ACC’s women’s basketball team played their first home game since Dec. 7 on Saturday night, and what a game it was. The Red Devils defeated Hesston 60-52.
Allen came out of the gates fast, running to an 11-3 lead early, and forcing Hesston to burn a timeout within the first five minutes of the game. Allen played sound defense and used their size to drive in the paint and score early. Allen forced and took advantage of Hesston turnovers and controlled the boards in the first half. Naomi Smith’s four points and Clara Romero’s seven points led the way for Allen early.
The Red Devils led 27-17 at the half.
Allen went on another run to open the second half, racing out to a 7-4 advantage as the Red Devil defense continued to limit Hesston’s offense. Allen led by as much as 18 in the second half before Hesston went on a run late, trying to scratch and claw their way back but the Red Devil defense held solid and limited what Hesston was able to do.
Even though they won, Allen head coach Leslie Crane was not satisfied.
“I was disappointed in our performances at different times today,” said Crane. “I think we are a much better team than what we showed. We are lacking some maturity. Instead of playing to our competition, we have to be more consistent. If we want to do anything in this conference, consistency is going to be key.”
ACC is 5-8 with a conference win and is 4-1 at home.
Smith finished with 15 points. Romero had nine. Adjaratou Mbaye had eight. Dayle Hambelton and Hallie Reed both had seven. Alayjha Bayonne and Skyler Evans had five.
Allen is back in action Wednesday against Highland.
