The Benedictine Mesa Women's Basketball Team clinched a thrilling victory against Westcliff on Saturday night, narrowly edging out a win with a final score of 62-60.
 
The game kicked off with Xairia Culver making a 3-pointer to put BenU on the scoreboard. Throughout the first quarter, both teams battled fiercely for the lead, but Westcliff managed to take control in the last 30 seconds, finishing the quarter ahead by 4, with a score of 14-18.
 
In the second quarter, the Redhawks rallied, tying up the game and briefly taking the lead. However, Westcliff regained control in the final 3 minutes, ending the quarter with a 4-point lead, 30-34.
 
The third quarter saw Westcliff extending their lead, though the Redhawks stayed competitive, benefitting from some fouls. BenU managed to narrow the lead to 8 points by the end of the quarter, with a score of 45-53.
 
The intensity peaked in the fourth quarter, with Westcliff initially holding a 9-point lead. However, the Redhawks mounted a comeback, with Boo Zeller and Maria Moore hitting two consecutive 3-pointers to bring the lead down to 1. Maria Moore's fastbreak layup in the paint then propelled BenU to take the lead. Despite Westcliff's attempts to foul and regain possession, the Redhawks hit crucial free throws, securing the win at 62-60.
 
Key Players:

• Nyah Henderson delivered a standout performance, achieving a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, along with 2 assists.
• Xaria Culver scored a career-high 12 points, complemented by 3 rebounds and 1 block.
• Maria Moore contributed significantly with 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists in the team's triumph.

Looking Ahead: The Redhawks are gearing up for an away stretch next week, facing Simpson on Thursday and UC Merced on Saturday in California.