
The opening minutes of the Penn State DuBois and Penn State New Kensington saw both teams grappling for control, but it was evident that statistics would play a crucial role in determining the outcome. The players from Penn State New Kensington, led by Esther Cole and Destiny Batiste, were grappling to find their rhythm. Cole, despite a 4-18 field goal performance, showcased resilience with ten rebounds, while Batiste made her presence felt with a team-high 20 points, capitalizing on a 7-10 free-throw record.
On the other end, Penn State Du Bois was anchored by the dynamic duo of Natalie Bowser and Shannon Shaw. Bowser's remarkable 10-20 field goal shooting, combined with a new Penn State DuBois record 27-rebound performance, made her a dominant force in the paint. Shaw, with a 2-12 three-point shooting display, still managed to contribute 10 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing her versatility.
As the first half unfolded, the box score told a story of contrasting shooting percentages. Penn State New Kensington struggled with a 25.3% field goal accuracy and a challenging 15% from beyond the arc. In contrast, Penn State Du Bois boasted a more efficient 32.5% field goal percentage, with Shaw's 2-12 three-point shooting contributing to a 23.8% success rate from long range.
The game's narrative continued to evolve through the individual efforts of players like Rebecca Martin, whose 5-8 shooting, including a 1-1 record from downtown, added 14 crucial points to the Du Bois tally. Kelsey Stuart's defensive prowess was evident in her 4 steals, compensating for a tough shooting night.
As the final minutes approached, the free-throw line emerged as a deciding factor. Penn State Du Bois capitalized on their opportunities, boasting a 71.4% free-throw success rate compared to Penn State New Kensington's 55%.
In a climactic finish, Du Bois secured the victory with a final score of 60-52. The statistical battle reflected the intense nature of the game, with individual performances and team dynamics shaping the narrative. As the players exchanged handshakes and congratulations, the statistics told a tale of resilience, strategy, and the thrill of collegiate basketball.
DuBois will be on the road this weekend to take on Lehigh Valley Friday evening at 6:00 pm and Brandywine at Noon on Saturday.