WATERLOO, Ont. - The Laurier Women's basketball team was back in action on Friday night to take on the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees. The Golden Hawks were given a tough matchup for their first game of 2023, having to play the #6-ranked team in the country. Although Laurier kept it close in the first half, the Gee-Gees were able to lock down defensively in the second half and take the 73-46 win. 

The Golden Hawks played a good first quarter, led by Alexa Sawchuk's six points in the frame. While Laurier shot the ball efficiently, they were outrebounded, allowing for second-chance opportunities by a big Ottawa team. The two teams played very close, however, the Gee-Gees shot almost 60 percent from the field and 50 percent from behind the arc, while Laurier only converted on 36 percent of their shot attempts. 

The second quarter was much like the first, but Laurier shot much more efficiently from the field, resulting in 19 points. Laurier continued to struggle on the boards though, being outrebounded 9-3. While Ottawa was able to grab six more rebounds, they only outscored the Hawks 22-19 in the quarter, holding onto a 45-35 lead going into halftime.

The second half of the game took a turn for the worse for the Golden Hawks were only able to score 11 points combined over the final two quarters. The Gee-Gees dominated on both sides of the ball, outrebounding the home side 29-7 and outscoring Laurier by 17. Laurier also committed 11 turnovers in the second half alone. Overall, Cassidy Hirtle led the Golden Hawks with 12 points on the night.

TOP PERFORMERS
Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks
#7 - Cassidy Hirtle
Hirtle played a very solid game, recording 12 points along with a rebound, assist and steal.

Ottawa Gee-Gees
#6 - Alana Renon
Renon played amazing, scoring 17 points with eight rebounds and three assists.

UP NEXT
The Hawks (4-7) take on Carleton (8-2) on Saturday night at the Athletic Complex. Tip-off is set for 6 PM and tickets are on sale now. Follow @WLUAthletics for live updates and watch live on OUA.tv