Allen University Women’s Basketball Team Celebrates Opening Victory Over CIU
Columbia, S.C. —
The Allen University Women’s Basketball team kicked off their season in spectacular fashion by securing a commanding 96-43 victory against cross-town rivals Columbia International University on Friday night. This win not only marks their first game of the season but also the first victory under new head coach Olivia Gaines.
The match, held at Allen University, showcased a strong start from the Yellow Jackets. They jumped to an impressive 28-7 lead in the first quarter. This was largely due to their hot shooting, as they converted 11 of their 18 attempts. Meanwhile, Columbia International struggled significantly, managing to make only one basket during the opening quarter.
In the second quarter, Allen maintained their momentum, outscoring the Rams 27-9. This dominance continued as the Yellow Jackets again hit 11 shots, showcasing their offensive prowess. By halftime, the score stood at a lopsided 55-16, clearly defining the tone for the remainder of the game.
The team’s performance was marked by strong teamwork and effective play calling, allowing them to push the pace and create numerous scoring opportunities. Coach Gaines expressed pride in her team’s effort and execution, highlighting the defensive strategy that held CIU to limited scoring chances.
As the second half commenced, the Yellow Jackets did not ease up. They continued to build their lead, demonstrating depth and resilience. The final period saw several bench players getting involved, further highlighting the team’s depth and versatility. Allen finished the game by sinking 42 field goals out of 73 attempts, which translates to a solid 57.5 shooting percentage.
The game was not just a victory on the scoreboard; it was also significant for the program and its new leadership. Coach Gaines shared her enthusiasm about starting the season off on such a strong note, stating, “This win is a great way to kick off our journey together. The girls showed great effort and teamwork, and I am excited about where we are headed this season.”
This impressive win sets a positive tone for the Yellow Jackets as they look to continue their momentum in the upcoming games. With a solid foundation of talent and a strong coaching presence, the team is focused on building further chemistry and competitiveness as they move through the season.
Fans attending the game witnessed a performance that left them optimistic about what lies ahead. The atmosphere in the arena was electric, as the community rallied behind their local team.
Looking forward, Allen University’s next matchup will be critical as they aim to maintain their winning streak. With Coach Gaines at the helm, the Yellow Jackets are poised to face challenges head-on, eager to prove themselves in a competitive season ahead.
The victory over CIU stands as a strong statement regarding Allen University’s commitment to their women’s basketball program and an encouraging start for Coach Gaines. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how the team can build on this initial success and continue to develop both individually and collectively.
Ultimately, Friday’s game was a testament to Allen University’s hard work and dedication. With a bright future ahead, the Yellow Jackets are ready to embrace the challenges of the season, aiming for further victories and growth on and off the court.
