The Benedictine Mesa Women's Basketball team started strong on Saturday night but couldn't withstand a late push from Arizona Christian, falling 76–62 on the road.
First Quarter
The Redhawks opened with quick scores from
Naomi Elliott and a three from
Olivia Arvallo to take a 7–2 lead. ACU responded behind Emily Till and Shaylynn DeYager, using second-chance points and free throws to close the quarter ahead 15–9.
Second Quarter
Benedictine struggled early but surged back with a strong run. After a layup from
Alannah Northam,
Leanna Lepe drained back-to-back threes off assists from Arvallo, cutting the deficit to one. Arvallo then capped the half with a deep three in the final second, bringing the Redhawks within 28–26.
Third Quarter
Lepe stayed hot, hitting an early three and giving Benedictine its first lead of the half at 32–31. Arizona Christian answered with a trio of threes, but
Alexia Wilcox provided a lift with six straight points to keep the Redhawks close. Northam scored at the buzzer to make it 52–48 entering the fourth.
Fourth Quarter
Two quick turnovers allowed ACU to extend its lead, and the Firestorm controlled the offensive glass to build a double-digit advantage. Elliott hit a three and Arvallo added late baskets—including a deep three—but Benedictine couldn't overcome ACU's final push, falling 76–62.
Key Players
Looking Ahead:
Benedictine travels to face Utah Valley on
Monday, November 17 in an exhibition matchup.
