HONOLULU — The University of Hawai’i women’s basketball team pulled off a nail-biting 46-41 overtime win against Saint Martin’s at Bankoh Arena. This hard-fought victory marked their first 2-0 start since the 2015-2016 season.
The Rainbow Wahine trailed by eight points at the start of the fourth quarter. But their defense made a remarkable turnaround, limiting the Saints to just four points over the final 15 minutes of play. Despite turning the ball over a staggering 30 times and struggling with their 3-point shots (only one successful attempt out of 26), they managed to hold off Saint Martin’s, a Division II team from the Great Northwest Athletic Conference.
Freshman guard Bailey Flavell shone brightly with 15 points and eight rebounds. Her crucial five points in overtime helped seal the win. Keiara Curtis, another standout freshman, added 14 points and hit the team’s first 3-pointer, a key moment in their comeback.
Historically, the teams have had ups and downs, but this game showcased the importance of defense. As NBA coach Doc Rivers once said, “Defense wins championships.” This couldn’t be more true for the Rainbow Wahine, who have now shown that they can step up when the game is on the line.
The game began slowly, with Saint Martin’s initially leading due to their three-point shooting. The Saints scored their first points from beyond the arc, keeping the score tight. At halftime, they led 24-21. The Rainbow Wahine struggled to find their offensive rhythm, recording 16 turnovers in the first half alone.
In the second half, the tides began to turn. After being held scoreless for part of the third quarter, the Wahine rallied back with a strong performance. Curtis made a pivotal 3-pointer that spurred a 9-0 run, bringing them back in front.
Notable player Kyra Webb contributed 10 rebounds, and Saniyah Neverson added nine, helping the Wahine dominate the boards with a 56-32 advantage.
As the game headed to overtime, Flavell’s quick thinking led to the first basket. The team built a commanding six-point lead, which Saint Martin’s could not overcome. The Rainbow Wahine’s relentless spirit was key, proving the adage that hard work pays off.
Looking ahead, Hawaii’s next game is against Loyola Marymount on November 21 at 11 a.m. during their “Education Day” at Bankoh Arena. The excitement surrounding the team is palpable, and fan support continues to grow, especially on social media. Reactions from fans, like those cheering for Flavell’s incredible lead shot, show their passion and hope for a successful season.
The Rainbow Wahine have started strong, and as they aim for continued success, they showcase the power of teamwork and determination—qualities that are essential for any athlete striving for greatness.
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