The Benedictine University Mesa women's basketball team used a strong start and a dominant fourth quarter to secure a 70–57 victory over La Sierra on Thursday night.
First Quarter
Benedictine Mesa set the tone early with defensive pressure and efficient ball movement, holding La Sierra to limited scoring opportunities while building momentum offensively.
Kira Nowell,
Naomi Elliott, and
Shyla Moore helped ignite the Redhawks' offense, while
Olivia Arvallo facilitated the attack with multiple assists.
The Redhawks closed the opening quarter on a decisive run, capped by three-pointers from
Elliott and
Angelique Moreno, to take a 21–13 lead after one.
Second Quarter
Benedictine Mesa continued to control the pace in the second quarter, extending its lead behind balanced scoring and active defense. The Redhawks forced turnovers and capitalized in transition, with
Moore,
Elliott, and
Arvallo contributing timely baskets.
Despite La Sierra finding rhythm from beyond the arc midway through the quarter, Benedictine Mesa answered with strong interior play and second-chance points. The Redhawks entered halftime with a 37–32 advantage.
Third Quarter
The Redhawks opened the second half with renewed defensive intensity, limiting La Sierra's shot selection and winning the rebounding battle.
Moore,
Moreno, and
Alannah Northam fueled an early scoring push as Benedictine Mesa steadily increased its lead.
La Sierra attempted to close the gap late in the quarter, but the Redhawks remained composed and carried a 51–44 lead into the final period.
Fourth Quarter
Benedictine Mesa took full control in the fourth quarter, outscoring La Sierra behind disciplined execution and clutch shooting.
Arvallo knocked down a key three-pointer early, while
Northam and
Leanna Lepe added points during a decisive stretch that pushed the lead into double digits.
The Redhawks' defense forced late turnovers and controlled the glass down the stretch, allowing Benedictine Mesa to close out the game at the free-throw line and secure the 13-point victory.