The Capilano Blues women’s basketball team claimed the PacWest championship title Saturday, defeating the Camosun Chargers 75-70 to book their tickets to the CCAA nationals.
The Blues took control early in the game, particularly in the second quarter when they held the Chargers to just three points for the entire frame. By the start of the fourth quarter Capilano had built a 17-point lead but the Blues had to hold on for life as the Chargers came racing back.
Camosun knocked down four three pointers in the dying minutes to make it a game. The Blues backcourt of Ashley dela Cruz Yip and Emma Cunningham cemented the game away by knocking down clutch free throws in the final two minutes. Capilano forward Carmelle M’Bikata was named tournament MVP after scoring 26 points and grabbing 16 rebounds to earn player of the game honours in the final.
Dela Cruz Yip nearly posted a triple double with 16 points, nine assists and eight rebounds while Cunningham finished with 16 points and five rebounds. Reiko Ohama chipped in 11 points, five rebounds and four assists.
It’s was the first PacWest gold medal for the team since 2010-11. The Blues finished in second place the last two years. Capilano now advances to the CCAA Women’s Basketball Nationals hosted by Mount Allison University from March 14-17.
- with files from Capilano Athletics
