Princeton Women’s Basketball Dominates Maryland Eastern Shore, 81-62
Princeton women’s basketball showcased a powerful offensive performance, defeating the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks 81-62 at the Imperial Arena on Sunday afternoon. The victory elevates Princeton’s overall record to 5-1, while Maryland Eastern Shore falls to 4-4.
Early Dominance Sets the Tone
The Princeton Tigers quickly seized control of the game, responding to an initial four-point lead by Maryland Eastern Shore with a decisive 12-0 run. This surge established a significant advantage, culminating in a 17-6 lead after the first quarter. During this opening period, Princeton’s defense proved stifling, limiting the Hawks to just two field goals and forcing seven crucial turnovers.
Building a Comfortable Lead
Princeton continued to extend its lead at the start of the second quarter with a 14-6 run, pushing the score to 31-12 – their largest lead of the first half. The team ultimately entered halftime with a commanding 38-21 advantage. According to reports, Carla Berube’s squad maintained consistent pressure throughout the first half.
Hawks Attempt a Comeback, Tigers Respond
Maryland Eastern Shore demonstrated resilience in the third quarter, mounting a 12-4 sprint to reduce the deficit to 12 points, 49-37, with 2:54 remaining. However, key shots from Ashley Chea, including a three-pointer, and free throws from Sarah Lessig effectively countered the Hawks’ momentum.
Late in the game, with 6:23 left, Maryland Eastern Shore again narrowed the gap to 12, 61-49. But Princeton responded emphatically with a series of successful plays – including two three-pointers from Chea and Skye Belker, and an offensive rebound and score from Emily Eadie – to restore a 20-point lead, 71-51. The Hawks were unable to mount a further challenge.
Balanced Scoring Leads Princeton
Ashley Chea led the Tigers in scoring with 18 points and five rebounds. Skye Belker delivered a standout performance, achieving a team-best +25 efficiency rating while contributing 16 points. Madison St. Rose (14 points) and Olivia Hutcherson (13 points) also reached double figures, showcasing the team’s balanced offensive attack.
Princeton’s bench contributed a season-high 20 points, led by Toby Nweke with nine points. Notably, Sarah Lessig made her collegiate debut, recording four points and six rebounds in the victory.
Looking Ahead
Princeton will now travel to take on the Rhode Island Rams on Wednesday, with tip-off scheduled for 1 p.m.
