Historic Night at The Pit: Women's Basketball Secures Season's First Win, Adams and Messinger Earn Inaugural Career Victories

PHOENIXVILLE, PA – February 2, 2026 – After months of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering belief, the University of Valley Forge women's basketball team finally tasted victory. Led by a spectacular 32-point performance from Lucy Mauerman, the Patriots defeated Central Penn 59-50, marking not only the team's first win of the season but also historic first career victories for head coach Ross Adams and assistant coach Ashlyn Messinger.

The Patriots improved to 1-17 overall, ending a difficult stretch with a dominant performance that showcased everything the coaching staff has been building toward.

Lucy Mauerman was sensational, putting together one of the finest individual performances in recent Valley Forge history. The sharpshooter connected on 9-of-19 shooting, including a scorching 6-of-11 from three-point range, while converting 8-of-13 free throws. She also contributed 6 rebounds and dished out 6 assists in a complete 40-minute masterpiece.

The Patriots dominated the third quarter, outscoring Central Penn 22-16 to build a commanding 49-38 advantage. Valley Forge's defense was suffocating, holding the visitors to just 33.9% shooting from the field and an anemic 18.2% from beyond the arc.

Telia Robinson provided crucial support with 9 points and 3 steals, while Gina Melendez orchestrated the offense with 7 assists to go along with 7 points. Naomi Spinosa added 6 points and 4 assists, and Ruth Tilton grabbed a game-high 9 rebounds while adding 5 points.

Central Penn (0-1) was led by Nyree Roberson-Waters with 18 points and 15 rebounds, and Mikayla Kirby added 16 points. However, the Patriots' balanced attack and superior ball movement (14 assists vs. 10 for Central Penn) proved to be the difference.

The atmosphere in the gym was electric in the final minutes as the home crowd urged their Patriots to the finish line. When the final buzzer sounded, the team celebrated together—a moment of pure joy after months of hard work and determination.

The victory represents more than just a tally in the win column. It validates the program's direction under new leadership and provides a foundation to build upon as the season continues.

Game Notes:

• Lucy Mauerman's 32 points is a season-high for any Patriots player
• Valley Forge's 59 points is their highest output of the season
• First career wins for Head Coach Ross Adams and Assistant Coach Ashlyn Messinger
• The Patriots shot 56.5% from the free-throw line (13-23)
• Valley Forge forced 24 turnovers and scored 20 points off those miscues

Box Score Highlights:

• Valley Forge: 59 (19-48 FG, 8-23 3PT, 13-23 FT)
• Central Penn: 50 (20-59 FG, 2-11 3PT, 8-17 FT)