SAINT LEO, FLA. – Saint Leo University women's basketball extended its win streak to four games with a 64-60 Sunshine State Conference victory against Florida Tech on Saturday afternoon at the Marion Bowman Activities Center. The Lions improved to 5-2 overall and 2-1 in SSC play.

The first quarter set the tone for a closely contested battle, with both teams trading baskets. Freshman Olivia Agunzo led the Lions' offensive charge, showcasing her scoring prowess with 17 points, including three successful three-pointers.
 
The Lions maintained their composure in the second quarter, shooting efficiently and extending their lead. Junior Lauren McCrea's sharpshooting from beyond the arc added valuable scoring to the Lions offensive attack scoring 13 points and hitting four clutch free throws down the stretch, while Senior Jumoke Adaramoye and Sophomore Taydra Simpson made crucial plays on both ends of the court.
 
The third quarter saw the Panthers making a comeback, narrowing the gap on the scoreboard. However, the Lions' defense, led by Simpson's five rebounds and two steals, prevented Florida Tech from taking control of the game.
 
As the intensity heightened in the fourth quarter, both teams battled fiercely for the victory. Junior Chynna Mattair made significant contributions off the bench, scoring key points, and facilitating plays. The Lions' collective efforts, coupled with strong performances from the bench, ultimately secured the win.
 
Coach Anthony Cricitto on the string performance this afternoon: "We are so proud of our guards that stepped up in the absence of Alanis Diaz. Lauren McCrea played amazing on both ends of the floor today and hit two very important sets of free throws to seal of victory. Olivia Agunzo, in her first college start, looked like a veteran. She has been working so hard on her defense and ballhandling and it showed today."
 
"Florida Tech wouldn't quit and gave us fits, so we have some stuff to clean up and work on as we prepare for our next game at home Wednesday against Trinity College. I can't say enough about the work off the bench with Kamaria Sheriff doing things on both ends. The bottom line is we handled the abs and the flows of the game better than games past and I'm proud of everyone in that locker room."


 
The Lions capitalized on their opportunities, shooting at an impressive 47% from the field and 73% from the free-throw line.
 
The Lions extend their win streak to 4 games and move to 2-1 in the Sunshine State Conference. The Lions have been getting better every game this season and look to keep that momentum going.

Saint Leo continues its five-game homestand before its annual Saint Leo Holiday Classic concludes with games against Trinity (Fla.) (Dec. 6) and Fort Lauderdale (Dec. 11). The Lions will host Mercy (Dec. 15) and D'Youville for the Saint Leo Holiday Classic.  
 
For the latest news, updates, and information on Saint Leo Women's Basketball, visit SaintLeoLions.com. Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Lions news by following Saint Leo Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.