Mariners Move On

Recap courtesy the CCAA

Vancouver Island Mariners 56, St. Thomas Tommies 41

Trailing by a single point at the half, the Vancouver Island Mariners returned to the court with a revamped intensity that completely shifted the narrative. The defining moment of the matchup arrived in the third quarter, where the Mariners orchestrated a smothering 14-0 run. This decisive scoring burst effectively silenced the Tommies' offense and allowed Vancouver Island to seize a lead they would never relinquish.

Paige LeBlanc led the charge for the Tommies with a team-high 13 points, battling through a tightening defense to keep her squad within striking distance. However, her offensive spark wasn't enough to counter the relentless momentum the Mariners built throughout the second half.

Kaia Simpson commanded the floor for Vancouver Island, asserting her will in the paint to record a dominant double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Her ability to control the glass and create second-chance opportunities proved to be the physical edge the Mariners needed to pull away. This interior presence effectively anchored the defense, forcing the Tommies into difficult shots as the clock wound down.

Kaia Simpson is named VIU player of the game in the CCAA quarterfinal against St. Thomas. Photo: James Paddle-Grant

The Mariners advance to the CCAA semifinals against the Geants de Saint-Jean, March 19 at 6 pm Eastern / 3 pm Pacific.