Eads Shines in Win Over Butler

Published: Monday, December 30, 2024

by Darren Worrell

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The Seton Hall women’s basketball team (10-3) continued its impressive run with a commanding 69-49 victory over the Butler Bulldogs (10-5) on Sunday evening at Hinkle Fieldhouse, earning their second BIG EAST win this season.

Coming into this matchup, Seton Hall had a clear game plan: limit Butler’s advantage on the boards, shut down Kilyn McGuff and Caroline Strande, force turnovers, and get contributions from multiple players. The Pirates not only met those goals but exceeded expectations in every area.

From the opening tip, Seton Hall took control. The Pirates played with aggression and fast-paced intensity, storming to a 38-25 halftime lead. Their defense set the tone, while the offense was as efficient as it has been all season, shooting 56.7% from the field, including 73.3% in the second quarter.

Jada Eads was the driving force behind the success, setting the tone early with 12 points on 5-for-8 shooting in the first half, including a 3-pointer. Eads displayed her quickness, vision and confidence, creating opportunities for herself and her teammates. Faith Masonius and Yaya Lops each added six points, contributing to a balanced offensive attack that kept Butler off balance.

Seton Hall's defense was relentless, holding Butler's Kilyn McGuff to one point in the first half and keeping Caitlyn Strande scoreless after she left with a knee injury. Butler shot just 26.9% from the field and made 1 of 7 three-pointers. The Pirates forced 11 turnovers in the first half.

Butler came out with more urgency in the second half, but Seton Hall refused to let it get close. The Pirates maintained their lead throughout, executing on both ends of the floor with poise and discipline. Despite foul trouble—12 fouls in the first half and 18 total for the game—Seton Hall stayed composed, showing its depth and resilience.

Eads added 14 points in the second half to finish with a career-high 26. She was dominant driving to the basket, shooting mid-range, and hitting free throws. This marked her fourth straight game setting a new career high, as the freshman makes a name for herself in the BIG EAST.

Other players stepped up as well. Savannah Jones, known for her defense, scored a season-high eight points with key shots. Kaydan Lawson, the previous game's hero, added nine points, four rebounds, three assists, and a perfect 4-4 from the free-throw line. Amari Wright contributed four points and six assists while pushing the tempo. Defensively, Messiah Hunter and Janiyah Bland-Fitzpatrick played tough on-ball defense, helping to stifle Butler’s offense.

Though Butler made a few runs in the second half, the Bulldogs never really threatened the Pirates. Riley Makalusky led Butler with 11 points, but she struggled with her shooting and had to rely on free throws for much of her scoring. Seton Hall’s defense remained locked in, and the Pirates controlled the game from start to finish.

After a complete team effort in the 69-49 victory, the Pirates will now turn their focus to the Villanova Wildcats on New Year’s Day. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m., with Chris Jones and Brian Henderson on the call. Pregame coverage will begin at 8 p.m. on WSOU.

Darren Worrell can be reached at darren.worrell@student.shu.edu. 

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