Women's Basketball takes down St. Ambrose

First Half

The Holy Cross Saints women's basketball team delivered a commanding first-half performance, asserting their dominance against St. Ambrose to take a 32-18 lead into the break. The Saints executed a well-rounded game plan, combining a balanced scoring attack with stifling defense to control the tempo from start to finish. The Saints established their rhythm offensively early in the first quarter, with contributions coming from across the lineup. Kayliana Hammel (New Haven, IN / Bishop Dwenger HS) showcased her scoring skills, putting in 7 points, including a three pointer and a perfect trip to the free throw line. Grace Adams(Elkhart, IN / Penn HS) was a force in the paint, adding 9 points and pulling down 3 boards while playing strong defensively with 3 steals. Allie Caldwell (Zionsville, IN / Zionsville HS) provided a scoring spark, netting 4 points with her aggressive drives and midrange touch. On the defensive side, the Saints applied relentless pressure and disrupting St. Ambrose's offensive flow. Their physicality on the boards and tight rotations forced turnovers and limited the Fighting Bees' offensive possessions. The Saints capitalized on their defensive stops, turning turnovers into transition opportunities and building a lead that continued to grow throughout the half.

Second Half

The Saints came out of the locker room ready to win the game, using their offensive efficiency and defensive tenacity to quickly put the game out of reach. Jordyn Smith (Granger, IN / Penn HS) was a standout, scoring 8 points in the third quarter alone on a perfect 4-for-4 shooting performance. Grace Adams remained a reliable presence in the post, adding 10 second-half points and crashing the boards. As the game progressed, the Saints' depth shone through, with the reserves providing a significant boost. Lilly Toppen (Demotte, IN / Kankakee Valley High School) had a breakout second half, tallying 9 points, including a smooth three-pointer and timely buckets in transition. Audrey Tallent (Plainfield, IN / Plainfield HS) and Carly Spradling (Canal Fulton, OH / Northwest High School) added critical energy off the bench, combining for 5 points and ensuring the Saints never let up. On the defensive end, Holy Cross locked down the Fighting Bees, forcing turnovers, contesting shots, and controlling the glass. Their effort translated directly into transition opportunities, which they capitalized on with precision. The Holy Cross Saints women's basketball team delivered a statement victory, beating St. Ambrose 78-37. 

GAME DETAILS 

Score: Holy Cross defeated St. Ambrose University 78-37

Records: Holy Cross (13-7) | St. Ambrose(6-13) 

Location: McKenna Arena at Holy Cross College