Troy Triumphs in WNIT while James Madison's Journey Ends in WBIT Quarterfinals
NEW ORLEANS – A gripping night of basketball concluded with Troy securing its place in the Great 8 of the WNIT, while James Madison faced a heartbreaking exit in the WBIT quarterfinals. Let’s dive into the thrilling details of these matchups!
Troy's Hard-Fought Overtime Victory
In an exhilarating showdown, Troy (22-13, 13-5) emerged victorious over North Texas (25-9, 15-3) with a nail-biting 88-86 overtime win in the WNIT. This marks a significant milestone for the Trojans, making them the last standing Sun Belt team in the postseason, across both men’s and women’s brackets.
A Record-Breaking Performance
Leading the charge for Troy was Zay Dyer, who showcased an exceptional performance with a double-double, ringing in 23 points and 13 rebounds. This impressive feat marks Dyer's 17th double-double of the season, solidifying her as a powerhouse on the court. With a season total of 363 rebounds, she now holds the Troy single-season record, a testament to her relentless effort and skill.
Not to be overshadowed, Shaulana Wagner also shined, contributing her own double-double with 17 points and 10 assists. Briana Peguro and Brianna Jackson each added 14 points, while Emani Jenkins rounded out the scoring with 10 points. As Troy prepares to face North Dakota State on Monday at 7 p.m. (CT) in Fargo, N.D., a victory could catapult them into the WNIT Fab 4 for the second consecutive year.
James Madison's Season Ends in Disappointment
While Troy celebrated its advancement, James Madison (30-6, 18-0) regrettably saw its season come to an end in a stunning defeat against Belmont (25-12, 15-5 MVC), losing 90-45 in the WNIT quarterfinals. The Dukes, regular-season champions, encountered a formidable opponent, with Belmont controlling the game from the opening tip.
The Impactful Game Flow
Belmont demonstrated relentless dominance, orchestrating a 39-4 run stretching through the second and third quarters. This staggering performance showcased their offensive prowess, leading them to set a WBIT record with 18 three-pointers.
For JMU, Angela Williams led the scoring with 10 points, while also contributing six rebounds and three steals. Ro Scott chipped in with eight points and two assists. Despite the disappointment of the loss, the Dukes' season concludes with an impressive program-record of 30 wins, a milestone that speaks volumes about their capabilities and achievements over the year.
Looking Ahead
As Troy gears up for their next battle against North Dakota State, all eyes will be on their quest for the WNIT Fab 4. Meanwhile, James Madison will reflect on a historic season filled with noteworthy accomplishments despite the unfortunate end. The excitement of collegiate basketball continues, and fans can’t wait to see what lies ahead for these talented teams.
Stay tuned for more updates on the WNIT and WBIT, and cheer on these remarkable athletes as they aim for glory!
