Russell leads Axewomen over Tigers in lone game of the week

HALIFAX — The Acadia Axewomen used strong shooting and dominant rebounding to secure a 71-54 victory over the Dalhousie Tigers in AUS women's basketball action Wednesday at the Dalplex.

Acadia shot 39.7 per cent from the field and outrebounded Dalhousie 51-30 to claim the win.

Samantha Russell led the way for the Axewomen with 17 points, making six of 15 shots, including three three-pointers, while adding 11 rebounds. Bianca Helmig had nine points, eight assists and two steals, while Iris Leuschner contributed six points, going two-for-four from beyond the arc, and grabbed five rebounds. Bianca Minelli was active on the boards with seven rebounds to go with five points and three assists. Sarah Delorey provided a strong inside presence with 10 points on five-for-10 shooting and six rebounds.

Dalhousie's Melina Collins led her team with three steals. Madelyn White finished with 13 points and six rebounds, while Simona Matic added eight points, five assists and two steals. Samantha Manieri contributed 12 points and six rebounds, and Sydney Guker-Wickie matched Collins with three steals.

Dalhousie led 19-18 after the first quarter, despite Acadia's strong rebounding. The Axewomen pulled down 15 boards—including 11 defensive rebounds—and had six second-chance points. There were four ties and two lead changes in the quarter as both teams exchanged baskets.

Acadia outscored Dalhousie 17-12 in the second quarter, hitting three three-pointers and forcing five turnovers. The Axewomen capitalized with seven points off turnovers and took a 35-31 lead into halftime.

The third quarter proved decisive as Acadia dominated 24-7, shooting 60 per cent from the field and connecting on three three-pointers. Meanwhile, Dalhousie struggled, making just two of 17 shots. Russell led the charge with a three-pointer, a layup and two free throws, while Acadia won the rebounding battle 14-8.

Dalhousie outscored Acadia 16-12 in the fourth quarter, but the Axewomen's lead proved insurmountable. Acadia shot four-for-18 in the final frame but remained steady defensively, grabbing 12 rebounds and recording two steals to close out the win.

With the victory, Acadia improves to 12-5 on the season. The Axewomen return to action next Wednesday when they visit Saint Mary's for a 6 p.m. tipoff.