Columbia Dominates Ivy League Opener Against Penn

News Summary

In a thrilling Ivy League opener, the Columbia women’s basketball team showcased their prowess with a decisive 74-59 win over the University of Pennsylvania. Despite a shaky start for the Quakers, who struggled with missed shots and turnovers, they managed to briefly gain the lead in the first half. However, Columbia’s strong defense and key performances from their players allowed them to reassert control and secure the victory. With this win, Columbia sets a positive tone for the season while Penn looks to improve before their next match against Dartmouth.

Columbia Takes Command in Ivy League Opener Against Penn

Philadelphia buzzed with excitement on January 4, 2025, as the Columbia women’s basketball team stepped onto the court and displayed an impressive performance against the University of Pennsylvania, walking away with a strong 74-59 victory. This matchup marked the start of the Ivy League season, and it certainly did not lack in drama and competitive spirit.

A Rocky Start for Penn

The game didn’t begin very well for Penn. Right from the tip-off, the Quakers found themselves struggling. They missed nine consecutive shots and racked up three turnovers within the first few minutes. This shaky start only fueled Columbia’s fire, allowing them to quickly establish a significant lead. Penn’s sloppy play in the first half allowed Columbia to jump to a commanding 12-point advantage early on.

Columbia was not just capitalizing on Penn’s mistakes; they came into the game with a strong defensive reputation, having ranked seventh in the Ivy League for defensive points allowed prior to the match. Their defensive prowess turned missed shots and blunders from Penn into scoring opportunities that expanded their lead.

Turning the Tables

14 points. Sawyer helped inject some much-needed energy into her team during crucial moments.

The second quarter saw a brief resurgence for the Quakers. Penn went on a seven-point run, narrowing the gap significantly to just two points at one stage. Then, the momentum shifted even more when sophomore guard Mataya Gayle scored back-to-back baskets, granting Penn their first lead of the game right before halftime.

Halftime Changes and New Hopes

Columbia Comes Back Strong

12 points. Key shots from players like Riley Weiss and a series of three-pointers solidified their hold on the game.

Looking Ahead

Stay tuned for more updates on Ivy League play as teams gear up for the exciting challenges ahead!

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Additional Resources

• Columbia Lions
• The Daily Pennsylvanian
• Columbia Spectator
• ESPN Women’s Basketball Bracketology
• Penn Athletics
• Wikipedia: Ivy League