Rutgers women’s basketball delivered a stunning defensive performance to overcome a 17-point deficit and secure a 64-62 victory over Monmouth on Wednesday. The Scarlet Knights stumbled out of the gate, trailing 19-9 at the end of the first quarter and facing a 38-26 halftime deficit. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the third period, where Rutgers stifled the Hawks’ offense, holding them to just six points while outscoring them 18-6 to tie the game at 44-44 entering the final frame.
Mia Pauldo’s clutch finish caps a dramatic third-quarter turnaround for the Scarlet Knights.
The fourth quarter proved to be a tense, back-and-forth battle with multiple lead changes. Zachara Perkins provided a crucial basket to put Rutgers ahead, but Monmouth responded with a late surge to tie the score at 62-62 with only 11 seconds remaining. The game hinged on the final possession, where Mia Pauldo emerged as the decisive factor. Pauldo secured the game-winning basket with three seconds left on the clock, and Rutgers immediately capitalized on a steal to seal the win.
Mia Pauldo continues to establish herself as the breakout star for Rutgers, delivering the performance that defined this high-stakes matchup. Her ability to execute under pressure in the final seconds highlights her growing importance to the team’s offensive engine. This victory not only salvages a potential blowout loss but also reinforces the Scarlet Knights’ resilience and defensive intensity, key components for their continued success in the upcoming schedule.
Source: Yahoo Sports
