By: Nicholas Storms
January 28, 2026
Lady Cyclones vs Saint Elizabeth in Reeves gymnasium on January 28, 2026. (Photo by Nick Storms)
The Lady Cyclones of Women’s Basketball tipped off against Saint Elizabeth College as Alexa Osafo, forward; Vatijah Davis, forward; and Jasmine Sampong, forward; set the tone early, sealing momentum with three strong layups. Saint Elizabeth showed resilience and refused to back down, opening the game with a surge of three-point shooting that put Centenary on its heels.
Despite the early deficit, the Cyclones responded with disciplined defense, clear communication, and strong ball movement. With senior leader Sofia Mendez, center, checking into the game, Centenary began to settle in, focused on regaining control and shifting momentum.
Head Coach Rose Haller emphasized composure and execution as the Cyclones looked to regain the lead. Saint Elizabeth responded by knocking down jump shots, leading our cyclones to strategize a gameplan to get back in the lead. Davis worked effortlessly to get her team back in this game with extra layups on fast-break opportunities, including driving to the basket and leading up to free throws.
The Lady Cyclones got defensive rebounds while trying to find the rhythm offensively. It took some time, but they ended the first half down four points, 38-41.
Coach Haller and her team are looking forward to entering the second half, generating new momentum, emphasizing defensive pressure, and disciplined execution on both ends of the floor. Centenary started off the second half with renewed energy, tightening up defensively and scoring wide-open shots.
Both teams are playing competitively, but our Cyclones regained the lead by crashing the offensive boards. Saint Elizabeth managed to respond with layups, forcing the Cyclones to stay composed as the game turned into a back-and-forth battle. Ashanti Dewalt, guard, maintained the lead for the Cyclones as she sets her team up with layups and relentless driving to the basket.
The final score was 77-64 as the Lady Cyclones secured the win. They showed intensity, heart, and grit throughout the game, refusing to back down even in the close contest. The Lady Cyclones are looking forward to continuing this momentum in their next matchup.