KELOWNA, B.C. — The UBCO Heat women's basketball team (8-8) was bested by the Mount Royal Cougars (8-8) 65-44, at the UBCO Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon.
Despite the setback, the Heat's defence shone with 15 steals, but the team faced challenges on offence, managing just a 21.4% shooting percentage from the field.
Kanani Coon led UBCO with 12 points, including two 3-pointers, and grabbed six rebounds.
Lily Pink orchestrated the offence with six assists and added three steals.
Tennyson McCarthy was a defensive force with three steals and two blocks while scoring six points. Stefanie Hart contributed seven rebounds and seven points, including one 3-pointer.
Asha Donnelly spearheaded the Cougars with 12 points, shooting 5-for-14 from the field and snagging five steals. Nora Luca was dominant in the paint, adding 13 points on 5-for-10 shooting while securing eight rebounds and blocking three shots. Temi Ajayi delivered a solid performance with 12 points, hitting 5 of 12 attempts from the field and recording three rebounds.
Mount Royal took charge early in the first quarter, capitalizing on efficient shooting to build a 20-8 lead over the Heat. Despite UBCO's persistence on the boards with nine total rebounds, they struggled offensively, converting just three of 21 field goal attempts.
The Cougars extended their lead in the second quarter, outpacing UBCO 19-14 to maintain their grip on the game. They took advantage of turnovers, scoring 12 points in the paint and sinking two 3-pointers. The Heat fought back by forcing six turnovers and making five free throws but at halftime, Mount Royal led 39-22.
In the third quarter, both teams scored 14 points, with UBCO converting five points from Mount Royal's five turnovers and benefiting from a strong defensive stand with three steals. Despite UBCO's efforts, the Cougars maintained their edge with a solid presence in the paint, scoring eight points from close range, which left them ahead 53-36 at the end of the quarter.
Mount Royal capitalized on turnovers to outscore UBCO 12-8 in the final quarter. Despite UBCO's strong rebounding performance, securing 12 boards, they were unable to close the gap as they settled for a split with the Cougars.
Heading into a bye next weekend, the Heat will be back in action when they host the Victoria Vikes on Friday, Jan. 30 at 5:30 p.m. Tickets for the game can be purchased by visiting GoHeat.ca/Tickets.
