UPDATE: In a stunning upset, the Christopher Newport women’s basketball team defeated the previously unbeaten Shenandoah Hornets 64-49 on December 3, 2023, in Winchester. The Captains, coached by Bill Broderick, have now secured their fourth consecutive victory, showcasing their resilience even during a rebuilding season.
The Captains (6-2) were determined to prove their strength, and this latest win indicates they are finding their identity. Before the season started, Broderick expressed optimism if they could manage a 3-3 start. However, the team has exceeded expectations, overcoming setbacks from earlier losses to Bridgewater and No. 8 Johns Hopkins.
Fans are eagerly anticipating their first home game against Marymount, scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Freeman Center. The emotional impact of this victory is palpable, as the team continues to build momentum.
Leading the charge for the Captains, Sarah Pritz scored 15 points, while Elizabeth Creed contributed a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Hailey Kellogg also made a significant impact, sinking four 3-pointers for a total of 13 points.
For Shenandoah (5-1), which was on the verge of breaking into the top 25 rankings, Addisyn Banks led the scoring with 18 points, supported by Emily Williams who added 14. The Hornets struggled to regain their footing after losing their early lead of 4-3, ultimately falling short against the determined Captains.
In other notable games, the Bryant & Stratton Bobcats dominated Howard Community College 81-45, improving their record to 8-0. The Bobcats, ranked 17th in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II, showcased their power early in the game.
Meanwhile, the Virginia Cavaliers (6-2) cruised past Maryland Eastern Shore 92-59, with five players scoring in double figures. Kymora Johnson led the Cavaliers with 20 points, demonstrating their offensive prowess in front of a home crowd of 3,742 at John Paul Jones Arena.
In the NCAA Division I landscape, No. 1 Connecticut overwhelmed Xavier 104-39, with Allie Ziebell scoring 16 points and contributing to a season-high 18 three-pointers. The defending champions saw a balanced attack with six players scoring in double digits.
No. 3 UCLA also shined, defeating No. 14 Tennessee 99-77. Gabriela Jaquez delivered a standout performance with 29 points and five three-pointers, while Kiki Rice added 20 points, leading the Bruins to their eighth win of the season.
As the college basketball season intensifies, fans and teams alike will be watching closely for upcoming matchups. The Captains will look to maintain their winning streak as they face Marymount next, while Shenandoah will seek to bounce back from this unexpected defeat.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as the season progresses.
