PITTSBURGH, Pa. — George Mason University (21-8, 16-2 Atlantic 10) dominated Duquesne University (11-18, 4-14 Atlantic 10), clinching a 65-48 win at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse on Saturday. The Patriots' tenacious defense was the star, forcing 20 turnovers and nabbing 13 steals, paving the way for their commanding victory.
With the win, the Patriots secure at least a portion of the A-10 Regular Season Championship, pending the results of the Rhody Island/GW game. They also officially have the best conference season ever at 16-2.
George Mason shook off an early deficit in the first quarter thanks to a strategic defensive play by
Louis Volker, who blocked a layup mere seconds into the game. The Green & Gold then picked up the pace with a fast-break offense featuring back-to-back layups by
Mary Amoateng and
Kennedy Harris, quickly closing Duquesne's initial lead.
Zahirah Walton's four-point play at 4:08 put George Mason in front for the first time, a lead they never relinquished, bolstered by solid rebounding and aggressive defense, finishing the quarter ahead 15-9.
The second quarter saw George Mason widen the gap with a potent offensive burst, starting with an early three-pointer from
Jada Brown at 8:32, set up by Walton. The momentum continued as
Hawa Komara and Harris knocked down key shots, extending the lead further. The Dukes' turnover troubles persisted, and George Mason took full advantage, including a pivotal steal by Amoateng that led to a layup and free throw at 1:29. By halftime, George Mason had surged ahead 34-17, outscoring Duquesne 19-8 in the quarter.
In the third quarter, George Mason kept the pressure on with Brown sinking another three-pointer at 9:35, again assisted by Walton. Though the Dukes tried to keep pace with consistent scoring, George Mason held firm, with Brown hitting another three at 2:20, courtesy of Walton's assist. Despite Duquesne's efforts, George Mason maintained their edge, ending the quarter with Walton's clutch free throws, leading 46-34.
George Mason sealed the deal in the fourth quarter with a commanding performance in the paint, racking up 12 points. Walton set the tone with a jumper at 9:44, followed by a fast-break layup off her own steal at 6:05. Harris was a force inside, adding several baskets, including a layup at 3:27 from an Amoateng assist, which was her 1,000th career point as well! Even as Duquesne tried to rally, George Mason stayed in control. The Patriots closed out the quarter 19-14, securing the 65-48 victory.
PATRIOT POINTS
UP NEXT
The Patriots with travel to Henrico, Va. for the 2026 Atlantic 10 Tournament next week. The tournament behinds on March 4 but George Mason has secured a double-bye so will not appear until Friday. Time and opponent will be announce after all games conclude on Saturday, February 28.
