Grand Rapids, Mich. – Often the adage "mama said there'd be days like this" is used in a negative light, but for the Aquinas Women's Basketball team, Sunday afternoon was the exact opposite. Everything seemed to go AQ's way as the Saints executed at an elite level from the opening tip, setting the tone early and never looking back. With precision on offense, relentless defense, and a complete team effort, Head Coach Brian Morris was afforded the opportunity to empty the bench and showcase just how deep and talented his roster truly is. Aquinas jumped out to a 12–0 lead and controlled the game throughout, cruising to a convincing 79–52 victory over Defiance.

Aquinas 79, Defiance 52

From the outset, Aquinas dictated pace and physicality, opening the game with suffocating defense and sharp ball movement that led to high-percentage looks. The Saints held Defiance scoreless for the first several minutes while building an early double-digit cushion. Aquinas led 22–12 after the opening quarter and continued to stretch the margin in the second, entering halftime with a comfortable 45–25 advantage.

The Saints came out of the locker room with even more energy, delivering their most dominant stretch of the afternoon in the third quarter. Aquinas outscored Defiance 23–9 in the period, turning defensive stops into transition opportunities and pushing the lead well out of reach. Isabel Reemsnyder was highly efficient, finishing with 17 points, while Rhema Dozier added 13 points on an impressive shooting performance. Emily Cline anchored the interior, pulling down nine rebounds and providing a steady presence on both ends of the floor.

Beyond the headline scorers, Aquinas received impactful contributions throughout the lineup as the Saints' balance and depth were on full display. Brynn Reams chipped in six points and four rebounds while providing strong minutes on the glass, and MJ Mikus made the most of her time on the floor with four points, five rebounds, and two assists. Hannah Gillette added four points and three rebounds, while Leah French knocked down a three-pointer and finished with three points. Hope Kanouse contributed four rebounds and an assist, Lakely Bottum recorded two points and an assist, and Nia Moncrief, Madelyn Smith, Lauren Meerman, and Mary Gadwood all made their mark as Aquinas continued to apply pressure with every lineup combination.

With the outcome firmly in hand, Coach Morris was able to go deep into his bench in the fourth quarter, allowing nearly every Saint to make an impact while maintaining the team's intensity and focus. Aquinas finished with 24 bench points, won the rebounding battle decisively, and recorded 22 assists on 28 made field goals — all signs of a team clicking on all cylinders.

WHAC Player of the Week – Paige Guernsey

Paige Guernsey continued her elite play with another near triple-double performance that set the tone for the Saints. The WHAC Player of the Week tallied 17 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists, narrowly missing a triple-double for the second straight game. Guernsey controlled the tempo throughout, consistently putting teammates in position to succeed while also attacking the rim and drawing fouls. She was nearly flawless at the free-throw line, knocking down 11-of-12 attempts, and once again demonstrated her leadership, poise, and all-around impact on the game.

Coach's Comments

After the game, Head Coach Brian Morris reflected on the strong start to the new year:
"I really love how this team is coming together. We're trusting each other, playing unselfish basketball, and getting stronger every time we step on the floor. When we defend, rebound, and share the ball the way we did today, this group can be really special."

Inside the Numbers

     • Aquinas opened the game on a 12–0 run and never trailed
     • The Saints outscored Defiance 23–9 in the third quarter
     • Aquinas won the rebounding battle, 51–35
     • The Saints recorded 22 assists on 28 made baskets
     • AQ received 24 points from its bench

Up Next

The AQ student-athletes return to classes beginning tomorrow, but there will be little time to ease back into the routine for the Women's Basketball team. On Wednesday, the Saints head up the street to face arch-rival and WHAC foe Cornerstone in a pivotal conference showdown. Tip-off is set for 5:30 PM, and all the makings are there for an instant classic. Stay up to date with all AQ Athletics by regularly checking AQSaints.com for stats, scores, highlights, and much more.