi Elliot: 11 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 assist
• Dyamond Butler-Worle: 7 rebounds, 2 points

Next Up
The Redhawks will return to action on Saturday, November 23rd, hosting Cal Tribal in an exhibition game at 11 AM.