WATERLOO, Ont. - In an intense matchup on Saturday night at the University of Waterloo's PAC Gym, the Waterloo Warriors outlasted the Laurier Golden Hawks to secure a 66-58 victory, splitting the season series at a win apiece.
The Warriors displayed strong offensive execution and defensive resilience, maintaining control for most of the game.
Waterloo started strong, capitalizing on early opportunities to build a 20-12 lead by the end of the first quarter.
Charissa Virr set the tone with a crucial three-pointer, while Kymora Stafford and Yemi Oladipo contributed with key jumpers to extend the lead.
Both teams struggled with turnovers, combining for 10, but Laurier stayed within striking distance, thanks to Brittyn Graves and Isabella Cotton's timely baskets.
Waterloo continued to push the pace, extending their lead to 44-27 by halftime.
Stafford and Laurier's Cassidy Hirtle played pivotal roles in maintaining momentum, combining multiple jump shots and free throws.
Laurier fought back with a late three-pointer from Kayleigh Rawson and steady contributions from Dylann Mazzuchin, but the Warriors' defence held firm.
The Golden Hawks showed resilience in the third, attempting to close the gap. However, Waterloo's balanced scoring attack, led by Nehita Oko-Oboh and Alyssa Renaud, kept them at bay.
Laurier posted just seven points in the quarter and, combined with Waterloo's defensive stops and key free throws, it helped sustain the home side's lead, heading into the final frame with a 54-34 advantage.
Laurier mounted a strong comeback attempt in the fourth, outscoring Waterloo 24-12. A late surge from Janet Enge and Miranda Campbell, with 10 of her team-high 13 points, including multiple three-pointers, helped cut the deficit to single digits.
However, Waterloo's disciplined free-throw shooting in the final minute sealed the victory, with Stafford and Oko-Oboh converting crucial shots at the line.
Despite Laurier's late push, Waterloo's steady performance throughout the game ensured the eight-point victory.
Having entered the weekend carrying a four-game win streak, the Golden Hawks will now look to snap back-to-back losses with just four games remaining this season.
Up Next
The Laurier Golden Hawks (8-10) start a home-and-home with the Guelph Gryphons (13-5) at the Guelph Gryphon Athletic Centre on Wednesday, February 5 at 6 pm.
Catch the action live on OUA.tv.
