Huskies drop 91-52 result to REDS

(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS upset the Atlantic University Sport leading Saint Mary's Huskies 91-52 on Friday, in the first game of their two-game weekend series at UNB's Richard J. Currie Center.

Reigning AUS MVP Jayda Veinot (Port Williams, NS) scored a game-high 24 points to lead the REDS. She was named Subway Player of the Game.

The REDS raced out to an early 6-0 lead on the strength of a pair of three-point shots, but the Huskies adjusted and drew even 9-9 before the midway point of the opening quarter.

Veinot scored a couple of baskets late in the quarter as UNB built a 15-11 lead. Jennifer Nkuah (Brampton, ON) added a couple of late free throws and UNB led 17-11 after the first quarter.

The REDS continued to pressure the Huskies in second quarter, extending their lead to 18 points at 37-19 with about three minutes to play in the half. UNB closed the first half on a 10-0 run, taking a 43-19 lead to the halftime break.

After scoring 17 points in the first half, Veinot continued her attack in the second. She hit a three-point basket early on, extending UNB's lead to 51-24.

The REDS led 66-34 after 30 minutes.

The home team outscored the visitors 25-18 in the fourth for a dominant 91-52 victory.

"UNB was a lot more determined," said Huskies' head coach Scott Munro. "They played good basketball. Every time they got a chance to make a shot it seemed like they did. We weren't engaged near enough defensively and it showed. They're a good team. They got on a run and were feeling good, and we didn't do anything to turn it in our favour at all."

Courtney Donaldson (Kelowna, BC) led the Huskies with 12 points, while Marlo Steenbakkers (Ottawa, ON) added 10 and recorded a game-high nine rebounds.

Katie Butts (Ottawa, ON) had a 21-point night for UNB, and Katie McAffee (Lower Knoxford, NB) scored 14.

With the win, UNB is now 6-4. The loss drops the Huskies to 7-3. The REDS and Huskies conclude their weekend series on Saturday. Game time is 2:00pm.

RECAP BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics
PHOTOS BY: James West/for UNB Athletics