With fans in the stands, the Washington University Bears kept their winning streak alive as they defeated the Emory University Eagles 76-63 on Friday, January 18.
Home court advantage had a big effect with an excited crowd and a fired-up bench supporting the team. The Bears have now won 18 home games straight while extending their current streak to five games.
The intense pressure created by a tough Bear defense as well as the cheers of fans played a large effect in forcing 20 Emory turnovers, although the Eagles were still making about half their baskets.
The Red and Green, who weren’t shooting as well compared with previous games, answered back by picking holes through the Eagle defense. Once they penetrated, the Bears either put away a bucket or quickly passed the ball to an open shooter for a shot from behind the arc.
The Eagles just couldn’t shut down the Bear offense as Wash. U. outscored Emory 36-22 in the paint. Even when triple-teamed, the Bears zipped right through. Though there were three Eagles hovering by the basket, junior Shanna-Lei Dacanay was able to drive through to put in a layup.
“This game was indicative of how competitive [the University Athletic Association] is,” said Coach Fahey. The lead changed six times throughout the entire match. Emory held a small lead with the score at 19-18 before two Bear three-pointers in the span of half a minute placed the Red and Green ahead.
“It was an all around team effort,” said sophomore forward Zoe Unruh. “The best part about our team is that at any point anyone can score.” Unruh led the team’s offensive effort with a career high of 20 points, junior Halsey Ward pitched in another 14 points while sophomore forward Janice Evans netted 11 points.
Freshman forward Kathryn Berger and junior Jill Brandt nearly had double-digit contributions Friday night with nine points each. Brandt was on fire behind the arc connecting with 3 three pointers.