Louisville, KY — Centre Basketball is proving to be a strong unit this weekend, as both teams beat Spaulding University in their first games back from break.
The first quarter started out strong for Centre, scoring the first basket and setting the early tempo with
Lindsay Jessie, who hit multiple jumpers in the paint, and contributions from Lily Reid at the rim. giving an 8-4 advantage that later extends to 10-6.
Spalding was able to keep pace, from mid-range scoring and in the paint touches, Nichole Hollowell and Ma'Kaylia Lute converting close-range opportunities. Brianna Bauer gave a boost off the bench, with a layup and later added a free throw to keep Spalding within range.
Entering the second quarter, Centre opened with strong interior plays, driven by
Trinity Armour, who scored quick layups to push the lead to double digits at 25-15. Spalding answered with baskets from Brooke McNeal, Zanieya Batiste and a three-pointer from A'Nieja Russell, closing the gap to five.
While their offense slowed down, the Colonels capitalised on Spalding turnovers, with steals from Edelen and Miles. Mid-range jumper from
Isabelle Combs and a momentum shift three from Miles to
stretch the lead again late in the quarter.
Start of second half, Centre was able to keep the tempo going, building on their lead with points from Reid, Nipp and Campbell, including layups and three-pointers. Spalding looked for a comeback with baskets from Batiste, Hollowell and Miller, but the Colonels forced turnovers and hit timely shots to extend the lead to 51-41 going into the final quarter.
From start to finish, Centre kept the pressure, dominating early with layups from Armour, Reid, and Edelen, stretching the lead further. Spalding made some baskets, but the Colonels' momentum of fastbreaks, three-pointers and free throws allowed a strong finish with a final score of 67-47.
Centre Colonels are back at home on December 6th against Covenant.
