The Holland College Hurricanes secured a decisive 70-56 victory over the Mount Allison Mounties, advancing to the ACAA Championship final where they will face the Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) Mystics tomorrow. The matchup, held on March 1, 2025, at the G. Forbes Elliot Athletics Centre, saw Holland take control early and maintain their lead throughout, despite a valiant effort from Mount Allison. With this loss, Mount Allison's season comes to an end.
The first quarter set the tone for the game, with Holland establishing a strong offensive rhythm. Lauren Armstrong led the charge, scoring 8 points in the quarter, including a three-pointer, to give Holland a 21-14 lead. Mount Allison struggled to find their footing, with Amelia Mitchell being one of the few bright spots, scoring 6 points in the quarter. Jillian Mumford also made her presence felt early, contributing with her defense and rebounding.
The second quarter saw Holland extend their lead with a balanced attack. Isabelle McGeoghegan provided a spark off the bench, hitting 2 three-pointers and adding 8 points in the quarter. Mount Allison's Katie Feasby and Jillian Mumford tried to keep their team in the game, with Mumford showcasing her versatility on both ends of the floor. However, Holland's defense, anchored by Nykeva Brown and Vataya Talbot, limited Mount Allison's scoring opportunities. By halftime, Holland had built a 41-28 lead.
The third quarter was more of the same, as Holland continued to dominate on both ends of the court. Lauren Armstrong and Nykeva Brown combined for 10 points in the quarter, while Alexa Rancourt contributed with her rebounding and playmaking. Mount Allison's Amelia Mitchell continued to fight, adding 6 points in the quarter, and Jillian Mumford provided key defensive stops and rebounds. Despite their efforts, Holland's relentless defense forced 4 turnovers, which they converted into 6 points. By the end of the third quarter, Holland had extended their lead to 59-45.
In the fourth quarter, Mount Allison made a push to close the gap.
Katie Feasby and Amelia Mitchell continued to lead the charge, while Jillian Mumford's defensive intensity and rebounding kept Mount Allison within striking distance. However, Holland's Lauren Armstrong and Nykeva Brown hit crucial free throws to keep their team ahead. Despite Mount Allison's efforts, Holland's defense held firm, and a late jumper by Isabelle McGeoghegan sealed the victory for the Hurricanes.
Holland's balanced attack was led by Lauren Armstrong, who finished with 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, showcasing her all-around impact. Isabelle McGeoghegan added 12 points off the bench, including 2 three-pointers, while Nykeva Brown contributed 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists. For Mount Allison, Amelia Mitchell was the standout performer, scoring 16 points and grabbing 15 rebounds, while Katie Feasby added 10 points and 4 assists. Jillian Mumford also had a strong game, finishing with 5 points, 7 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 4 steals, highlighting her defensive prowess and all-around contributions.
Holland's efficient shooting (37.9% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range) and strong free-throw shooting (19-of-34) were key factors in the win. Mount Allison struggled with their overall shooting, converting just 32.8% from the field and 9.5% from beyond the arc, which proved costly.
With this victory, Holland advances to the ACAA Championship final, where they will face MSVU tomorrow. Mount Allison's season comes to an end, but their resilience and fight, led by Mitchell, Feasby, and Mumford, kept them competitive throughout the game. Holland will now turn their focus to the final, aiming to claim the championship title.