Atherton, CA- Menlo Women's Basketball was back on their home court for a showdown with the visiting Dominican University Penguins. After a tough loss against Westcliff University at the Bill Holtz Classic the Oaks were clearly dialed in from the tip and were looking to make a statement. Thanks to a scorching hot start from the field in the first quarter the Oaks jumped out to a commanding 26-9 first quarter lead and never looked back.
Offense Finds Its Groove
Coming into this game the Oaks had struggled to find a rhythm on the offensive side of the ball. Through two games the team was shooting under 40% from the field and had struggled from behind the arc. Yet, today's game would serve as a return to form for coach Spataro's squad. For the game Menlo shot 56.6% from the floor and 40% from three. The duo of Kiara Brown and Alberte Frisch led the way combining for 30 points with both players shooting over 50% from the field. Brown would add 11 rebounds while Frisch knocked down two threes.
The rest of the lineup was also effective from the field as well. Starting point guard Shay Boley was all over the boxscore with six points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Her return to the rotation has been most impressive as a playmaker. Boley is up to 23 assists in three games as she is averaging just under eight assists per game.
Lastly, Menlo's second unit was incredibly impactful in their minutes of action. The trio of Frida Schmidt, Aliya Hunter and Mehkia Applewhite provided a huge boost in their minutes of action. The three players combined to score 18 points and grab seven rebounds while shooting seven for seven from the field. Schmidt showcased her ability to space the floor as she hit two threes. Applewhite and Hunter found success putting the ball onto the floor and getting to the basket for tough finishes at the rim.
Defense Stands Tall
While the offensive firepower was on full display, the Oaks' work on the less glamorous end of the court was also critical to the teams success. For the game Menlo held the Penguins to 34% shooting from the floor and 20% shooting from three. Most notably was the impressive first quarter the Oaks put together as Dominican could only muster nine points in 10 minutes of action. Not only did they limit the quality looks Dominican had at the rim but Menlo also won the rebounding battle 41-34. While Brown had a game high 11 rebounds, Frisch, Boley and Jordyn Rosette all chipped in at least four boards as well. Lastly, the team forced 19 turnovers which was critical in securing extra possessions and shot attempts.
Up Next…
The team will enjoy one day of recovery before getting back on the road to take on the Pioneers of Pacific Union College. Menlo is an outstanding 34-0 against the Pioneers in their matchups dating back to the 2001 season. With the momentum generated from today's win, coaches Spataro and Rogers will look to keep the streak alive and bump that total up to 35 victores!
