Credit: GR Productions
Pirates Push Past Bulldogs, Beat Bryant 55-39
Published: Saturday, November 16, 2024
by Nick Powell
SOUTH ORANGE, N.J - Seton Hall women’s basketball (3-0) continued its undefeated run with a commanding 55-39 victory over Bryant University (4-1) at Walsh Gymnasium on Saturday night. The Pirates’ defense took center stage, holding a previously undefeated Bryant team to their lowest scoring output of the season.
Graduate transfer Faith Masonius once again led Seton Hall’s offensive efforts, showcasing her scoring prowess with 22 points and adding seven rebounds to her stat line. Masonius’ performance anchored the Pirates’ attack, as she found success in the mid-range and capitalized on second-chance opportunities. Her poise and scoring touch proved essential in maintaining Seton Hall’s momentum throughout the game.
Seton Hall’s defense was a dominant force, with Yaya Lops contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Lops finished with 10 points and seven rebounds, asserting herself in the paint and providing a formidable presence that frustrated Bryant’s offensive flow. Her length and defensive awareness were key to Seton Hall’s ability to limit second-chance points and control the boards.
The Pirates also received a boost from freshman guard Jada Eads, who came off the bench for her collegiate debut, and made an immediate impact with her scrappy defense. Eads energized the team and the crowd alike, showcasing her tenacity and quick hands that led to crucial turnovers and deflected passes. Her defensive spark, alongside nine points including two three-pointers, added depth to Seton Hall’s collective performance.
The game was close in the opening minutes, as both teams traded defensive stops and struggled to find their rhythm offensively. Bryant, who entered the contest with a perfect 4-0 record, managed to keep pace through the first quarter but began to falter under Seton Hall’s relentless defensive pressure. The Pirates’ ability to force difficult shots and limit Bryant’s ball movement ultimately tipped the scales.
Bryant’s leading scorers were kept quiet, unable to find consistent looks against the size and discipline of Seton Hall’s defenders. By halftime, Seton Hall had pulled ahead by 10 points, with Masonius already in double figures and the defense holding Bryant to under 30% shooting from the field.
In the second half, Seton Hall continued to build on their lead, capitalizing on Bryant’s missed opportunities and converting them into fast-break points. The Pirates never relinquished control, maintaining a double-digit advantage through the fourth quarter. Bryant’s fatigue from playing back-to-back games became evident as Seton Hall’s superior all-around presence took over.
With this victory, the Pirates extended their winning streak to four games, including their exhibition win over Jefferson. They will now shift their attention to their first road challenge of the season, facing Cincinnati on Monday, November 18th. The game will be a critical test as Seton Hall aims to prove its mettle away from home and keep its perfect start alive.
The Pirates’ convincing win against a solid Bryant team especially showcased balance and defensive identity, aspects that will be crucial as they continue through their non-conference schedule. With standout performances from Masonius and Lops, and the spark provided by Eads, the Pirates have shown they are more than ready to face the challenges ahead.
Nick Powell can be reached at nick.powell@student.shu.edu.Posted in: sports,