Margaret BauerThe 11th ranked Washington University women’s basketball team took its five-game winning streak to Waltham, Mass., on Friday night to take on seventh-ranked Brandeis University (14-2). With the 70-40 victory over Brandeis, the Bears moved up in the University Athletic Association (UAA) standings, earning a tie for first place along with University of Chicago and New York University.
After starting the game off strong with a 21-5 lead, there was no turning back for the Lady Bears. At the half, the Bears led 32-17. The game was defined by clutch offensive scoring from seniors Kelly Manning and Hallie Hutchens. It was a career night for Manning as she knocked down six three-pointers in the game, a career best. Manning also contributed nine rebounds, three blocks, and a steal to the Bear effort. Hutchens also came through in the clutch as she scored 17 points in the victory.
It was an uplifting win against Brandeis, but before the Bears could celebrate too much, they had to travel to New York to face the 10th ranked NYU Violets (16-2) on Sunday. It was an important game for both teams since the winner would take sole possession of first place in the UAA standings.
In a game that featured 13 lead changes, it was NYU that put together the final big run to earn the win 63-55. The Bears were forced to field an eight-woman team, leaving only three bench players to come into the game when necessary.
Despite this disadvantage, the team held a 43-42 advantage with 11:32 remaining in the game but was unable to score for the next eight minutes, giving the Violets an 11-point edge. The Bears couldn’t hold them off and NYU left with the win. Junior Danielle Beehler led the Bears in three categories, including points (14), rebounds (7) and assists (3).
The Bears (15-3, 5-2 UAA) will have the chance for vengeance as they return to the court on Friday, Feb. 4, to take on NYU once again. Game time is set for 6 p.m. in the WU Fieldhouse.