Grounded: Tribunes Dominate Mohawk Valley Hawks

ROCHESTER, NY - The Tribunes delivered an impressive team performance, defeating Mohawk Valley Community College 88-69 and bringing their season record back to .500, now at 4-4. The Tribunes maintained consistent offensive pressure throughout the game, outscoring their opponents in every quarter. They showcased their depth and teamwork, particularly in a dominant fourth quarter where they scored 28 points to pull away decisively.

Gaby Lopez (Rochester, NY) led the charge with an outstanding all-around performance. She contributed 19 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists while shooting an efficient 60% from the field. Her three-point shooting was sharp, as she sank three of seven attempts, and she remained perfect from the free-throw line. Serenity Henderson (La Verne, CA) was the team's leading scorer, finishing with 21 points, and led the team in minutes with 34. Despite some shooting struggles, she added six rebounds and three assists, helping to keep the offense fluid. Maya Williams (Rochester, NY) was a force in the paint, securing a double-double with 13 rebounds and 10 points. At the same time, Shania Estrich (Rochester, NY) provided a crucial spark off the bench, scoring 14 points and making her presence felt defensively with three blocks. While not covered on the stat sheet, she was critical late in the game in bringing the basketball up the court, escaping the press set by the Hawks, keeping the clock ticking, and not giving Mohawk Valley momentum. 

The Tribunes demonstrated their strength on the boards, narrowly edging Mohawk Valley in rebounds 54-53, thanks not only to Williams, but also double-doubles by Skylah Kemp (Long Island, NY) putting up 10 points and 11 rebounds, and Zarriah Eldridge (Rochester, NY) putting up 12 points and 10 rebounds. Monroe's shooting efficiency catalyzed their win converting 85.7% of their free-throw attempts and 31.3% from beyond the arc. Their ability to move the ball was evident with 20 assists, showcasing excellent ball movement and unselfish play. Defensively, they were relentless, forcing 13 turnovers, 8 steals, and 6 blocks, which disrupted Mohawk Valley's rhythm and limited them to 32.1% shooting from the field, including a dismal 9.1% from three-point range. 

Monroe's victory was a testament to their growth and cohesion as a team. The win improved their record to 4-4, marking a strong 3-0 start in conference play. With balanced scoring, defensive intensity, and a clear team-first approach, the Tribunes positioned themselves well for future challenges. They will hope to continue their success when they travel to Aubrun to take on Cayuga Community College.

NEXT UP: Cayuga Community College | 12/3/24 (6 pm) | Spartan Hall Basketball Arena (Auburn, NY)