MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The St. Thomas University women's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season in dominant fashion Thursday night, defeating the University of Fort Lauderdale Eagles 97-33 behind a balanced offensive performance and a sharp defensive effort throughout all four quarters.
The Bobcats controlled the contest from start to finish, never trailing or allowing the Eagles to tie the game. St. Thomas established its advantage early, taking a commanding lead in the first quarter before continuing to extend the margin throughout the night.
St. Thomas scored 22 points in the second quarter to build on its early advantage, then erupted for 27 points in the third quarter to put the game firmly out of reach. The Bobcats maintained their pressure in the fourth, securing the 64-point victory to begin the campaign on a high note.
Jaliyah Weekes led the Bobcats with 18 points, shooting 8-of-11 from the field while adding three assists and a steal. Diora Ressaissi contributed 12 points on an efficient 6-of-8 shooting performance, along with six rebounds, four assists, two blocks and four steals.
Samantha Bautista provided a spark off the bench with 11 points, including three three-pointers, while Sophia Taylor recorded a double-double with nine points and 10 rebounds. Morgan Taylor also scored nine points and made her presence felt defensively with five steals.
St. Thomas showcased its offensive depth throughout the contest, with 10 Bobcats contributing to the scoring effort. The team's bench accounted for 52 points, highlighting the impact of its depth and contributions from across the roster.
The Bobcats shot an impressive 54.2% from the field, connecting on 39 of 72 attempts, while converting six of eight shots from beyond the arc. St. Thomas also recorded 31 assists on 39 made field goals, demonstrating its ability to move the ball and create quality scoring opportunities.
Defensively, the Bobcats limited Fort Lauderdale to just 19.6% shooting from the field, holding the Eagles to nine made field goals on 46 attempts. St. Thomas also forced 21 turnovers and turned those mistakes into 35 points, while recording 11 blocks and five steals.
The Bobcats will now look towards their home opener omn Saturday, October 24, as they welcome in the University of the Virgin Islands.
Tipoff is set for 2pm.
