By Hannah Wolke, Newswire Intern

After their first week of play, Xavier women’s basketball has gained a win and a loss, but both games showed the skills and the determination of the players to get more wins as the season continues. 

The team showed potential in the first half against San Jose State University on Nov. 5, staying competitive and playing with energy against a strong opponent. Sophomore guard Júlia Garcia Roig was the team’s leading scorer, while freshman guard Meri Kanerva also made significant contributions with several key plays.

The first half showed real promise for Xavier, with the team executing solid offense and defense. There were moments of fluid ball movement, quick transitions and strong defensive stops, all of which highlighted the potential this squad has when they’re clicking. They were able to keep the game competitive, trading baskets and staying within striking distance of their opponent. They went into halftime with a 21-16 lead. 

However, after the break, the game took a different turn. The team struggled to maintain that same level of intensity, and San Jose found ways to exploit weaknesses, pulling away in the second half. The Musketeers were only able to score 15 points in the second half compared to San Jose’s 39, resulting in a 55-36 loss. 

Despite the setback, the game served as an important learning experience. and highlighted areas where the team can improve. 

On Sunday, Xavier had a chance to bounce back against the Miami University Redhawks. Playing at home gave the team a boost, and they maintained the intensity from the first half into the second half. Sophomore guard Daniela Lòpez led the team with 15 points, while junior forward Petra Oborilova also stepped up and made some impressive plays and scored 6 points.

The Musketeers were able to go into halftime with a 44-32 lead and were looking to capitalize on that lead. The game only saw the Redhawks take the lead twice in the second half, but that only lasted a few moments for them. The Musketeers were able to stay strong throughout the second half, making robust plays and acing their three-pointers to give them a 71-66 win. 

The season is still in its early stages, and there’s a lot of reason for optimism. This year’s team has already achieved the same amount of wins as the 2023-24 team only two games into the season. The women’s basketball team has shown talent and determination, and with both games, they have gained more experience and chemistry. Getting a win under their belt so early in the season is sure to help propel this team forward. With players stepping up and a roster filled with potential, the Musketeers are ready to get some more wins this season.

This year’s team has already achieved the same amount of wins as the 2023-24 team only two games into the season.