Centenary University women’s basketball team won a close game, 84-74, against Marywood University women’s basketball team at the John M. Reeves Recreational Center on Wednesday, Feb. 7.

During Centenary’s Senior Night event, Centenary hosted two basketball games against Marywood. The women’s basketball game began at 6 p.m., and the men’s basketball game at 8 p.m.

The last time the Lady Cyclones met on the basketball court against the Lady Pacers, they faced defeat 52-60 in Pennsylvania. 

The tides turned in favor of Centenary when the Cyclones wreaked havoc with their offensive strike and superb defense.

“Our women’s basketball team has significantly improved this year,” said Chelsea Cordice, student sports photographer at Centenary.

During the first two quarters of the game, the Cyclones maintained the lead against the Pacers. 

The Cyclones secured 23 points in the first quarter, and another 17 in the second quarter. By the end of both quarters, The Pacers scored 16 points each. This allowed Centenary to begin with an explosive first half, 40-32 against Marywood.

When the third quarter began, the stakes rose between the Cyclones and the Pacers. The Pacers were able to outmatch their opponent with 22 additional points on their tally. The Cyclones remained close with 19 points.

With encouragement from the crowd, the Cyclones remained resilient to defeat the Pacers. 

During the fourth quarter, the Cyclones snatched 25 points in contrast to the 20 points earned by the Pacers. As a result, the Cyclones outscored the Pacers 84-74.

Centenary freshman, Vatijah Davis, led all scorers with 31 points and 18 rebounds in the victory. Centenary junior, Brie Opdyke, followed with 25 points and 8 rebounds.

Marywood sophomore, Mia Blume, led the Pacers with 17 points in the loss.

Two students at Centenary, Joshua Scialom and Jullian Ulanowski, offered concessions to the large crowds attending the game.

“I think the best player in the women’s basketball team is Brie Opdyke,” said Ulanowski.

“It’s an exciting time for the Cyclones as they continue to test teams in our conference,” added Cordice.

Centenary’s regular basketball season will end on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, against Marymount University in Arlington, VA. The team is anticipating the high seed for playoff competition.

Keep up the good work, Cyclones!