FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason University (20-8, 15-2 Atlantic 10) dominated Saint Joseph's University (19-9, 10-7 Atlantic 10) with an impressive 85-59 victory at EagleBank Arena, highlighting a commanding 36-23 rebounding edge. This win marks the Patriots' achievement of three consecutive 20-win seasons. 

George Mason set the tone early, turning turnovers into opportunities and maintaining a high-energy pace. A highlight came when Mary Amoateng sank a buzzer-beating 3-pointer, giving the Green & Gold the edge. Despite five ties and four lead changes in the quarter, George Mason ended it ahead, 21–17.

In the second quarter, the Patriots took charge with a decisive scoring burst. Amoateng was influential, adding a layup and a 3-pointer to widen the gap. Zahirah Walton chipped in with a jumper and a 3-pointer, also delivering key assists. Defensively, George Mason stifled the Hawks, allowing only two baskets and forcing several turnovers. The Green & Gold wrapped up the quarter with a commanding 43-28 lead, setting a strong foundation for the rest of the game.

The Patriots pushed forward in the third quarter, igniting with a tip-in from Hawa Komara at 8:31, followed by a fast-break 3-pointer from Walton at 8:03. This sequence extended their advantage, showcasing a well-rounded offensive effort. Walton added a layup and capitalized on free throws, while the Hawks tried to counter. However, George Mason's offensive efficiency and rebounding supremacy continued to control the game, ending the quarter with a 67-46 lead.

The Green & Gold maintained their grip in the fourth quarter, excelling at the free-throw line by hitting 11 of 14 attempts. Walton led the charge with eight points, including a pivotal jumper at 6:39 that extended the lead to 20 points. Trinity Massenberg made her presence felt defensively with a block and a late defensive rebound. Despite a late push from the Hawks, highlighted by Knouse's 3-pointer in the closing seconds, the Patriots held firm. The game concluded with George Mason sealing an 85-59 triumph. With this victory, the Patriots now share the top spot and can secure a portion of the regular season title for the first time in program history with a win on Saturday at Duquesne.

PATRIOT POINTS
Zahirah Walton - 29 points, 11-12 FT, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals
Mary Amoateng - 16 points, 4 three-pointers, 2 steals
Kennedy Harris - 15 points, 6-7 FT, 2 steals

UP NEXT
The Patriots will head to Pittsburgh to finish their regular season at Duquesne on Saturday, February 28 at 2 p.m. A live stream will be available on ESPN+.