The women’s varsity basketball team came up just short in a nail-biter against Episcopal, losing 55–52, on Saturday, Feb. 8.
The loss dropped their record to 2–16. This is GDS’ first year in the higher AA division of the ISL since winning the A division championship last year.
GDS won the opening tip-off, but Episcopal struck first with two quick layups. Freshman Raech McKnight got GDS on the board with two free throws, and the teams traded baskets early on. Play stayed consistent early on, with both teams taking advantage of their ability to score inside baskets. At the end of the first quarter, Episcopal had the lead, 15–11.
Freshman Jozi McDuffie started the second quarter with solid defense. She had a steal and two quick layups to help GDS tie the game at 15–15. However, Episcopal quickly adjusted, tightening their defense and limiting GDS’ scoring opportunities. Baskets from McDuffie and freshman Lindsay Fuzesi helped keep the game within reach, but Episcopal controlled the second quarter and maintained the lead, ending the half up 27–20.
GDS came out determined in the third quarter, with baskets from freshman Liya Fairfax and senior Evelyn Chen helping GDS cut the deficit down to four points. Despite GDS’ strong start to the third quarter, Episcopal found their footing and responded with multiple layups and strong defense. GDS could not convert many of their chances, and they ended up down, 40–30, as time expired at the end of the third quarter.
Despite being down, GDS headed into the fourth quarter strong. McDuffie scored multiple clutch step-back three-pointers and led several powerful drives to the basket that helped GDS lessen Episcopal’s lead. In addition, the team’s defense stepped up and forced multiple turnovers, which were crucial in GDS’ late-game surge. The team capitalized on McDuffie’s scoring ability by giving her many open looks, allowing GDS to make the score 54–52 with 13 seconds left on the clock and possession of the ball. Unfortunately, GDS could not tie the game on their final play and fouled Episcopal with one second left. Episcopal scored one of the resulting free throws, securing them a 55-52 win.
Head coach Pam Stanfield emphasized the importance of taking advantage of the small things. “We gave up a few offensive rebounds at the end, and if we didn’t, I think we would have won the game,” she said. “I think what we’ll learn from this game is that little things matter.”
Despite the loss, McKnight was optimistic about the team’s performance. “It was one of our best games offensively and defensively, and I think we executed really well,” she said.
Looking ahead, Stanfield expressed confidence for the final week of the season. “If we bring the same energy next week, we’ll be in good shape,” she said.
GDS will next play St. Andrews at home at 5:45 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 11.