The Keiser University women's basketball team defeated Ave Maria 77-63 on senior day Saturday afternoon. The Seahawks honored Desirai Smith prior to the contest.

How it Happened

• Keiser jumped out to a 13-2 lead in the first quarter while going into the second on top 19-8.
• Ave Maria started the quarter on a 6-0 run getting to within 19-14, but a Claudia Reque three pointer started an 8-2 run extending their lead to 27-16 with 4:59 left. The Seahawks were on top 33-23 heading into the break.
• The Gyrenes cut the deficit to single digits at 45-37 when a Smith layup sparked an 8-0 run upping the margin to 53-37 with 1:39 to go in the third.
• Keiser started the final quarter on an 8-0 run that turned into a 16-3 stretch for their largest advantage of the game of 71-47 with 5:19 showing. Keiser went on to win by a final of 77-63.

Coaches Corner
Head Coach Pam Oswald said, "I have been fortunate to have a senior like Desirai in my first year here. We knew with her experience and knowledge of the game that she would be an important piece to building this program. She is an important asset not only to our staff, but to her teammates that look to her for leadership on the floor. She will definitely be leaving her mark on this program in her short time here."

Inside the Box
4: Players in double digits, led by Courtney Murphy game high (24), Reque and Chablis Morant (12), and Smith (11).
8: The Seahawks defense had eight steals led by three from Reque.
9: Reque had a game high nine assists on the afternoon.

Up Next
The Seahawks improved to 14-13 overall and 7-7 in Sun Conference play. Keiser welcomes Warner University on Wednesday evening for Keiser University Family and Friends Night. The tipoff is set for 5:30 p.m.

Last Time Out
The Seahawks defeated the Royals 64-55 on the road.