Mount Allison stays steady to secure Kingston Cup win over UNBSJ

The Kingston Cup women's matchup saw the University of New Brunswick Saint John (UNBSJ) Seawolves host the Mount Allison Mounties, with Mount Allison putting together a steady four-quarter performance to earn a 70 to 53 win on February 1. With both teams looking to build momentum mid-season, Mount Allison's control of the glass and ability to answer runs proved to be the difference.

Mount Allison established themselves early. The opening quarter was a defensive battle, but the Mounties did a strong job turning rebounds into second chances and points at the line. Emma Roberts helped settle the offence, while Danielle Alexander set the tone on the boards. UNBSJ had trouble finding an early rhythm, and despite a late three from Kate Griffin to spark some energy, Mount Allison carried a 17 to 9 lead after one.

The UNBSJ Seawolves responded well in the second quarter and showed their best stretch of the game. Eden Searles knocked down a three, and Ainsley Green found space from deep as the Seawolves began to close the gap. Better ball movement and improved defensive pressure allowed UNBSJ to trade baskets and keep things competitive. Still, Mount Allison stayed composed, getting timely contributions from their bench and converting at the line to hold a 34 to 28 edge at halftime.

The third quarter stayed within reach, but Mount Allison repeatedly halted UNBSJ's momentum. Whenever the Seawolves strung together stops, the Mounties answered with a composed half court possession or an extra rebound that extended the play. Nora Miller provided a key spark with perimeter shooting, and Roberts continued to direct traffic. UNBSJ battled through Avrey Alward's aggressive play and inside efforts from Searles, but Mount Allison moved ahead 51 to 43 heading into the fourth.

In the final quarter, the Mounties closed things out. Their defence tightened, limiting clean looks and forcing UNBSJ to play from behind. Grace Tilley and Alexander added important late baskets, showing the deep options the Mounties have. Mount Allison outscored UNBSJ 19 to 10 in the frame to secure the 17 point win.

Roberts led Mount Allison with 18 points along with nine rebounds and five assists, while Alexander added 13 points and 10 rebounds. Miller chipped in 11 off the bench, including three made threes that helped shift momentum. For UNBSJ, Searles led with 14 points and seven rebounds, Alward added 12 points and three steals, and Green recorded 10 points and a game-high 11 rebounds. Emma Roberts was named Mount Allison's player of the game, while Eden Searles earned player of the game honours for UNBSJ.

--- Russell Malally, BSW '27 ---