The Algoma University Thunderbirds women's basketball team faced a challenging two-game road weekend on January 16th and 17th, but the box scores confirm a continued effort, leadership, and individual growth as the season progresses.
On Friday night in North Bay, Ontario, Algoma opened the weekend against the Nipissing Lakers with a 71 to 35 loss. The Thunderbirds competed early, holding the hosts close in the first quarter, before Nipissing pulled away as the game went on. Taylor Randall led Algoma offensively with 10 points, attacking the basket and knocking down a three-pointer.
Bernadette Maranan provided a spark off the bench, finishing with seven points on efficient shooting, while Sadie Grawbarger contributed across the stat sheet with six points, seven rebounds, two assists, and a steal in 36 minutes. Annabelle Lefebvre added six points and five rebounds, and Elia Galdos made her presence felt defensively with four blocks, anchoring the Thunderbirds in the paint.
The following evening in Sudbury, Algoma showed a strong response against Laurentian, staying within reach through three quarters before the home side pulled away late. Grawbarger delivered one of her strongest all-around performances of the season, posting a team-high 16 points while grabbing an impressive 12 rebounds, along with four assists and two steals.
Brooke Gruhn was a consistent perimeter threat, scoring 12 points with three three-pointers, while Mercedes Mazzuca added 10 points, including a pair of timely threes. Lefebvre continued her steady play with eight points, and Maranan chipped in three more while helping facilitate the offense. Algoma's effort on the boards was highlighted by Grawbarger's double-digit rebounding night, keeping the Thunderbirds competitive throughout. The final score was a 73 to 49 loss.
Despite the results, the weekend showcased leadership, defensive effort, and continued development from Algoma's core. With players like Grawbarger, Gruhn, Randall, and Lefebvre setting the tone, the Thunderbirds continue to build experience and resilience as they move forward in conference play.
The Thunderbird Women's Basketball team hits the road again when they play the Queen's Gaels on Friday, January 23rd at 6:00 pm and the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks on Saturday, January 24th at 6:00 pm as well. Both game can be streamed live on OUA tv.
