Grand Rapids, Mich. – With Thanksgiving break just hours away, the Aquinas women's basketball team isn't looking to talk turkey — they're locked in on a crucial WHAC showdown at the Sturrus against UM-Dearborn. Every conference game matters in the long grind of the WHAC season, and the Saints know there's no room for leftovers when it comes to momentum. Before anyone can think about heading home for the holiday, AQ aims to serve up a focused, disciplined performance on their home floor and head into the break with a feast-worthy win.

Aquinas 67, UM-Dearborn 55

Aquinas put together a balanced and disciplined effort on Tuesday night, controlling long stretches of the contest and using a combination of interior strength and timely perimeter shooting to earn the WHAC victory. Paige Guernsey was a force from the jump, battling inside for offensive rebounds, finishing at the rim, and setting the tone with her intensity on both ends. Isabel Reemsnyder sparked the Saints early with quick scoring in the lane and continued to be a steady offensive presence throughout the night. In the backcourt, Rhema Dozier heated up in the second half, knocking down multiple threes that gave AQ separation and energized the Sturrus crowd.

Defensively, the Saints tightened the screws in the second quarter, holding UM-Dearborn to only five points and forcing difficult shots nearly every possession. Hope Kanouse and Hannah Gillette provided important minutes, communicating well, rotating effectively, and helping secure key defensive stops. Off the bench, Lakely Bottum, Lauren Meerman, Brynn Reams, and MJ Mikus all stepped in with energy that kept the rhythm steady while the starters recovered. AQ's depth and commitment to team play proved critical as the Saints stretched the lead to as many as 19 early in the fourth quarter.

Down the stretch, Aquinas stayed composed, converting free throws, securing rebounds, and preventing any late surge by the Wolverines. Guernsey's dominance on the glass, Dozier's perimeter shooting, and Reemsnyder's consistent scoring kept the Saints in control from wire to wire. With contributions up and down the roster, the Saints closed the night with a confident and complete performance heading into the holiday break.

Inside the Numbers

   • Paige Guernsey powered the Saints with 22 points and 15 rebounds in a dominant two-way performance. 

   • Rhema Dozier knocked down five threes and finished with 19 points to spark AQ's second-half surge. 

   • Isabel Reemsnyder added 16 points on 7-of-14 shooting, giving Aquinas steady scoring all night. 

   • Aquinas out-rebounded UM-Dearborn 47–32, including 38 defensive boards. 

   • The Saints shot 46.2% from the field and posted a 24-point third quarter to pull away.
   
   • Wolverine starter Tori Kostuck ended the game with 6 fouls, seriously

Coach's Comments

After the game, Head Coach Brian Morris talked about where his team is and what lies ahead:
"Tonight was exactly the kind of effort we needed heading into the break. We defended, we shared the ball, and we played with the energy you need to win conference games. The WHAC is a grind, and every night demands our best. I'm proud of how this group responded, and I'm excited about the momentum we're starting to build."

Up Next

Aquinas will enjoy Thanksgiving break before returning to the hardwood. The Saints will host Rochester Christian on Wednesday, December 3, at 5:30 PM as part of a basketball doubleheader, with the men's game to follow. Be sure to visit AQSaints.com for live stats, streaming links, and complete post-game coverage. Gobble Gobble.