MIAMI GARDENS, Fla (OCTOBER 24, 2026) — The St. Thomas University women's basketball team opened its 2026-27 home schedule in winning fashion, defeating the University of the Virgin Islands, 67-44, behind a dominant performance on the glass and a strong fourth-quarter effort.
The Bobcats showcased their depth and defensive intensity throughout the contest, holding the Buccaneers to just 20.6% shooting from the field while building a lead that reached 25 points in the final quarter.
Jaliyah Weekes led the way for St. Thomas with a game-high 16 points and a double-double, adding 14 rebounds to go along with two assists, two blocks and a steal. Weekes was a force on both ends of the floor, helping the Bobcats establish control in the paint and on the boards.
Samantha Bautista provided a major spark off the bench, finishing with 15 points while knocking down five three-pointers on eight attempts. Isabella Rivera also delivered a strong performance, contributing 10 points and eight rebounds while going 6-for-7 from the free-throw line.
Morgan Taylor added eight points and seven rebounds, while Diora Ressaissi chipped in six points, five rebounds, two assists and three steals. Nuria Estrade facilitated the offense with seven assists, helping the Bobcats generate opportunities for their teammates.
St. Thomas held a 10-point advantage at halftime, leading 34-22 after the opening two quarters. The Bobcats continued to apply pressure in the third period before putting the game away in the fourth, scoring 27 points in the final 10 minutes. The team shot 56.3% from the field in the fourth quarter, including five three-pointers, to pull away for the 23-point victory.
The Bobcats' dominance on the glass proved to be a major difference, as St. Thomas outrebounded the University of the Virgin Islands 54-38. The home team also recorded 16 assists and nine steals, demonstrating its ability to create opportunities on both ends of the court.
Tiana Carey paced the Buccaneers with 11 points, while Daniella McGuthrie added nine points and Sarai Hodge contributed seven off the bench. However, the University of the Virgin Islands struggled to find its rhythm offensively, shooting 2-for-22 from beyond the arc.
The Bobcats are now 2-0 on the fresh season and look towards a Chicago road trip where they will take on Saint Xavier and the University of Saint Francis.
Tip off vs Saint Xavier is set for Monday, October 26th at 8pm ET. (7pm CT)
