In a closely contested road game in Oshawa, Ont., the University of Toronto Varsity Blues women’s basketball team fell by a final score of 69-60 on Saturday (Nov. 23) night.
The Blues started the game strong, leading at the end of each of the first three quarters of action. Toronto was especially effective both offensively and defensively at the three point line, shooting over 34 percent from beyond the arc, while limiting the Ridgebacks to just five made three-pointers on 29 total three-point field goals. However, in the fourth quarter Toronto ran into turnover trouble, which allowed Ontario Tech to close the gap and secure the win on home court.
Blues second-year guard Raya Hafez was tremendous on the night, delivering an impressive career best 25 points, including six made three-pointers. She also contributed four rebounds, one assist, and a steal in 35 minutes on the court. First-year guard Lia Barbieri added 11 points for the Blues, also providing an active defence, along with playmaking ability with three assists. Second-year forward Jade Diwandja Djemba continued to be a strong presence in the paint, securing nine rebounds and registering eight points.
For the Ridgebacks, Kaleah Gosse tallied a team-high 20 points, while Elliot Cowan added 11 points and five steals off the bench.
The Varsity Blues will look to regroup and fine-tune as they prepare for their next matchup against the Ottawa Gee-Gees next Friday (Nov. 29) at Goldring Centre. Tip-off for the ‘PA Day’ game is scheduled for 11 a.m., with tickets free on varsityblues.ca/tickets and the game streamed on oua.tv.
