Women’s basketball: In front of sold-out crowd, Smith College gets past Maine Maritime in NCAA tourney opener

Smith College guard Hannah Martin (22) goes up for a breakaway layup against WPI earlier this season at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton.

Smith College guard Hannah Martin (22) goes up for a breakaway layup against WPI earlier this season at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton. STAFF PHOTO/DAN LITTLE

Staff Reports

Published: 03-01-2024 9:48 PM

It wasn’t easy, but the Smith College women’s basketball team is into into the Round of 32.

The Pioneers used their defense and a huge edge in rebounding to hold off a push from Maine Maritime, 61-46, in the opening round of the NCAA Division 3 Tournament before a sold-out crowd at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton on Friday night.

Smith (25-3) will play Messiah in the Round of 32 on Saturday night back at Ainsworth with a spot in the Sweet 16 on the line (7 p.m.). Messiah got past Shenandoah, 58-57, in the other first round game played in Northampton on Friday.

Smith held Maine Maritime to just 35 percent shooting and held a 42-27 edge on the boards during Friday’s win. The visitors shot just 2-for-12 from 3-point range.

Ally Yamada led three Pioneers in double figures with 17 points to go with five assists and five rebounds. Hannah Martin added 13 points and Sofia Rosa tossed in 10 points and six boards. Jessie Ruffner (eight points, nine rebounds) and Jane Loo (six points, nine rebounds) also had big nights for Smith.

Yesterday's Most Read Articles

Easthampton woman pleads guilty to fatal stabbing of ex-boyfriend, sentenced to 16-19 years for manslaughter
Amherst planners consider modifying University Drive rezoning to protect shopping plaza
UMass basketball: Rahsool Diggins pours in career-high 26 points, newcomers also shine as Minutemen rout UNH in season opener 103-74
Guest columnist Mayor Nicole LaChapelle: Richie Neal — Delivering results for the 1st Congressional District
Decision time: Big day expected at Pioneer Valley polls
Amherst police arrest, ticket dozens for noise, drinking over weekend