Rochester, N.Y. - A second-place finish in the conference meant that the Redhawks were playing their first playoff game at home against the third-place St. Thomas Aquinas Spartans. During the regular season, the Redhawks split games with STAC down in Sparkill, N.Y., so a home-court advantage was key in the postseason victory.
The Redhawks started the game hot, ending the first quarter with a 16-7 edge. The Spartans went on a 20-10 scoring streak in the second quarter to go into the half on top, 27-26. The Redhawks used the break to regain their composure and come out determined in the second half. Solid offensive and defensive play kept the Redhawks ahead, outscoring the Spartans in both the third and fourth quarters.
The final-four game was played very evenly with both teams shooting close to 40% from the field. The Redhawks shot 24-for-57 (42.1%) from the field, 8-for-20 (40%) from three, and 6-for-10 (60%) from the free throw line. They outrebounded the Spartans 35-31 and had 26 points in the paint compared to STAC's 14.
Four of the Redhawks starters scored in double-digits, making up most of the score. Sophomore Madison McCormick and Junior Taryn Wilson notched 15 points each. McCormick shot an impressive 5-for-7 from the field and 5-for-6 from three. Wilson played a well-rounded game with 9 rebounds, 6 steals, and 3 assists. Junior Dimitra Gkizani finished with 14 points and eight rebounds while Senior Paige McCormick recorded 10 points, six rebounds, and two assists. Coming off the bench, Freshman Danielle DiCintio recorded a season-high seven assists.
Provided by the Roberts Wesleyan Sports Information Department.
