The Golden Grizzlies women’s basketball team was a fun squad to watch defending home court on Sunday, Jan. 15 in their game against Wright State.

Brooke Quarles-Daniels was incredible, scoring a game-high 17 points. She was doing it all, making everything look so effortless. A true point guard, indeed. 

This team is so good at anticipating the ball. When the Raiders found themselves getting into the groove of things, Aaliyah McQueen would put a stop to this, with a fast break layup off a steal. Great defense and quality offense done by her. 

Senior leader Breanne Beatty is such a valuable piece to this team. With no hesitation, she will nail the 3-pointer coming straight into the second quarter. 

Kennedie Montue was active on the defensive side, forcing a Wright State turnover. She also contributed 10 points, going 2-6 from the 3-point line. 

The Raiders had to regroup. Wright State’s Cara VanKempen eventually tied the game at 36, but Miriam Ibezim answered with a great front, sealing her defender and putting it right up. An assist to Johnson was added to the stat sheet.

Big time block by the defensive stud Beatty wrapped up the third quarter, denying Wright State’s 3-point attempt. Beatty continued to prove why she is the best defender out there. 

Not only did Beatty end the third quarter — she also opened up the fourth with a bucket that put them up five.  

It was a one possession game with 6:50 to play after a left-handed layup by Wright State. 

A tough behind the back move by Quarles-Daniels allowed her to split the defense to find Alexis Johnson in the post, and from there she went to work. Her post moves are very efficient, and she ended the game with 11 points. 

Wright State’s Makiya Miller stole the ball, getting to the basket and scoring a wide open layup to give the team their first lead at 64-63.

Linda Van Schaik came alive in the fourth quarter with back-to-back shots. She played well on both ends of the floor, drawing an offensive foul that sent her to the line for two free throws. She connected both, which was huge. 

With 20 seconds left and Oakland up three at 71-68, the Raiders attempted a 3-pointer, but it was no good. Wright State kept it close but it just wasn’t enough, falling short to the Grizzlies by five. 

It was a hard fought victory for the Golden Grizzlies, closing out a 68-73 game. 

Up next, the Grizzlies will head to Calihan Hall to face their rivals, the Titans of the University of Detroit Mercy on Wednesday, Jan. 18 at 7 p.m.