Panthers hand Axewomen first loss of 2025

WOLFVILLE, N.S. — Acadia University fell to the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) Panthers 76-58 in a regular-season game at Stu Aberdeen Court on Friday night.

The game, part of U SPORTS Shoot for the Cure initiative, saw the Axewomen hit their fundraising target of $5,000 for breast cancer research.

Acadia was led by Bianca Helmig, who scored 18 points, hitting 8 of 18 shots from the field and adding 2 three-pointers. She also contributed 3 steals. Sarah Delorey added 17 points on 8-of-12 shooting and grabbed 6 rebounds. Bianca Minelli made her presence felt on both ends of the court, recording 2 blocks, 3 steals, and 6 assists. Samantha Russell chipped in 5 points and led the team with 5 rebounds and 3 assists.

UPEI was led by Lauren Rainford, who scored a game-high 24 points, going 8-for-10 from the free-throw line, while also collecting 7 rebounds and blocking 2 shots. Grace Lancaster added 21 points, including three 3-pointers, and converted 6 of 8 free throws. Naki Alonzo had a well-rounded game with 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 9 points. Devon Lawlor also contributed 12 points, including two 3-pointers.

Acadia jumped out to an early lead, holding a 23-19 advantage after the first quarter. The Axewomen capitalized on strong inside play, scoring 14 points in the paint, and shot 10-for-19 from the field. UPEI shot 8-for-20 but managed to connect on three 3-pointers.

The second quarter saw Acadia maintain its lead, despite being outscored 16-15 by UPEI. Minelli led the Axewomen with 6 points, and the team shot a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. UPEI struggled with its shooting, hitting just 5 of 18 shots but kept it close with effective free-throw shooting.

Acadia's offense faltered in the second half, as the team scored just 8 points in the third quarter, compared to UPEI's 15. Acadia shot 3-for-13 from the field and struggled with turnovers. UPEI, on the other hand, capitalized on free throws, going 6-for-10 from the line.

The final quarter saw Acadia's struggles continue, as they were outscored 26-12. UPEI's strong performance from the free-throw line, along with 4 three-pointers, sealed the victory.

The Axewomen will look to bounce back when the two teams meet again at 2 p.m. on Saturday.