Box Score

THUNDER BAY, ON - For the second time this weekend, the Mustangs set up to take on the Thunderwolves at the Thunderdome, aiming to extend their six-game win streak. 

The game started slower than the last in terms of scoring, with relatively low numbers in the first minutes for both teams. However, the pace quickly picked up on both ends of the court. In what was already proving to be a very physical game offensively and defensively, both teams began the game with great intensity. At times, the game appeared rushed as both the Mustangs and Thunderwolves were consistently under exceptional pressure, resulting in some quick shots and sloppy passing from both teams briefly. However, the Mustangs did an excellent job capitalizing on steals and offensive rebounds not long after, pulling ahead of the Thunderwolves to end the quarter up 8-21. 

 

The second quarter action was just as intense. The Mustangs were able to transition rapidly down the court as soon as they gained possession and converted these plays to points. Madalyn Picton brought the score up to 8-25 with a layup off a turnover, just over a minute into the quarter. The solid defensive pressure the Mustangs displayed in the first 10 persisted, causing Lakehead to rush more shots and attempt quick plays, many unsuccessful. This, in conjunction with Western's consistent full-court press, resulted in the Mustangs extending their lead to 20 points, with the scoreboard reading 19-39 at halftime, compared to last night's game, which was much closer with only a 3 point lead for Western. 

 

While the third quarter began with the Thunderwolves scoring almost immediately, the Mustangs quickly transitioned down to the offensive end. They started swinging the ball around the court before passing to Picton, who sank a three-point shot from the corner. While Lakehead was able to keep up the incredible defensive pressure from earlier in the game, it was no match for the extraordinary shot-making ability we saw from Western, who was very influential in their playmaking and taking advantage of their open player, drawing their lead up to 32 points heading into the final quarter at 35-67. 

 

The final 10 minutes, while defined by a significant 30 point deficit for Lakehead, wasn't lacking in the intensity from either team. The Mustangs could sink efficient shots whenever they had an open attempt, especially Ariane Saumure, who made several open baskets. This quarter remained fast-paced, and the Thunderwolves didn't give up and pushed the Mustangs right until the final buzzer. The game ended with the Mustangs defeating the Lakehead Thunderwolves once again, the final score at 52-85. 

The Mustangs will play their next game in the new-year, on January 12 against Laurier, in Waterloo at 6pm. Fans can watch live at OUA.tv.