In a thrilling showdown at Chartway Arena, the Old Dominion women’s basketball team showcased resilience and determination, defeating Delaware 73-66 in overtime. Despite facing a late-game challenge, the Monarchs rallied to secure their second win of the season.
Delaware initially shook ODU’s confidence, overcoming a 10-point deficit to claim a two-point lead as the clock wound down. However, it was Kelsey Thompson’s clutch jump shot with just 14 seconds remaining that propelled the game into overtime.
ODU Head Coach DeLisha Milton-Jones acknowledged the hard-fought nature of the win but expressed frustration with her team’s slow start, noting that they struggled significantly in the first half by making only one of their first 15 attempts. “These slow starts are becoming a trend,” she observed, but remained pleased with her team’s ability to secure the victory in the end.
Senior forward Simone Cunningham led the Monarchs with a career-high 23 points, complementing her performance with 11 rebounds and two steals. Cunningham’s tenacity was evident, especially during tougher times when she motivated her teammates to elevate their performance. Coach Milton-Jones compared Cunningham’s effort to that of the legendary Dennis Rodman, praising her presence in the paint.
Thompson, a senior from Mobile, Alabama, played a pivotal role, finishing the game with 14 points and nine rebounds. Her resilience was on display following a missed three-pointer late in the fourth quarter, as she recovered her own rebound and calmly sank a jump shot, a moment that proved crucial for ODU.
Despite a shaky performance earlier in the game, Simaru Fields turned it around in the second half, scoring 16 of her total 19 points to aid in the comeback. The Monarchs also excelled in rebounding, outpacing the Blue Hens 55-44, and their success from the charity stripe was a decisive factor, converting 22 of 23 free throws.
As the final quarter unfolded, the Blue Hens momentum surged, briefly flipping the script on ODU. They capitalized on multiple turnovers and took a short-lived lead. However, missed free throws in critical moments by Delaware allowed ODU to regain control going into overtime.
In the extra period, ODU’s energy shone through, as they exploited their depth, utilizing 13 players against Delaware’s nine. The Monarchs quickly established a lead, with layups from Dalanna Carter and Cunningham. Despite a late challenge from Delaware, they were unable to find the basket as ODU’s defense solidified their advantage.
Milton-Jones commended Delaware’s effort, particularly in light of their injuries, noting their competitive spirit throughout the match. The rich history of competition between ODU and Delaware, both former powerhouses in the Colonial Athletic Association, was palpable as each team played for pride and legacy.
Looking ahead, Old Dominion prepares for consecutive away games against William & Mary and East Carolina before returning home to face North Carolina Central, where they will aim to build on their hard-earned victory. This latest win not only boosts team morale but reaffirms their capability to perform under pressure, suggesting a positive outlook for the remainder of the season.