Hot-Shooting Saints Scoot Past Titans
NOTRE DAME, Ind. – IU South Bend couldn’t overcome a blistering start from Holy Cross on Saturday, falling 86-75 in a CCAC road matchup at McKenna Arena. The Titans put together strong bursts of play but could not get over the hump against the Saints.
The first quarter began with the host squad unable to miss, drilling its first five three-point attempts and shooting 60 percent from the field in the opening period. By the time the buzzer sounded, the Saints led 25-16 and did not miss a shot until past the halfway mark in the stanza.
As the game transitioned to period number two, the Titans found some success beyond the arc. Three triples fell for IUSB, including one from Keylee Hudson who notched seven points in the quarter.
IU South Bend found a big spark after halftime, posting a major rally. Trailing by 20, the Titans strung together a 10-0 run — with four different players scoring on four straight possessions — and cutting the deficit in half. Aubrie Booker, Kenzie Fulks, Bradie Chambers, and Tenleigh Phelps each delivered a timely bucket, giving the Titans their first sustained momentum of the day.
But each time IUSB edged closer, the Saints answered. Holy Cross shot 56.1 percent from the field for the game, including 9-of-18 from deep, and was able to keep the Titans from making another push in the second half.
Despite the loss, the Titans had several strong individual performances. Phelps delivered a well-rounded line with 12 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and three steals, impacting the game on both ends. Bradie Chambers paced the team in the scoring column with 16 points and added five assists, while Hudson contributed 13 points, five rebounds, three assists, and three blocks. Fulks was effective off the bench with 13 points on 6-of-7 shooting.
IU South Bend fought to pull within striking distance in the fourth quarter, with Sydney Jerrells scoring eight points in the final frame.. But Holy Cross’ lead never dipped below double digits, as the hosts held on to their advantage.
The Titans will look to bounce back against Saint Xavier at home on Wednesday at 5:30 pm.