Third Quarter Surge Helps Taylor Overcome No. 7 Marian
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UPLAND, Ind. – The third period was the difference in Wednesday’s contest, as the Trojans outscored the No. 7 Knights by seven points in the quarter and finished with a 70-63 advantage. The victory extended the team’s win streak to 10-straight, dating back to early December.
The first half was a battle with Marian (18-5, 9-2 CL) gaining a slight lead, shooting 48.4 percent from the floor. Taylor (18-4, 9-2 CL) managed to collect 29 points in the half, picking up five treys.
Momentum swung in Taylor’s favor in the second half, as the team nabbed a 16-4 run in the middle of the third stanza to take its largest lead of the night of eight points. Abby Buchs led the rally with seven points of her own in the four minute span.
The Trojans held tightly to lead for the remainder of the game, outscoring the visitors by 13 points in the second half. The 70-63 win ended a 12-game losing streak to the Knights, while notching the team’s sixth victory against a ranked opponent this season.
Five different Trojans landed in double figures on Wednesday, utilizing a well-rounded offensive attack. The TU squad relied on its strengths, converting 15-of-19 free throw attempts, while sharing the ball with 15 assists.
Defensively, Taylor stood strong, holding Marian to 10 points less than its season average of 73.2 points per game. TU also won the turnover battle, forcing 20 giveaways from the Knights’ offense.
Aubrey Wright played a huge role in Wednesday’s victory, contributing on both sides of the court. The senior guard recorded 13 points and six assists, while draining a pair of triples and going five-of-six from the free throw line. Wright stayed active on defense, snagging a career-high six steals and one block.
17 points from Kendall Bradbury led the team for the night, as the senior went six-for-12 from the field, while adding eight rebounds and four assists.
Off the bench, Lauren James and Jamie Netzley logged significant minutes for the Trojans. Sophomore James knocked down three deep balls, recording 12 points in the outing, marking her fourth double-digit effort of the season.
No. 9 Taylor will return to the planks on Saturday, as the team faces No. 18 Saint Francis (16-7, 8-3 CL) on the road at 1:00 pm.
