Eagles Face Emporia for First Exhibition Game

EMPORIA, Kan. – Avila women's basketball returned from its Thanksgiving break by making the short trek west to Emporia for its first exhibition game of the 2023-24 campaign against NCAA Division II foe Emporia State on Monday evening.

After a very promising start to the game for the visitors, the home side went on a run down the home stretch of the first quarter, and it was all Hornets from there: Emporia State then put the clamps down in the second half and cruised to a 100-37 victory in the exhibition game for the Eagles.

After a quiet opening couple of minutes from both teams, Avila got off to a great start, getting an and-one from Madilyn Melton and a driving layup from Marlie Wright to take an early 5-2 lead. After the Hornets tied it up with a three-pointer, the Eagles went back ahead when Abrianna Leiker set up Hannah Pinkston for a bucket. Hannah Smith then knocked down a three to keep Avila within 15-12 with about three minutes left in the first, but the Hornets seized control from there, scoring the final 11 points of the first quarter and never looking back. Avila was unable to mount a response on the offensive end in the second half, and the Hornets earned the victory.

Five Hornets finished the night in double figures, led by 18 points, 10 rebounds and five assists from Faith Paramore. Familiar foe Tylieea Wallace showed she's still having success in her new home, scoring 16 points in 19 minutes off the bench. Pinkston led the Eagles with seven points and four rebounds, with Daisy Washington right there with her with seven points and three boards. Kathleen Stanley swiped a game-high four steals.

Up next, Avila women's basketball will return to KCAC action this Wednesday, November 29, with a road game against Tabor. The Eagle women will begin the doubleheader against the Bluejays at 6 PM, with the men to follow at 8; as always, you can watch all the action live on the KCAC Network.