The Benedictine Mesa Redhawks triumphed over Park-Gilbert in a thrilling 76-65 win Thursday evening at home.
1st Quarter
Benedictine Mesa opened the game with a strong start, as
Nyah Henderson scored the first points with a layup assisted by
Naomi Elliot. The quarter saw back-and-forth action, with Park-Gilbert matching the Redhawks' intensity. A critical three-pointer from
Xaria Culver and a clutch layup by
Mya Johnson helped Benedictine edge ahead 27-20 at the end of the first period.
2nd Quarter
The second quarter was marked by fierce competition, with both teams exchanging momentum.
Alize Ruiz dominated the paint, securing rebounds and converting critical points to maintain the Redhawks' lead. Despite Park-Gilbert's efforts to narrow the gap, including key contributions from Kayla Schroeder, Benedictine's defense and timely baskets—such as a jumper from
Maria Moore—ensured they entered halftime leading 43-42.
3rd Quarter
The Redhawks tightened their defense in the third quarter, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on offensive opportunities.
Maria Moore, assisted by
Alize Ruiz, scored early to extend Benedictine's lead. Though Park-Gilbert fought back, tying the game midway, the Redhawks surged ahead with pivotal plays from Ruiz and
Alexia Wilcox, ending the period with a 55-50 advantage.
4th Quarter
In the final quarter, Benedictine Mesa's composure under pressure sealed their victory.
Mya Johnson sank a crucial three-pointer to extend the lead to 62-57, while Ruiz continued her dominant performance, grabbing offensive rebounds and converting at the free-throw line. Despite a late push from Park-Gilbert, Benedictine's solid defensive stands and clutch baskets from Johnson and Culver secured the 76-65 win.
Key Performers
Up Next
The Redhawks will return to their home court on
Saturday, January 25th, to face OUAZ at
12:00 PM MST.
