WPI 67, Maine Machias 32

Box Score    

Worcester, MA --- WPI had three different scorers in double figures, including a career-high 12 from Melissa Kuhn (Stoughton, MA), as the Engineers cruised to a 67-32 win in the opening round of the ninth annual WPI Holiday Invitational presented by Hilton Garden Inn.  The Engineers advance to Wednesday's tournament championship game, while improving to 6-3 on the season. Maine-Machias fell to 2-7.

After Maine-Machias opened the game with a 2-1 advantage, WPI took control of the first half with a 26-6 run, fueled by 15 points off of 14 UMM turnovers. The Engineers maintained a large lead throughout the second half, thanks to their defense and work on the offensive glass. WPI recorded 14 steals and held the Clippers to 26.9% (14-for-52) shooting for the game. The Engineers also pulled down 25 offensive rebounds leading to 18 second chance points, and enjoyed a 52-31 rebounding edge.

The Crimson and Gray also distributed the ball well, notching 17 assists and featuring 10 different players who dented the scoring sheet.

Serena DuBois (Bangor, ME) added 15 points, eight rebounds and four assists in 20 minutes for WPI, while Elle Fontaine's (Franklin, MA) 12 points and nine rebounds sparked a WPI bench that erupted for 35 points on the afternoon. Caitlin Macko (Cromwell, CT) chipped in with eight points and three assists for the Engineers.

Maine-Machias was led by Talaya Woodall (Bensalem, PA) who dropped in a game-high 16 points on 8-for-29 shooting. Woodall also pulled down a team-high seven rebounds. Kayla Wood (East Machias, ME) and Jennie Hare (New Limerick, ME) each added five for the Clippers.

WPI will take on the winner of Tufts-Catholic tilt in the championship game on Wednesday at 3:00pm in Harrington Auditorium.  Maine-Machias will take on the loser of Tuesday's late contest in the consolation game at 1:00pm.

Story written by Ray Cotrufo - WPI Athletics Department