While the game ended in a blowout, it certainly did not start that way. As seems to be the usual case when the HVWAC's premier basketball programs get together, the start of Tuesday's game was an intense affair with both teams holding early lead and neither allowing the other an inch. When Lynette Reyes (Brooklyn, NY/Christ the King) sunk an open jump shot with 9:32 remaining in the first half, Mount Saint Vincent held a 17-13 lead, and it seemed as if another thriller was at hand.
However, in a turn of events as shocking as it was dramatic, Reyes's basket marked the last points St. Joseph's would score for more than 13 minutes of play. Mount Saint Vincent went on a 13-0 run to end the first half and held a commanding 30-13 lead after 20 minutes. 3:36 into the second half, the run was extended to 21-0, the Mount's lead increased to 38-13, and the rout was on.
Overall, Mount Saint Vincent was aided by 41 St. Joseph's turnovers, and the Dolphins held a 53-52 rebounding edge while shooting 38% from the floor, compared to an 18% shooting night for the Lady Bears. The Dolphins also saw the game carried by their outstanding freshman class as five freshmen - led by Heesemann and Percodani - combined for 48 points, 31 rebounds, 14 assists, and 10 steals.
St. Joseph's (3-4) was led by Reyes's nine points and a 12-rebound night for freshman Julia Serewko.
While one of the most incredible winning streaks in the history of the HVWAC is over more than five years after it started, St. Joseph's - the 2005-06 HVWAC Regular Season and Tournmament Champion - can take solace in the fact that they seem almost destined to meet Mount Saint Vincent again, in February's HVWAC Championships. The two teams have meet for the Conference's post-season crown for each of the last two years with each team winning once.
