Nerves of Steel in Steeltown

HAMILTON, ON. - The VIU Mariners are returning to the CCAA women's basketball gold medal game following quarterfinal and semifinal victories over the Mohawk Mountaineers (OCAA Host) and Dawson Blues (RSEQ Wildcard). 

Game recaps courtesy the CCAA / Mohawk College.

Quarterfinal: VIU Mariners 81, Mohawk Mountaineers 53
March 15, 2023

Photos - Box Score

VIU would clinch the last semi-final spot by taking down the host Mohawk Mountaineers 81-53.

The Mountaineers did put up a good fight early in the contest with the Mariners only leading by eight following the first 10 minutes.

In the second VIU would have their best offensive quarter with 30-points, which was the biggest difference of the contest.

Ranika Guyton of the Mariners and Rachel Guanzon of the Mountaineers were named 4imprint Players of the Game. Guyton had an impressive 27-points on nine-of-10 shooting and a perfect eight-of-eight from the free throw line. Guanzon put up 16-points with three made threes.

Semifinal: VIU Mariners 77, Mohawk Mountaineers 69
March 16, 2023

Photos - Box Score

For the second consecutive season the VIU Mariners will appear in the CCAA National gold game with their 77-69 win over the Dawson Blues.

Easily the most entertaining game of day two it was the Mariners that jumped out to a seven-point lead in the opening quarter. The Blues would respond in the second quarter to take a one-point lead into halftime.

VIU, playing with a chip on their shoulder with memories of last years gold medal loss, came out firing in the third quarter. The Mariners would hold the Blues to nine points and regain a 10-point lead.

While Dawson would chip away in the final 10 minutes, VIU found ways to hold onto their lead for the win.

Harriette Mackenzie of the Mariners was named a 4imprint Player of the Game with a massive double-double of 24-points and 17-rebounds. Christine Geraldo from Dawson would also be named 4imprint Player of the Game with 16-points.