In a remarkable display of teamwork and individual brilliance, the Saint Joseph’s women’s basketball team secured an impressive 85-49 victory over La Salle at John Glaser Arena on Sunday afternoon. Laura Ziegler was the standout player, achieving a career-high 17 rebounds and scoring 22 points. The Hawks showcased their dominance throughout the game, extending their winning streak to seven consecutive victories and maintaining an undefeated record in Atlantic 10 conference play.

A Stellar Afternoon for the Hawks

On a sunny Sunday afternoon in Philadelphia, the Saint Joseph’s women’s basketball team faced off against La Salle inside the historic John Glaser Arena. The stage was set for an unforgettable match, and the Hawks did not disappoint. Laura Ziegler, a Denmark native, delivered an outstanding performance with a career-high 17 rebounds and 22 points. This achievement marked her 11th double-double of the season and the 32nd of her career, solidifying her place in program history.

The game began with La Salle taking an early 3-0 lead, but the Hawks quickly turned the tables, scoring 22 of the next 24 points to establish a commanding presence. By halftime, Saint Joseph’s had built a 20-point advantage, which they extended further in the third quarter by shooting an impressive 70%. The final margin of victory was 36 points, making it the largest win in the series since February 20, 2013.

Other notable performances included Mackenzie Smith and Gabby Casey, who each contributed 15 points with exceptional shooting accuracy. Aleah Snead and Paula Maurina added eight points each, while Emma Boslet led the team with six assists. The Hawks also tied a season-high with 25 assists as a team, showcasing their cohesive playmaking.

For La Salle, Ashleigh Connor led the Explorers with nine points and six rebounds, while Alisa Blalock and Jolene Armendariz also made significant contributions. Despite their efforts, the Explorers (7-9, 1-2 Atlantic 10) could not keep pace with the relentless Hawks (12-2, 3-0 Atlantic 10).

Reflections on the Game

From a journalist’s perspective, this game was more than just a victory for Saint Joseph’s—it was a testament to the team’s depth and resilience. Laura Ziegler’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, and her ability to dominate both ends of the court is a clear indicator of her growing influence within the program. The Hawks’ ability to maintain such a high level of play throughout the season speaks volumes about their preparation and commitment.

Looking ahead, Saint Joseph’s will return to Hagan Arena to host Duquesne on Wednesday, January 8, at 7 p.m. As the Hawks continue to build momentum, fans can expect another thrilling performance from this talented squad. The future looks bright for Saint Joseph’s, and their recent success suggests that they are well-positioned to make a significant impact in the Atlantic 10 conference.