Women's Basketball earns important GNAC win over Suffolk, 72-55

(Nashua, N.H.) The Rivier Women's Basketball team defeated the visiting Suffolk University Rams this evening at the Muldoon Gymnasium by the score of 72-55. With the win, the Raiders improve their record to 11-12 (7-3 GNAC). With the loss, the Rams drop to 11-13 (7-3 GNAC).

Both the Raiders and Rams were fairly even in the first half. Coming out slow, both teams only accounted for 11 total points after 5 minutes of play. Despite the slow start, Rivier was able to break the ice and take the game to the Rams. With excellent pace, and accurate shooting, the Raiders were able to string together an impressive 13-2 run, forcing the Rams to call time at the 13 minute mark. Although the Raiders seemingly had all of the momentum, the Rams, with the use of some productive substitutions, were able to fight back and cut the Raider lead to just 5 as they trailed 25-20.

Caitlin Bulger (Quincy, Mass.) did a good job for the Raiders shooting the ball. Bulger was able to knock down a key 3-point shot for the Raiders, and was a big part of the fast-break offense for Rivier. Caitlyn Perry (Nashua, N.H.) did a very good job getting to the rim for the Raiders. Her aggression on offense resulted in foul trouble late in the half for the Rams. Savanna Butterfield (Londonderry, N.H.) contributed greatly to the defensive side of the ball. Using her length and athleticism, Butterfield was able to keep the Ram offense out of the paint and ultimately, as a result of her efforts, was rewarded with some nice blocked shots.

The Rams, who struggled mightily on offense, had no real standout in the first half. The starters, who generally produce the bulk of the offense, were nowhere to be found. It wasn't until Chelsea Campellone (Fall River, Mass.) came in that the offense began to roll. Using her size, Campellone was able to establish herself as the catalyst for the Ram offense. Alessandra Quadri (Sudbury, Mass.) was also able to establish her presence in this one. Although her size was her primary advantage, Quadri was also able to show her shooters touch, knocking down a few big jump shots.

The second half was dominated by the Raiders. Giving the Rams no good looks, the Raiders were quick to capitalize on defense and turn their efforts into scores on offense. All five starters for Rivier scored in double figures. Caitlin Bulger (Quincy, Mass.) finished with 13 points, Deanna Purcell (Hudson, N.H.) finished with 14 points, Caitlyn Perry (Nashua, N.H.) finished with 19 points, Savanna Butterfield (Londonderry, N.H.) scored 10 while Rebecca DeBaldo (Pelham, N.H.) had 11 points.

Holding the rams to only 40% shooting in the second half is what propelled the Raiders to victory. Rivier wouldn't let up, finally finishing the Rams 72-55. Suffolk had good performances turned in by Alessandra Quadri (Sudbury, Mass.) who was able to record 13 points and 3 rebounds for the Rams. Chelsea Campellone (Fall River, Mass.) scored 14 points and secured 8 rebounds.

In their next contest, the Rivier Women's Basketball team will travel to St. Joseph's College (Conn.) on Saturday, February 21^st at 6:00pm in their final regular season GNAC conference game. As for the Suffolk University Rams, they will play host to Mount Ida College on Saturday, February 21^st at 1:00pm in the team's final GNAC regular season conference game.