HOUSTON, TX-- UST women's basketball team picked up a key SCAC victory on Friday night, defeating Schreiner University 71-60 to improve to 11-4 overall and 4-3 in conference.
St. Thomas set the tone early in the opening quarter, controlling the pace on both ends of the floor. Macie Whitfield opened the scoring at the free-throw line before Jaydia Morris and Kenna Gibson helped stretch the lead with strong finishes in the paint and a timely three-pointer. Defensive pressure forced multiple Schreiner turnovers, allowing the Celts to build momentum and and big lead to make it 26-5 by the end of the first quarter.
The Celts continued to dictate play in the second quarter, finding success through ball movement and interior scoring. Laura Jones and Yasmine Aly knocked down key shots, while Jaydia Morris remained active around the basket. Schreiner found some rhythm late in the quarter, but St. Thomas maintained control and went into halftime leading 45-20.
Schreiner opened the third quarter with increased energy, trimming into the lead behind perimeter shooting. The Celts responded with steady play from Whitfield, Gibson, and Amyia Bowie, who combined to halt the momentum and keep the lead intact. Strong defensive possessions and transition opportunities allowed St. Thomas to close the quarter ahead 62-39.
In the final quarter, Schreiner continued to battle, but the Celts stayed composed down the stretch. Gibson hit a crucial three-pointer and finished strong in transition, while St. Thomas converted from the free-throw line to seal the win. The Celts closed out the contest with a 71-60 victory in front of the home crowd.
Stat Leaders
Jaydia Morris led the Celts with 13 points on 6-of-12 shooting while adding 6 rebounds. Kenna Gibson followed with 10 points, knocking down 2 three-pointers and pulling down 6 rebounds. Macie Whitfield contributed 9 points and 5 rebounds, anchoring the paint on both ends of the floor.
Up Next
St. Thomas returns to action against McMurry University. The game is currently scheduled for Sunday, with the possibility of being moved to Saturday due to weather conditions. For updates, visit ustcelts.com or follow @ustwbasketball on Instagram.
