WBB: Syracuse Rolls Over Siena 102-65

By Noah Wolfe

SYRACUSE, N.Y — After falling behind early in the first quarter, the Syracuse women’s basketball team turned up the heat, overcoming a brief 12-6 deficit to win 102-65 against Siena.

The Orange’s 102 points are the most the team has scored since 2013, when they dropped 113 in a win over Maryland Eastern Shore.

Monday’s win improves the team’s record to 2-0.  It was quintessential Syracuse basketball, with stifling full court press and a constant barrage of three point shots.  

“I’m very proud of how we played tonight,” Head Coach Quentin Hillsman said after the game.

It would not be hard to find an offensive standout in the contest, as all five Orange starters scored in double figures.  Guard Alexis Peterson and center Brianna Day co-lead the charge with 19 points each.  

Peterson also chipped in 10 assists and was instrumental in setting up the offense throughout the night.  

“Coach always talks about pushing the ball, so that’s what I try to do,” she said, explaining the keys to her offensive success. “Keep the pressure [on the defense], push in transition and locate those who are hot.”

But it was senior forward Isabella Slim who had perhaps the most complete performance, coming away with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and six steals.

Despite the big win, Siena did manage to shoot nearly 40 percent from the field, including 11 three pointers.  The Saints even played into the second quarter with the score tied at 20.

“Off a defense like that, [scoring 65 points] is a huge accomplishment,” Head Coach Ali Jaques remarked. “Their press was tough to beat this whole game.”

Syracuse will look to continue its hot start when the team plays its first road matchup against Stony Brook on Thursday.