Panthers Secure Mid-Week Triumph
The High Point University women’s basketball team achieved a significant mid-week triumph by defeating Merrimack College 82-69 on Wednesday night. This victory marked the Panthers’ third consecutive win of the season, bringing their record to 3-0. The game took place at the Qubein Center in High Point, North Carolina.
Game Overview
The matchup saw the Panthers recover after a slow start. Following an early deficit, High Point exploded in the second quarter, scoring 31 points and taking a commanding 42-28 lead into halftime. The team maintained control over the remainder of the game, showcasing a balanced offense alongside strong defensive gameplay.
Key Players
- Aaliyah Collins: Led the Panthers with 21 points, contributing two rebounds, five steals, and three assists.
- Peyton Gerdes: Made a strong impact off the bench with a career-high 14 points and four steals.
- Chana Paxixe: Added depth to the team with 11 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.
- Dom Nesland: Contributed nine points and seven rebounds.
- Brecken Snotherly: Filled the stat sheet with seven points, five rebounds, and six assists.
Defensive Dominance
The Panthers displayed a formidable defense, forcing Merrimack into 27 turnovers, which resulted in 24 points for High Point. The team recorded an impressive 16 steals throughout the game, underscoring their defensive intensity. Coach Chelsea Banbury emphasized the importance of maintaining this level of energy for a full 40 minutes.
Next Steps for the Panthers
Following this victory, High Point looks to continue their unbeaten start as they prepare to host East Carolina University on November 16 at 2:00 p.m. The Panthers’ performance thus far under Coach Banbury sets an optimistic tone for the rest of the season.
With this mid-week triumph, the High Point Panthers are eager to carry their momentum into the weekend and beyond, aiming for further successes as the season progresses.