DAVIDSON, N.C. — Davidson College (1-1, 0-0 Atlantic 10) defeated William & Mary women's basketball (0-1, 0-0 CAA), 71-50, at John M. Belk Arena, in the Tribe's season opener on Thursday.
The first quarter saw
Natalie Fox contribute a pair of free throws and bucket in the paint, but the Tribe faced challenges against Davidson's defense, which recorded two blocks and several steals. Despite their efforts, the Tribe trailed 12–4 at the end of the first quarter.
The Tribe shifted momentum with a series of triples from
Cassidy Geddes, making four in the second quarter, including one at 2:40 that trimmed Davidson's lead to just two points. Fox contributed with an and-one play at 1:10, pulling the visitors within two, 28-26. Despite the surge, Davidson closed the quarter by scoring the final four points, extending their lead.
William & Mary outscored the Wildcats in the second quarter, 22-20, but trailed 32-26 at halftime.
Davidson opened a lead in the third frame through efficient shooting.
Jana Sallman made a critical jumper in the paint at 6:51, temporarily halting Davidson's momentum.
Despite Geddes scoring a layup at the buzzer, W&M struggled to close the gap, outscored 16-9 in the quarter. The third concluded with Davidson holding a 48-35 advantage with 10 minutes left.
W&M sought to close the gap in the fourth quarter with a quick response from Geddes, who nailed a 3-pointer at 9:31, assisted by
Alexa Mikeska.
Monet Dance further fueled their efforts by hitting another 3-pointer at 7:25, bringing the score to 54–43. Despite the Tribe's comeback attempt, Davidson was able to maintain a comfortable lead.
In an attempt to shift momentum, the Tribe added points in the paint with contributions from Sallman and Fox, but it was too little too late as W&M fell 71-50.
Geddes scored 20 points and made five 3-pointers. Fox added 12 points and collected four rebounds. Sallman posted nine points and blocked one shot. Mikeska recorded six rebounds and tallied two steals.
The Tribe will host its home opener on Sunday against Barton College with the tip at 1 p.m. inside Kaplan Arena.
