VIDEO:
NJIT Highlights vs. Merrimack
VIDEO:
Post Game Interview w/ head coach Mike Lane and freshman Kate Donovan
VIDEO:
Post Game Wrap Up w/ assistant coach John Hannafin
NEWARK, NJ – Junior
Marissa Gingrich scored a game-high 15 points to lead NJIT to a 57-35 victory over Merrimack Thursday night at the Joel and Diane Bloom Wellness and Events Center, as the Highlanders improved to 2-0 on the season.
NJIT's defense set the tone, forcing 30 turnovers and converting them into 24 points. The Highlanders also recorded 12 steals and held a commanding 38-20 advantage in points in the paint. NJIT limited Merrimack to just five points in the third quarter, using a 10-0 run to extend its lead and take control of the contest.
Gingrich paced the Highlanders with 15 points and four steals. Freshman Kate Donovan and Ava Locklear each recorded double-doubles, finishing with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Donovan also added three steals, while Locklear contributed two blocks. Donovan's 12 points and 10 rebounds marked career highs. Mackenzie Wright-Rawls contributed six rebounds and four assists.
NJIT jumped out to a 19-7 lead after the opening quarter, shooting 8-of-17 from the field while limiting Merrimack to 3-of-14 shooting. The Highlanders dominated the paint, holding a 16-4 advantage in points inside, and outrebounded the Warriors 13-7. An 8-0 run midway through the quarter extended NJIT's lead from 9-4 to 17-4.
The Highlanders continued to apply defensive pressure in the second quarter, forcing nine Merrimack turnovers and converting them into nine points. NJIT carried a 31-20 advantage into the locker room at halftime.
NJIT took control in the third quarter, outscoring Merrimack 16-5 while forcing 10 turnovers and committing just two. The Highlanders converted those takeaways into 12 points and held the Warriors to 2-of-8 shooting from the field. A pivotal 10-0 run helped NJIT build a 47-25 advantage heading into the final quarter.
Both teams scored 10 points in the fourth quarter, as NJIT maintained its lead to secure the 57-35 victory and open the season with back-to-back wins.
NEXT UP
NJIT travels to Poughkeepsie, N.Y., on Sunday, Nov. 8, to face Marist at 5 p.m. in the America East-Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Challenge.
STAY CONNECTED
Stay up to date throughout the NJIT women's basketball season by following @NJITWBB on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, and by liking the NJIT Women's Basketball page on Facebook.
