Essex Women Dominate Lackawanna, 86-34

Newark, NJ- The Essex County College women's basketball team delivered one of its most complete performances of the season Tuesday night, overpowering Lackawanna College, 86-34, on February 17.

From the opening tip, Essex set the tone with relentless defensive pressure and balanced scoring, building an early double-digit lead and never looking back. The Lady Wolverines shot an efficient 46.6 percent from the field and dominated the glass with a commanding 55-20 rebounding advantage.

Natalie Fonseca led the way offensively with 17 points, knocking down 7-of-14 from the floor while adding seven steals to spark Essex's transition game. Her energy on both ends helped ignite a defense that forced 19 steals and consistently disrupted Lackawanna's rhythm.

Michelle Hernandez controlled the paint with a dominant double-double, finishing with 10 points and a game-high 17 rebounds. Hernandez was a force on the boards all night, grabbing seven offensive rebounds to create second-chance opportunities.

Essex's depth proved to be a major factor. Katherinne Avecillas provided a huge lift off the bench with 15 points, including three 3-pointers, while Gabriella Brown added 14 points and two blocks in a strong all-around performance. Aniya Brown chipped in 13 points and dished out five assists, and Kayley Lynch contributed 10 points and eight rebounds.

The Lady Wolverines moved the ball effectively, tallying 15 assists on 34 made field goals, and protected the rim with five blocks as a team. Even when shots weren't falling from beyond the arc (5-of-24), Essex controlled the tempo with defense, rebounding, and efficient interior scoring. 

The next game will be 2/19 at Raritan Valley Community College at 5pm.