Christendom Women’s Basketball Team Claims Second Straight USCAA DII National Championship

Buffalo, NY — Christendom College's women's basketball team has secured their second consecutive United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) DII National Championship with a thrilling 63-60 victory over Miami-Hamilton on Saturday. The win capped off a remarkable season for the Crusaders, who finished with an impressive 26-2 record and clinched their ninth straight victory in dramatic fashion.

A Strong Start, But a Fiery Challenge

The Crusaders entered the championship game as the top seed and overwhelming favorites, but Miami-Hamilton was ready to give them a fight. Christendom took an early 20-12 lead after the first period and extended their advantage to 37-27 by halftime. Mary Pennefather, in foul trouble entering the third quarter, picked up her fourth foul early in the third. After sitting for a couple of minutes, Pennefather entered the game and shortly picked up her fifth foul on an offensive foul, fouling her out of the game before the third quarter ended. Heading into the final quarter, the Crusaders appeared to be in control with a 52-40 lead, but Miami-Hamilton wasn't about to go down without a fight, especially with one of Christendom's star player out of the game. 

Miami-Hamilton's Fourth-Quarter Surge

Miami-Hamilton opened the fourth quarter with a 10-0 run, trimming the deficit to just 52-50. The game became even more intense as Miami-Hamilton managed to tie the game at 56-56 with just under three minutes left. It was clear the championship was going to come down to the wire.

Clutch Performances in Crunch Time

With the game hanging in the balance, Christendom senior Regina Bonvissuto came through with a clutch 3-pointer to give her team a 59-56 lead with 2:09 remaining. Senior Catherine Thomas, who had been dominant throughout the game, then converted two free throws with 43 seconds left, pushing the Crusaders' lead to 61-56.

But Miami-Hamilton wasn't done yet. A quick basket by Juliana Kemper cut the deficit to 61-58, and with just 25 seconds left, Beri Ngwa converted a layup to pull Miami-Hamilton to within one point at 61-60.

Keller's Free Throw Secures the Win

With the game on the line, Christendom's Miranda Keller calmly sank a free throw with 22 seconds left, giving the Crusaders a two-point cushion at 62-60. Miami-Hamilton had one last chance, but their layup attempt with one second remaining was off the mark, sealing Christendom's back-to-back national championships.

Standout Performances from the Crusaders

Catherine Thomas was a standout for the Crusaders, finishing the game with a game-high 28 points and 13 rebounds. Keller added 13 points and eight rebounds, while sophomore Mary Pennefather contributed 11 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Bonvissuto chipped in with nine points and three assists. 

All-Tournament Awards

Mary Pennefather was named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament for her performance throughout the entirety of the tournament. Catherine Thomas was named to the All-Tournament team, capped off by her 28 point performance against Miami Hamilton