Recap: #6 Gee-Gees overpower Thunderwolves for fifth consecutive win

In OUA basketball action on Friday night, the U SPORTS sixth-ranked Gee-Gees women's basketball team (5-1) extended their winning streak to five games as they defeated the Lakehead Thunderwolves 83-55 at Montpetit Hall.

The Gee-Gees jumped out to an early 17-9 lead in the first quarter, before the Thunderwolves clawed back within one point at the end of the frame. The Lakehead run was thanks in large part to a perfect three-for-three from deep by Karissa Kajorinne.

In the second quarter, the Gee-Gees looked to continue to push the pace as they extended their lead to a 12-point margin. The Thunderwolves, aggressive all game, were able to force a handful of their eight first-half steals to keep the Ottawa lead within ten points at the halftime break.

The Gee-Gees turned up the defensive pressure in the second half, which head coach Andy Sparks chalked up to a number of halftime adjustments made by the team. The Gee-Gees were able to force 11 of their 16 total turnovers in the final two quarters. Ottawa was second overall in the OUA in points against per game. Coming into this matchup, they were holding their opponents just 50.4 points per contest, in the win, they held the Thunderwolves to just 17 points on 23.2% shooting from the field.

As has been the case all season, the Gee-Gees used a very balanced approach to attack on the offensive end, with five players finishing in double-digits. Notable offensive performances included a game-high 14 points from Brooklynn McAlear-Fanus, who also finished with 11 rebounds and six assists. Fifth-year forward Jennifer Crowe finished with 13 points coming off of the bench.

The Gee-Gees look to continue their winning streak next weekend as they host U SPORTS #3 McMaster Marauders (5-1) and the Brock Badgers (3-3) on Friday and Saturday night at Montpetit Hall. Both games tip-off at 6 p.m. and will be streaming live on OUA.tv.