Russell drops 32 as Axewomen defeat UNB

Acadia defeated UNB 83–69 on Friday night at Stu Aberdeen Court, maintaining control for most of the game and using turnovers to their advantage. The Axewomen forced 26 UNB turnovers and turned them into 27 points. They also held a 44–43 edge on the glass and built their largest lead of 18 points midway through the second half.

Samantha Russell led Acadia with 32 points, shooting 5-for-10 from three, and added eight rebounds. Bianca Helmig had 14 points, nine assists and five rebounds. Sarah Delorey scored 15 points on 7-for-10 shooting and grabbed eight boards. Emily Nunes-Sabean added seven points, 11 rebounds and three assists.

Acadia started strong in the first quarter, converting 10 points off turnovers and outscoring UNB 18–16 in the paint on their way to a 30–18 lead. The Axewomen shot 55 per cent in the opening period while holding UNB to 36 per cent and no made threes.

In the second quarter, Acadia committed no turnovers and added four points off seven UNB miscues. They scored 12 points in the paint and recorded seven assists in the frame, extending their lead to 51–38 at halftime.

UNB pushed back in the third quarter, outscoring Acadia 21–13 behind 10-for-18 shooting and 16 points in the paint. Acadia struggled from the field, shooting 5-for-20, and turned the ball over seven times. Their lead was cut to 64–59 heading into the fourth.

Acadia responded with a strong final quarter, outscoring UNB 19–10. They hit three threes and held a 12–9 rebound advantage while limiting UNB to 3-for-19 shooting. The Axewomen closed the game effectively, finishing with a 14-point win.

Up next: Acadia is home on Saturday, Nov. 15 to face UPEI at 6 p.m.