The Lions demolish NYU 89-55, sparking high hopes for the season.
Despite only being ranked third in the Ivy League preseason rankings, the Columbia Women’s Basketball team is surely going to be a force to be reckoned with this year. The Lions destroyed Rutgers in a scrimmage last week; given that the Scarlet Knights are regularly a nationally ranked Big 10 Conference member, it is clear that the Lions are set on winning.
Aside from an NYU layup in the first 20 seconds, Columbia led the entirety of the game and went on a 14-0 scoring run in the opening minutes. After this run, NYU never reached within 10 points of the Lions and fought an unceasingly uphill battle from tip-off. The Lions took off in the first quarter, outscoring the Violets by 10 points. The second quarter was a bit closer, with NYU scoring just one point less than Columbia. Still, the Lions dominated the Violets and kept them from receiving any serious momentum in their favor. In the first half alone, Columbia shot a fantastic 60% from the overall field and were 62.5% from the 3-point line.
Halftime: 42-31 Columbia
The Violets went on a four-point scoring run early in the third quarter, and the Lions decided that was enough for a while. Columbia scored 32 points in the quarter and held NYU to only 15 points. NYU did not stand a chance going into the game as the Lions proved they are looking for a winning season this year. Columbia finished with eight blocks, 21 steals, and 29 defensive rebounds, proving that their defensive excellence is going to be a big factor this season. As shown by the final score and strong performance, the Violets were blown out of the water by a strong all-around team.
Final: 89-55 Columbia
Five Lions scored in the double digits, with (Position) Kaitlyn Davis leading with 19 points. Davis nearly had a double-double with 19 points and 8 rebounds despite only playing for about half of the 40-minute game and leaving early to a rolled ankle. Columbia’s performance on the defensive end of the court was outstanding; NYU was held to only 36% shooting from the field as they made only 22 of their 60 shots. Although the Lions shot only 44% from the free-throw line, their sheer offensive power and versatility allowed them to score from beyond the arc and under the basket. Moreover, the Lions clearly have depth in their bench as 36 of their 89 points came from the bench. Columbia put on a show in their exhibition game, signaling the beginning of a great season.
The Lions will officially open their season on November 9 at home against Hampton University.
89-55 via mclt