Phoenixville, PA - The University of Valley Forge Women's Basketball team opened the 2017-2018 season in convincing fashion by beating the Nittany Lions of Penn State York 77-54.
 
UVF opened up their season fast, with the first points scored by Freshman Amaya Brown, triggering a 10-0 run in the first four minutes. Valley Forge would not allow Penn State to come within six points, holding the Lions to just 10 points while scoring 19 of their own. The Lions would strike first in the second quarter, but the Patriots would win the half, giving themselves a 19-point lead, much of which coming on an impressive 18-5 run. Jhanel Brown displayed her dominance in the paint, scoring 10 of those 18 points, leading the Patriots to a 41-22 advantage heading into halftime.
 
Valley Forge came out of the half firing, pouring on a 9-1 run, led by an and-one from Natalie Cortez. The Patriots' offense would continue to press throughout the quarter, having a 36-point lead with 4:21 remaining in the third at a score of 62-26. Entering the final quarter at 67-36, Penn State made a desperate comeback attempt, putting up 18 points throughout the quarter. Valley Forge would be sure the seal the contest with 10 more of their own though, coming away with the commanding 77-54 win in their home opener.
 
A Look at the Numbers
The Patriots dominated the battle inside. Valley Forge scored 44 points in the paint, compared to just 14 by Penn State. Despite losing the turnover battle, Valley Forge held the Lions to 29% shooting throughout the contest. Jhanel Brown led scoring and rebounds for Valley Forge, registering 18 apiece. Alea Flowers and Bailey Mayforth would also see double-digit points, registering 12 and 11, respectively.
 
Up Next
UVF travels to Allentown, PA for the Scotty Wood Tournament, first taking on Lycoming College on Friday, November 17^th. Tip-off is set for 1:00 p.m.

Go Patriots!