The Benedictine Mesa Women's Basketball Team showcased a spirited effort and impressive defensive plays but ultimately fell to Montana Tech, 60-72.

Montana Tech came out strong, quickly building a lead. The Orediggers opened with a layup from Hadley Humphreys and a three-pointer by Aubrie Rademacher, jumping to a 9-0 advantage before Benedictine's Alize Ruiz put the Redhawks on the board with two free throws. Despite the early deficit, Benedictine fought back with key contributions from Naomi Elliot, Mya Johnson, and Dyamond Butler-Worley, closing the gap to 9-13. However, Montana Tech capitalized on second-chance opportunities and a deep three-pointer finishing the quarter ahead, 25-13.

The Redhawks worked to find their rhythm in the second quarter but faced stiff resistance from Montana Tech's defense. Fresh energy from players like Dyamond Butler-Worley and Mya Johnson kept Benedictine competitive. Alexia Wilcox's three-pointer sparked momentum, but Montana Tech's balanced attack maintained their advantage. Despite key plays from Benedictine's Butler-Worley and continued strong rebounding by Ruiz, the Orediggers extended their lead to 37-24 at halftime.

Benedictine Mesa mounted a comeback in the third quarter, fueled by grit and determination. Defensive rebounds from Xaria Culver and Ruiz as well as offensive production from Ruiz and Butler-Worley narrowed the gap. Mya Johnson's assists and timely baskets by Nyah Henderson and Butler-Worley kept the Redhawks within striking distance. While Montana Tech's Humphreys and Badovinac delivered crucial points, Benedictine closed the quarter trailing 43-49, setting up a competitive final frame.

The Redhawks left everything on the court in the fourth quarter. Defensive highlights included a block from Butler-Worley and a strong rebound effort by Ruiz. Offensively, Butler-Worley's free throws and layups, combined with Ruiz's relentless scoring, brought Benedictine within striking distance. However, Montana Tech's clutch shooting in the final minutes proved decisive. Despite the loss, Benedictine demonstrated resilience and teamwork throughout.

Key Performers

• Alize Ruiz: 17 points, 15 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal
• Dyamond Butler-Worle: 13 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block
• Naomi Elliot: 7 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals

Looking Ahead
The Redhawks return to action at home against the University of Pennsylvania on December 31 at 2:00 PM.