Notre Dame Vs. Umass Minutewomen Women's Basketball
The Notre Dame women's basketball team competed against the UMass Minutewomen on December 10, 2021. The game was held at the Purcell Pavilion at Notre Dame's campus in Indiana. The Fighting Irish were coming off of a 73-79 loss to Maryland, while the Minutewomen were coming off of a 59-67 loss to Boston College. This article will break down the game and provide a detailed analysis of the key players, strategies, and outcomes.
First Half
The game started off with both teams struggling to find their rhythm. Notre Dame scored the first points of the game, but UMass quickly responded with a layup. The Fighting Irish were able to maintain a lead throughout the first quarter, but the Minutewomen kept the game within reach.
In the second quarter, Notre Dame's offense started to pick up momentum. Senior guard Destinee Walker scored 10 points in the quarter, helping the Fighting Irish extend their lead. UMass struggled to find their offensive groove and went on a scoring drought, allowing Notre Dame to go on a 12-0 run. The Fighting Irish ended the first half with a 39-22 lead.
Second Half
The Minutewomen came out with more energy in the second half and were determined to close the gap. UMass scored the first five points of the third quarter, but Notre Dame responded with back-to-back three-pointers from Anaya Peoples and Dara Mabrey. The Fighting Irish continued to maintain their lead throughout the third quarter, but the Minutewomen were able to cut into their deficit and ended the quarter trailing 57-44.
The fourth quarter was intense, with both teams fighting for the win. Notre Dame's defense was able to keep UMass from closing the gap, but the Minutewomen were persistent. They went on a 6-0 run midway through the quarter, but Notre Dame responded with clutch plays from Walker and Olivia Miles. The Fighting Irish were able to hold on to their lead and ended the game with a 75-61 victory.
Key Players
Destinee Walker was the standout player for Notre Dame, finishing the game with 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. Anaya Peoples also had a solid performance, scoring 14 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. For UMass, Kayla Battles led the team with 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists. Kiersten Walker and Destiney Philoxy also had strong performances, scoring 12 points each.
Takeaways
The win was much-needed for Notre Dame, who had lost their previous two games. The Fighting Irish showed that they are capable of bouncing back and playing with intensity. UMass played with determination throughout the game, but ultimately could not overcome Notre Dame's lead. Both teams showed moments of brilliance, but it was Notre Dame's consistent performance that secured the win.
Conclusion
The Notre Dame women's basketball team was able to secure a 75-61 victory over the UMass Minutewomen on December 10, 2021. The Fighting Irish had a strong offensive performance and were able to maintain their lead throughout the game. UMass played with determination, but ultimately could not overcome Notre Dame's lead. The win was much-needed for Notre Dame, who had lost their previous two games. Both teams showed moments of brilliance, but it was Notre Dame's consistent performance that secured the win.
