The game got off to a quick start, with Nainika Lebaka ‘24 winning the tip off and quickly passing the ball off to her teammates who didn’t hesitate to storm down the court. Sally Rolland ‘23 made the first basket for the Deerfield Doors, with Giorgia Santore ‘24 following not far behind. Giorgia made the most of one of the many steals made by her teammates, notably Elena Tskhvitaria ‘25 who was fearless in her challenges. In the 5th minute of the first half, Ellie Schiller ‘25 equalised by sinking a free throw, gaining momentum for Nainika to get a basket, quickly followed by Ellie again. Ellie then worked with Fiona Van Nice ‘25 to break away down the court, resulting in a two-pointer for Fiona. Cori Scagel ‘25 and Fiona scored a total of six points in the last 90 seconds of the first half.
Nainika got the team’s points started in the second half with a neat underarm shot followed by an impressive take from the middle of a packed paint. Westminster responded with a three-pointer, but Giorgia made sure to fight back by sinking a two shortly after, followed by Sally making a free throw and then a two in quick succession. Cori, Giorgia and Sally kept the second half moving forward, and then Mary O’Shea ‘25 sunk the last point of the game.
The Deerfield team went into the game with the goal of getting more rebounds and fewer fouls, and they completely smashed this goal. The first foul for the greens came halfway through the second half, and much of Deerfield’s offensive success was thanks to the determined rebounding and defense by every member of the team. It was a great day for the team, and we’re looking forward to our game against St. Paul’s at home on Saturday.