BUFFALO, N.Y. — D'Youville University (4-4, 2-0 ECC) defeated Queens College (2-7, 0-2 ECC), 78-64, at Saints Center Gym, pulling ahead with a 48-30 rebounding advantage and 15 second-chance points.

D'Youville opened the first quarter with an assertive performance, executing efficient ball movement that led to six assists on ten baskets. The team established an early lead through sharp shooting, including a drained three-pointer by Aliviya Vallone Russell (Buffalo, N.Y. / Cardinal O'Hara) at 3:13 and an inside layup by Molly O'Toole (Rochester, N.Y. / Aquinas Institute) at 2:31. D'Youville's defense contributed by limiting the Knights to 16 points, effectively controlling the paint and fast breaks. The quarter concluded with D'Youville leading 24-16.

D'Youville extended their lead with a notable run early in the second quarter, fueled by Morgan Giancaterino's (Buffalo, N.Y. /Sacred Heart Academy) back-to-back layups, increasing their advantage to 13 points. O'Toole contributed with a key 3-pointer at 7:13, maintaining the momentum for the home team. Despite the Knights pushing back with a few fast-break scores, D'Youville managed to maintain control. The quarter concluded with D'Youville in the lead, holding a 44-31 advantage.

D'Youville gained control in the third quarter with an efficient offensive run, highlighted by two 3-pointers from Russell, including one at 5:20, expanding their lead to 21 points. Alyssa Neumann (Silverdale, Wash. / Central Kitsap) contributed significantly with 10 points in the paint while also securing a crucial defensive block. Despite pressure from the Knights, D'Youville maintained their advantage, ending the quarter with a 19-13 score, leading 63-44.

D'Youville maintained control in the fourth quarter, highlighted by O'Toole's scoring contributions, including a pivotal 3-pointer at 8:25. O'Toole also converted four consecutive free throws at 4:52, extending the lead. Despite the Knights narrowing the gap, D'Youville's advantage proved insurmountable as they ended the quarter leading 78–64. The game concluded with D'Youville securing the victory by that final score.

O'Toole scored 25 points, including four 3-pointers, and added 12 rebounds with five assists. Russell contributed 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting and matched O'Toole with five assists. Neumann recorded 11 points, nine rebounds, and blocked two shots. Giancaterino finished with 12 points, converting six of her 12 field goal attempts.

Up Next
The Saints continue conference play with a road trip to St. Thomas Aquinas College on Friday, December 12th at 5:00 PM followed by a game at Mercy University on Sunday, December 14th.