WATERLOO, Ont. - Despite a strong showing, the Laurier Golden Hawks were defeated by the Guelph Gryphons 72-63 in a Senior Day match-up on Saturday to wrap a home-and-home.

From the opening tip, Guelph asserted dominance, controlling the tempo and making key plays on both ends of the court.

Guelph started the game aggressively, with Hannah Bourdon and Alexis Wright setting the tone early with key baskets.

Laurier struggled to find their rhythm as turnovers and missed opportunities kept them behind.

The Gryphons' relentless defence forced multiple errors while capitalizing on offensive rebounds.

By the end of the first quarter, Guelph led 28-14, thanks to a strong 11-point performance from Bourdon, who was perfect from the field and free throw line.

Laurier attempted to mount a comeback in the second quarter, with a well-timed three-pointer by Kate White and a few crucial free throws by Brittyn Graves cutting into Guelph's lead.

However, the Gryphons responded with a balanced offensive attack, including a critical three-pointer from Renee Armstrong and a layup by Lucy Tesseyman. By halftime, Guelph held a commanding 43-32 lead.

The Golden Hawks came out strong in the third, closing the gap with key baskets from Miranda Campbell and Keira Aikman.

Their tightened defence forced Guelph into missed shots and turnovers, but Armstrong and Bourdon hit crucial shots to keep the lead.

Despite Laurier outscoring Guelph and holding the visitors to their lowest points total in a quarter at 12, the Gryphons held a 55-48 edge entering the final frame.

In the fourth, Laurier fought back with Hirtle's three-pointer and White's rebounding, but Guelph answered each challenge.

Armstrong and Bourdon's clutch plays, solid free-throw shooting, and defence secured the win.

In defeat, White recorded her second consecutive double-double with a 16 point, 10 rebound effort.

This game was particularly significant for Laurier as it was Senior's Day for Hirtle, Janet Enge, Miranda Campbell, and Dylann Mazzuchin.

The seniors put forth a valiant effort, with Hirtle leading the team in scoring with 21 points and Campbell making key plays on both ends of the floor.

Although the Golden Hawks came up short, the day was memorable as they celebrated their graduating players' contributions.

Laurier's manager of women's basketball operations and head coach Paul Falco reflected on the game, acknowledging that his team didn't perform as well defensively as they had in their road win on Wednesday.

He noted their struggles in the first half but was encouraged by their resilience in the second, as they managed to rally and close the scoring gap.

At halftime, Falco explained how he emphasized the importance of returning to their defensive principles and playing with greater composure on offence, adjustments that helped fuel their second-half push.

Senior Cassidy Hirtle reflected on the game, emphasizing the team's strong second-half performance and determination.

"We showed a lot of fight, executed better offensively, and brought more tenacity on defence while pushing the pace in transition," she said.

While disappointed with the loss, Hirtle highlighted the significance of the day as the team came together to celebrate their seniors.

She described the moment as bittersweet.

"I'm so grateful for the opportunity to play university basketball alongside close friends and be part of the supportive Laurier community."
 

Up Next

The Laurier Golden Hawks (9-11) take on the #10-ranked Windsor Lancers (15-4) on Wednesday, February 12, at the Toldo Lancer Centre.

Tip-off is at 6 pm. Catch the action live on OUA.tv.