NORTH CANTON, Ohio — In a non-conference season opener for both women's basketball teams, Walsh defeated Davenport in a closely contested matchup at Alumni Arena, 77-68. The Panthers recorded 12 steals that led to 21 points off turnovers and dominated inside with 42 points in the paint, but Walsh capitalized on second-chance opportunities and a balanced scoring effort to secure the win.
Davenport took an early lead with 14 points in the paint, while Walsh countered with hot perimeter shooting, knocking down five of six 3-pointers in the opening quarter. Despite forcing six turnovers and matching Walsh's six steals, the Panthers saw the Cavaliers convert fast-break chances and bench scoring to take a 26–17 lead after the first.
DU responded in the second quarter, outscoring Walsh 12–8 by turning turnovers into points. The Panthers' defense tightened, recording two blocks and holding the Cavaliers to 25% shooting from beyond the arc. Davenport also continued to attack inside, bringing the score to 34–29 at halftime.
Both teams traded baskets in the third quarter, each scoring 12 points in the paint. Davenport shot 56% from the floor and hit three of six from deep, but four turnovers allowed Walsh to maintain momentum and a 57–50 lead entering the fourth.
The Panthers pushed late, tallying six steals and forcing eight Walsh turnovers in the final quarter. Two key 3-pointers from Ellie Toney helped close the gap, but Walsh held strong with free throws and timely inside scoring to finish out the 77–68 win.
Davenport Top Performers
Maddie Geers — 22 points (9–13 FG), 4 rebounds
Anna Axtell — 14 points (5–10 FG), 3 rebounds
Maya Mitchell — 4 steals, 4 assists, 2 rebounds
Reese Polega — 5 points, 2 blocks, 2 steals
Walsh Top Performers
Kiley Dyrlund — 25 points (12–17 FG), 12 rebounds, 5 steals
Carlota Lopez — 18 points (7–15 FG), 4 assists
Sydney Ludvigsen — 9 points, 6–6 FT, 3 steals
Rory O'Hara — 10 points, 2 made 3-pointers, 2 rebounds
Davenport continues non-conference play on Saturday, Nov. 15, traveling to Ohio Dominican for a 5 p.m. tipoff in Columbus.
