Savannah Mackay
Blues Crew, Communications
Capilano University’s women’s basketball team started their Saturday afternoon matchup against the VIU Mariners determined to respond after last night’s loss but fell 61–63 despite a much better.
Mia Parkin made an immediate impact with a layup just 20 seconds into the game, followed by a 3-pointer that set an early tone. VIU quickly responded with a burst of energy, closing the gap to 9–10 despite Capilano’s strong defensive efforts. The Mariners briefly took the lead at 11–16, but a quick reset on the bench allowed Alexa Kusel and Sereena Hothi to hit 3-pointers, helping Capilano fight back. Strong defense in the paint helped the Blues finish the first quarter ahead, 21–16.
VIU opened the second quarter with a 3-pointer, but Capilano answered quickly with their own and a layup from Kusel. VIU’s defense disrupted Capilano’s plays, creating challenges against the shot clock. The Mariners then went on an offensive run, prompting a Capilano timeout at 32–36. The first half remained tight, with the lead rarely exceeding four points. Barcha Hnizdilova kept pressure on the Mariners with a 3-pointer and two layups, helping Capilano stay close and challenge VIU’s lead. Another scoring burst from VIU brought the score to 34–41, but a layup from Maddy Coffin just before halftime kept the Blues close heading into the break at 36–41.
Capilano came out strong in the third quarter, with Parkin making plays to shift momentum back in their direction. Both teams showed the intensity carried over from the previous night’s game. Kusel hit a jump shot, matched by VIU, bringing the score to 37–43. Another 3-pointer from Kusel, followed by a three-point play, evened the score at 43–43. Both sides continued to trade strong plays, and after another basket from Kusel, Capilano took a 46–43 lead. The third quarter ended narrowly, with the Mariners ahead 48–49.
The fourth quarter saw Capilano keeping the pressure high, challenging VIU to find openings. Coffin started with a jump shot that energized the team, while additional baskets from Parkin and Coffin tied the game at 54–54. The quarter remained tight, with both teams exchanging points until the final buzzer. Despite the loss, Capilano’s defense stayed resilient, showing the Blues’ determination and effort throughout the game.
The Capilano Blues return home on February 6 and 7 as they host the Douglas College Royals in their next matchup at the Centre for Sport and Wellness.
