Seventh-ranked Westmont Women’s Basketball (1-0) recorded a 93-47 win against Bethesda (0-2) in its season opener Friday night at Murchison Gymnasium.
The Warriors shot 60.0 percent from the field (36 of 60) and 40.0 percent from beyond the arc (6 of 15).
The win was the eighteenth home victory in a row for the Warriors.
“It was a great team effort tonight,” said Westmont head coach Kirsten Moore. “Not only did everyone score, but we also had 28 assists. We stressed trying to focus on the little things tonight, knowing that all those things are imporant as we build toward our goals.”
Tugce Canitez scored 16 points in 15 minutes of play. She also pulled down six rebounds and dished off four assists. Cantiez made six of eight from the field and all four of her free throw attempts.
Freshman Karlie Storkson tallied 14 points for the Warriors on five-of-six shooting from the floor.
“We were able to get minutes for some of our younger players,” said Moore. “Karlie Storkson did great tonight. She runs the floor and plays hard all the time.”
Senior captain Jillian Wilber posted 10 points for the Warriors while junior Kelsey Sampson and sophomore Esther Lee each tallied nine. Lee also had for assists while Sampson pulled down six boards.
“I was pleased with Kelsey Sampson and her effort posting up inside and on the boards,” said Moore. Defensivley, she had four blocks as well.”
Sophomore guard Celina Gougis had a solid all-around night, tallying sevin points, six rebounds, four steals and three assists.
Bethesda was led in scoring by Kerie Brown who had 17 points and four rebounds. Linda Rivas notched 13 points and seven boards.
Westmont jumped out to a 26-2 lead in the first eight and one-half minutes and the outcome was never in doubt after that. The Warriors led 43-16 at halftime.
On Monday, the Warriors will need to change gears as they travel to Los Angeles to take on the UCLA Bruins in an exhibition.
“Coming off of a big (exhibition) win at Pepperdine, we can go in there with a lot of confidence,” said Moore. “Playing UCLA is a great opportunity. If you are a basketball player, you want the opportunity to play the best. UCLA should compete for a PAC-12 championship this year. The chance to challenge yourself against someone of that caliber is nothing but fun in my opinion. Our players are excited for the opportunity to go play against great competition and give it everything that we have.”
