LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Linfield triumphed in a thrilling matchup against Occidental, securing a 57-53 victory on Monday night at Rush Gymnasium in Los Angeles, California. Linfield's balanced offensive effort and defensive resilience were key to the win, pushing their record to 3-0 for the season.
Linfield's offense was led by
Miki Vermeulen, who recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. She shot 5-of-11 from the field, including 3-of-4 from the free-throw line. Vermeulen's efforts came on both ends of the court as she finished with two blocks and one steal.
Amelia Solt also contributed significantly to the win, scoring 12 points, including a key three-pointer, and adding three assists. She made 5-of-6 free throws and also had two steals, showcasing her all-around play.
Allie Mead was the third Wildcat in double figures with 11 points and proved to be the defensive difference maker with two blocks and four steals.
Eve Burke supported the offense with five points, four rebounds and two blocks, demonstrating her presence in the paint.
On the boards, Linfield dominated, pulling down 45 rebounds compared to Occidental's 40. The Wildcats' 18 offensive rebounds helped them maintain possession and create eight second-chance points.
Despite some cold shooting from beyond the arc (3-of-21), Linfield capitalized on free-throw opportunities, finishing 16-of-20 from the charity stripe. Their strong inside presence allowed them to outscore Occidental 30-22 in the paint.
Defensively, the Wildcats tallied seven blocks and 11 steals in the lockdown performance against last season's SCIAC champions. The Wildcats' defensive intensity, coupled with their offensive efficiency, sealed the victory as they held off a late surge by Occidental.