Dicenta and Croft Lead Crusaders to Big Win vs Hendrix

November 13, 2023

IRVING, Texas - The University of Dallas women's basketball team defeated Hendrix College 75-55 on Monday night, improving to 1-1 on the year.

Dallas got off to a slow start, shooting just 25% as they struggled to find their rhythm on offense in the first quarter.  This was quickly rectified, as they bounced back in the second quarter going 10-of-19 from the floor.  

This surge was led primarily by Maria Dicenta (pictured), as she dropped 10 points, snagged five rebounds, and swiped three steals in nine minutes on the floor.  It was the start of what would be the best performance of her career.  The Crusaders took a 34-31 lead into halftime after trailing 12-16 at the end of the first quarter.

The Crusaders shooting woes returned in the third quarter and nearly let their lead slip, shooting just 26% in the third quarter and allowing the Warriors to pull within two points.  But a monster fourth quarter by Dallas on both sides of the ball saw them pull away with ease, taking a double-digit lead with four minutes remaining and building up to a 20-point margin of victory, their largest since defeating St. Thomas 73-41 last February.

Dicenta was the force to be reckoned with on the court.  She was tantalizingly close to a quadruple double, racking up 17 points and 11 rebounds for her first career double-double, while also recording seven assists and seven steals.  All of which are single game bests for her.

Caroline Croft went 5-of-8 from beyond the arc to rack up 17 points, making it the first time in her career she has had consecutive games with 15+ points.

Up Next

The Crusaders will host McMurry University next on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 5:30 pm.