The St. Thomas University (STU) Tommies edged out UKC in a tightly contested 54-47 victory during the first game of the 2024-25 ACAA Championship. The game, held on February 28, 2025, at the G. Forbes Elliot Athletics Centre, was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to find consistent offense. STU's ability to capitalize on key moments and their strong free throw shooting ultimately made the difference.

The first half set the tone for a competitive game. UKC's Norah Quinlan and Lauren Ford kept their team in the game with timely shooting, but STU's Paige LeBlanc and Charlee Connors responded with key plays to give their team a 12-8 lead after the first quarter. The second quarter saw STU extend their advantage, with LeBlanc hitting a buzzer-beating jumper to give the Tommies a 31-21 lead at halftime. LeBlanc finished the half with 9 points, while Quinlan led UKC with 11 points, including three three-pointers.

The third quarter was a defensive struggle, with both teams trading missed shots and turnovers. STU maintained their lead thanks to strong rebounding and timely baskets from Connors and Briana Bartley. UKC's Arek Akeg provided a spark with a three-pointer, but STU's defense, anchored by Defensive Player of the Year Kylee Roi, limited UKC's opportunities. The Tommies took a 37-31 lead into the final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, UKC made a push to close the gap. Norah Quinlan and Lauren Ford continued to lead the charge, but STU's Alyssa Jeffrey and Katie Vidito hit crucial free throws to keep their team ahead. Despite UKC's efforts, STU's defense held firm, and a late jumper by Paige LeBlanc sealed the victory for the Tommies.

STU's balanced attack was led by Katie Vidito, who finished with 14 points on 5-of-10 shooting, including two three-pointers. 

Paige LeBlanc added 14 points and 8 rebounds, while Charlee Connors contributed 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. Kylee Roi, last year's (2023-24) Defensive Player of the Year, made her presence felt with 7 rebounds, 7 assists, and relentless defensive pressure. For UKC, Lauren Ford was the standout performer, scoring 11 points and grabbing a game-high 16 rebounds. Norah Quinlan added 11 points, and Arek Akeg contributed 10 points and 11 rebounds, but UKC struggled with their overall shooting, converting just 34.5% from the field.

STU's ability to control the boards, with a 37-34 rebounding advantage, and their efficient free-throw shooting (62.5%) were key factors in the win. UKC fought valiantly but couldn't overcome their shooting struggles and turnovers, which STU converted into crucial points.

With this victory, STU advances in the ACAA Championship, looking to play Holland or MSVU tomorrow, showcasing their depth and defensive prowess. UKC's resilience and fight, led by Ford and Quinlan, kept them in the game, but ultimately it wasn't enough to finish there season with a win.