The Monmouth University women’s basketball team had a busy week, winning a thrilling overtime game at Marist before falling to Fairleigh Dickinson. The two games showed both the team’s strengths and areas where improvement is needed.
Monmouth’s win at Marist on Nov. 24 highlighted the team’s ability to stay focused under pressure. After a close game that went back and forth, junior guard Gigi Gamble scored all 10 of her points in overtime, helping the Hawks pull away with a 72–64 win. Gamble hit a three-pointer early in overtime, added midrange shots, and made key free throws to secure the victory.
The Hawks’ balanced scoring and strong play inside the paint were key to the win. Junior forward Alexis Davis led the team with 17 points and 13 rebounds, marking her third double-double of the season. Senior guard Alexis Andrews added 14 points, and junior forward Divine Dibula had 12 points. Monmouth controlled the paint 38–24 and grabbed more rebounds than Marist, 45–41. The team also shot 41.5% from the field while holding Marist to 35.5%, showing both strong defense and good shooting.
Four players scored in double figures, showing that the team has multiple scoring options. Monmouth’s teamwork, defense, and rebounding helped them take control in overtime and earn a big road win.
Five days later, Monmouth traveled to Fairleigh Dickinson and lost 63–50. The game was close through the first half, but the Hawks were outscored 25–6 in the third quarter, creating a gap they could not recover from. Monmouth struggled to score, especially from beyond the three-point line, going 0 for 5, which allowed FDU to control the game inside.
Dibula led the team again, scoring 17 points. Although Monmouth had an edge in rebounds, turnovers made it hard to keep pace.
These two games show both the promise and the challenges for Monmouth early in the season. The team has proven it can perform under pressure, share scoring responsibilities, and control the paint. However, scoring droughts and lapses in execution remain as challenges. With Davis anchoring the inside, Andrews and Dibula providing scoring, and Gamble capable of clutch performances, Monmouth has shown they have what it takes despite the loss.
Looking ahead, the Hawks will face the New Jersey Institute of Technology on Dec. 3 in a Jersey Day in the first game of a doubleheader at the OceanFirst Bank Center. Monmouth will aim to bring the energy and focus from their Marist win. Strong inside play, balanced scoring, and steady effort for all four quarters will be key if the Hawks want to take advantage of playing at home and keep building early-season momentum.
With talent across the roster, Monmouth has the potential to turn moments of brilliance into consistent play. Their matchup against NJIT will show how well they can balance scoring, defense, and focus, which will be important as they continue through non-conference games and get ready for conference play.
