Governors State stayed perfect on the season with a 77–68 road win at Holy Cross, using a dominant first quarter and strong late-game execution to secure the victory and move to 5–0 overall and 2–0 in conference play. The Jaguars exploded for 30 points in the opening frame and led 45–22 at halftime before holding off a late Holy Cross push in the second half.

Much of the early momentum came from Cencere McDaniel, who put together one of her best scoring games of the season with 26 points, attacking the paint relentlessly and going 13-for-18 at the line. Her drives set the tone for GovState’s offensive rhythm, especially in stretches where the game opened up in transition.

Davina Smith delivered a major all-around performance with 21 points and 9 rebounds, consistently finishing through contact while anchoring GovState on the glass. She helped steady the team when Holy Cross climbed back within single digits late in the fourth quarter.

GovState also received efficient scoring from Alexis Warren, who added 13 points on 6-of-9 shooting, providing key bursts in the first and third quarters. Kalvina Eubanks chipped in 12 points, knocking down three threes and providing defensive pressure on the perimeter. At the same time, Journae Cotton added valuable minutes with steady on-ball defense and timely ball movement.

Despite Holy Cross outscoring the Jaguars in both the third and fourth quarters, GovState’s balanced scoring and control of late possessions allowed the team to finish strong and close out another conference road win.

GovState shot 45% from the field and went 25-for-35 at the line, using aggressiveness in the lane and defensive activity (9 steals, 11 forced turnovers) to stay ahead throughout all four quarters.

Next Game

GovState returns home on Saturday, Nov. 15, at 1 p.m. to host St. Francis at the ARC.