PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — George Mason University (12-6, 7-0 Atlantic 10) clinched a 66-59 victory over Saint Joseph's University (12-6, 3-4 Atlantic 10) at Michael J. Hagan Arena. With this win, George Mason is now 7-0 in conference play, marking a historic start to their season.
George Mason came out strong in the first quarter, with
Kennedy Harris setting the tone with a jumper in the paint just 16 seconds into the game. The momentum kept rolling, highlighted by Harris nailing a 3-pointer at 6:15 to stretch the lead to 10–3.
Zahirah Walton's impressive display, featuring a three-pointer and a jumper, bolstered the Green & Gold's offensive push. Despite Saint Joseph's efforts to close the gap, George Mason wrapped up the quarter ahead, 24–16. Harris had 12 points on 5-5 shooting after the first quarter.
In the second quarter, the Patriots widened their lead with a scoring burst, highlighted by three field goals from
Louis Volker, including a clutch 3-pointer at 7:32.
Jada Brown and
Mary Amoateng were pivotal in disrupting the Hawks' rhythm with key defensive plays and steals. Though Saint Joseph's tried to stay close with points in the paint, a buzzer-beater 3-pointer from Harris solidified George Mason's strong position. The half ended with George Mason leading 38–26.
The third quarter challenged George Mason as the Hawks ramped up their pressure, narrowing the lead. Despite an early turnover from Harris,
Jada Brown's defensive prowess, with a notable steal at 9:42, kept the Patriots in the game. Saint Joseph's capitalized on their chances, cutting into the lead with consistent scoring in the paint. Yet, a timely 3-pointer from Harris at 4:47, assisted by Amoateng, provided a crucial steadying force. The quarter closed with George Mason holding a slim lead, 46-39.
In the final quarter, George Mason maintained their grip on the game, highlighted by a pivotal three-pointer from Amoateng at 3:40, pushing the lead to 58–46. Walton's layup at 2:11 added to the pressure on the Hawks. Although Saint Joseph's made a late push, George Mason's steady scoring and defensive rebounds in the closing minutes secured their victory. The Green & Gold finished strong, winning 66–59, a decisive triumph for the visitors.
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UP NEXT
The Patriots travel north to St. Bonaventure, N.Y. to take on the Bonnies on Wednesday, January 21 at 6 p.m. on ESPN+.
