Box Score Presque Isle, ME – The Owls hosted their final game of the regular season vs Northern Vermont University – Lyndon. In their 94-84 victory, the Owls secured the 3rd spot in the North Atlantic Conference post season standings. This now allows the Owls to host their first NAC playoff game. The Owls on a four game win streak now sit at 12-9 on the year and finished 7-6 in the NAC. Not the only celebration of the day while the Owls celebrated their three seniors. Emily Wheaton (Presque Isle, ME), Sarah "Goose" Musselman (Turlock, CA) and Hinter Mercier (Fairfield, ME) each celebrated their senior day with a win.
The Owls pushed their lead up early in the first half as they were locked in defensively, forcing the Hornets to just three field goals and 11 points. While UMPI started the game shooting 50% from the field and scoring 20 points in the first 10 minutes. The Owls continued to shoot the ball well in the second quarter, although the Hornets defense caused eight Owls turnovers, which helped them score 23 points in the quarter. With the Owls leading at the half 40-34, the Hornets came out string with 21 points in the third and holding the Owls to 19, as they slowly picked away at the lead. With the Owls leading by four, they stepped up their offense and handled the Hornets full court press, allowing them to run away with the game. The Owls would score 35 points in the final 10 minutes off the game, led by Paige Espling's 13 points off 6-6 shooting in the fourth.
With Espling leading the team in points with 23 off an impressive 10-12 shooting, it was Wheaton with the stat line of the night as she finished the game with 16 points and 13 assists, all while shooting 4-9 from the field and a perfect 6-6 from the free throw line. Rebecca Davila (El Paso, TX) finished with 17 points off the bench including a perfect 10-10 from the free throw line.
The Owls will now host their NAC playoff game this Tuesday the 15th vs Thomas College, tip off at 7:30pm.
