A balanced offensive attack led by junior forward Arron Zimmerman with a career high 15 points helped the Eagles overpower UMass 82-59 at Bender Arena on Nov. 17.
AU shot 45 percent from the field, 37 percent from the 3-point line and made all 12 of its free-throws.
“It was truly a team effort out there,” head coach Megan Gebbia said. “Everyone who played scored”.
AU (2-0, 0-0 PL ) was able to overcome turnover issues in the first half and still be up by 11 to keep UMass behind by 11 points heading into halftime.
By minimizing their turnover issues, the Eagles extended their lead to 20 points in the second half, only committing one turnover. Senior guard Alexis Dobbs provided key ballhandling and leadership to help the Eagles retain possession despite a physical defense from the Minutewomen (0-3, 0-0 A10). Dobbs would finish the game with 15 points.
“I was concerned because we had 11 turnovers [in the first half], uncharacteristic turnover,” Gebbia said. “I was really happy to see us have only one turnover in the second half, get steals and convert that into transition baskets going the other way.”
Four Eagles finished the game with double-digit points, including sophomore forward Michelle Holmes finished the game with 10 points and five rebounds off the bench.
“We know that [Michelle] can rebound, but today we found out that she could rebound and then finish on the other end,” Gebbia said. “She went 4-4 from the line and had four offensive rebounds, giving us some great minutes today.”
Zimmerman lead the team in both points and rebounds, finishing with 15 points and eight rebounds.
“As for Arron, it was probably her best defensive performance of the season,” Gebbia said. “We needed help down on the block, so its great that she did her best and was able to put such a great effort forward today.”
Securing rebounds was important for AU’s overall strategy of the day as 13 of their points came on the fastbreak. Using sound boxing out and occasional defensive pressure to force steals, the Eagles were able to outrun UMass and finish with several layups.
When the Eagles were unable to finish at the bucket, they were able to capitalize on three-pointers, often at key moments in the game.
With the victory, the Eagles are 2-0 to open the season for the first time since the 2008-2009 season.
The Eagles will face UMBC on Nov. 20.
