OSHAWA, Ont. - The Golden Hawks delivered a balanced performance on the road Saturday, pulling away for a 68-52 victory over the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks.
Laurier set the tone early, holding the Ridgebacks to just five points in the opening quarter. Martina Errazo and Isabella Cotton were active around the rim, while Brittyn Graves and Kate White helped manage the offence.
The Hawks extended their advantage in the second quarter, using pressure defence and strong rebounding to generate extra possessions and push the lead to 27-13 at halftime.
Laurier finished the half shooting 38% from the field, with Graves contributing 13 points and Aikman adding key buckets.
Ontario Tech found more offensive rhythm in the third, outscoring Laurier 15-13, but Laurier's depth and shooting from beyond the arc helped maintain control.
Kayleigh Rawson and Maya Fuerth combined for five three-pointers, while Katerina Pappas and Ella Thomas provided steady play off the bench. Laurier carried a 40-28 lead into the fourth quarter.
In the final frame, Laurier's offence came alive, shooting 60% from the field and 44% from three to pull away for the 36 point victory.
The win moved Laurier to 3-5 on the season, while Ontario Tech remained winless at 0-8.
Keira Aikman led the way with a career-high 17 points, game-high 12 rebounds and five offensive boards.
Graves added 13 points, Cotton scored nine with seven rebounds, and Fuerth chipped in eight points.
Laurier finished with 42 rebounds, 13 points off turnovers, and 22 bench points while holding Ontario Tech to 27% shooting from the field and out-rebounding the Ridgebacks 42-31.
Up next:
Laurier travels to Kingston to face the undefeated Queen's Gaels (8-0) on Saturday. Fans can catch the game live on OUA.tv
