Crusaders Win, McPherson Drops 29 in Home Opener vs Hendrix

IRVING, Texas - The University of Dallas women's basketball team notched their first win of the season in their home opener Monday night, defeating Hendrix College 72-61.

The contest was evenly fought from outset.  For most of the first quarter the lead was never greater than two, with the Crusaders leading for eight of the first 10 minutes.  They took a six point lead with 1:22 left in the period, but Hendrix made it 12-9 with a three point play in the dying seconds.  The Warriors took a brief 13-12 lead early in the second quarter, but held it for all of 17 seconds with the Crusaders coming right back to tie it up.  The Warriors wouldn't lead or tie the game again in the first half.

With the Crusaders leading 32-28 at the start of the third quarter, the Warriors came out aggressive, putting tons of high pressure on UD and pushing them out of their comfort zone for almost the entire period.  Dallas found some form in the latter stages of the period, particularly from the free throw line going seven for their last seven, and were able to take a 47-40 lead into the fourth quarter.

The Warriors were far from out of the game, at one point bringing themselves back to within three, but some late foul trouble and the Crusaders most prolific offensive quarter of the game saw their lead extend to 11.  Dallas did their job at the free throw line and took care of the ball, committing just seven turnovers in the entire game, and were able to see out the 72-61 win.

Alyssa Sullivan was a consistent cog in the machine, notching 10 points with six rebounds in 30 minutes on the court.  Adryan Alvarez provide 14 crucial points off the bench as well as four rebounds and three steals.  And Canai McPherson had her second straight game with 25+ points, dropping 29 points with seven rebounds and three steals.

Up Next

The Crusaders are back in action this Saturday.  They will host University of the Ozarks at 3:00 p.m.