Rutgers Women’s Basketball Handles La Salle, Moves to 2-0 After 75-62 Win

Rutgers controls the game

Rutgers set a defensive tone early and took a 12-6 lead in the opening quarter. La Salle briefly moved ahead by two points in the opening minutes, but Rutgers soon regained control.

The Scarlet Knights held a 29-22 advantage at halftime after a second quarter that finished 17-16 in their favor. Rutgers led for most of the contest and reached a maximum lead of 20 points.

Pauldo leads the offense

Sophomore guard Mia Pauldo scored a game-high 22 points on 10-of-22 shooting and added six assists, three rebounds and two steals. She helped organize Rutgers’ half-court and transition offense.

Jaylah Lampley contributed 11 points and three rebounds in 24 minutes. Off the bench, Zennia Thomas scored 10 points in 12 minutes, while Chikae Desdunes added eight points, including two three-pointers.

Rebounds and shooting make a difference

Rutgers grabbed 18 offensive rebounds, including seven by Tara Daye and five by Zachara Perkins. The Scarlet Knights shot 43 percent from the field, making 29 of 67 attempts.

La Salle shot 34 percent overall and made five of 26 three-point attempts. The Explorers converted 17 of 32 free throws, while Rutgers matched their 20-point fourth quarter to secure the 13-point win.

Next game on Sunday

Rutgers will return to Jersey Mike’s Arena on Sunday to host the Indiana State Sycamores. The Scarlet Knights enter the matchup with a 2-0 record.