Washington, D.C. – Riding senior forward Samantha Courtney's game-high 29 points, Roberts Wesleyan women's basketball managed to punch their ticket to the East Coast Conference tournament final. The 67-58 win over No. 1 NYIT gives the Redhawks their first appearance into the ECC championship game in program history.
Courtney was dominant in the game, going 11 of 14 from the field and 7 of 9 from the line in addition to grabbing eight rebounds and blocking eight shots.
With the game tied 34-34 at the 6:36 mark in the third quarter, Roberts Wesleyan took the lead for good after with a layup from Courtney. The Redhawks extended their lead late in the fourth quarter before hitting their free-throws down the stretch to give themselves an 11-point advantage with 31 seconds remaining.
Necedah James added 14 points for Roberts Wesleyan while Brooke Fields chipped in 13 points as both players were credited with five assists.
As a team, the Redhawks shot a solid 43.4 percent from the field while holding the Bears to just 32.4 percent.
The Bears out-rebounded Roberts Wesleyan 44 to 36 while the Redhawks forced 14 turnovers while committing 12 turnovers of their own.
The win marks the second straight win against NYIT for the Redhawks, who are now 2-1 on the season against the Bears.
Roberts Wesleyan will now look to earn another upset in the championship game Sunday at noon when they take on No. 3 Queens at the District of Columbia.
Release provided by the Roberts Wesleyan Sports Information Department.
