Women's Basketball: Tigers Smash Broncs, end skid

The Tigers employed a starting lineup that included three freshmen — guard Laura Johnson, center Devona Allgood and guard Lauren Edwards — marking the first time that head coach Courtney Banghart has started three newcomers. The new lineup showed no signs of indecision, however, and set a strong tone that the team carried throughout the game.

“We’re looking to ultimately get to the point where all 14 can contribute,” Banghart said. “Tonight’s starting lineup helped us shake things up a bit and get contributions from different people. We’re going to need to rely on a well-balanced attack as we head into Ivy League play.”

Princeton featured a well-balanced attack throughout the night and converted multiple layups from backdoor looks. The Tigers were led by sophomore guard Krystal Hill’s 14 points on six-of-eight shooting. Allgood scored 12 points and grabbed 16 boards, and the Tigers relied on her dominant inside presence all night. Whenever the Broncos penetrated the first layer of Princeton’s defense, Allgood or junior center Cheryl Stevens were in position as an effective second line of defense.

The Tigers defeated Rider without a dominant effort from sophomore forward Addie Micir, the leading scorer who had been averaging 13 points a game. Micir only attempted seven shots all night, choosing instead to play within an offense that repeatedly looked for inside penetration.

“I think it was good that we showed excellent offensive balance tonight, and I credit Addie’s unselfish attitude,” Banghart said. “Granted we will need to get Addie more than seven shots a game as we enter Ivy League play.”

Princeton started out strong in front of the home crowd at Jadwin Gymnasium and jetted out to an early lead. Midway through the first half, however, the Tigers buckled offensively and allowed the Broncos to cut the lead to 24-21. Princeton regrouped to close the half powerfully and establish momentum for a dominant second half, heading into the locker room with a 34-25 lead.

In the second half, Princeton controlled the game, eventually leading by as many as 17 points with just over six minutes remaining. Rider applied full-court pressure in its comeback effort, but Princeton’s guards remained unfazed.

The game was a much-needed win for the Tigers, and they hope it gives them the boost it needs as the demanding Ivy League schedule commences.

“We had been frustrated by playing very well and losing in three consecutive games,” Banghart said. “It was good to get a win in front of our home crowd and hopefully establish some momentum for the weeks to come.”