Lyndonville, VT - The Mustangs could not have started any hotter in their season opener, scoring 47 points in the opening quarter on their way to a 103-52 win over Vermont State Lyndon (NCAA DIII). They scored on the opening tip and never looked back, outscoring the more experienced Hornets in each quarter.

First-year, Ella Lavigne (Fort Collins, CO) had the hot hand, shooting 11 for 15 from the floor and finishing with 24 points, 7 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 assists, and 2 blocks. Another first-year, Jolien Defoort (Harelbeke, Belgium), was incredibly efficient as well, scoring 15 points on 7 of 9 shooting while also recording 4 rebounds, 4 steals, and a block.

Destiny Mora Lopez (The Dalles, OR) was perfect from the floor, going 5 for 5 and 2 for 2 from the foul line. She finished with 12 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Another returner, Chantel Ouellette (Auburn, ME) finished with 11 points, 2 steals, and 2 assists. Hazel Hernandez (Miami, FL) was the fifth Mustang to score in double figures. She connected for 13 points while also chipping in with 5 rebounds, and 4 steals. First-year Rosa Prieto (Miami, FL) was efficient in limited minutes, hitting for 9 points with 2 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 assists.

Marney Rees (Gleneleg North, Australia) recorded a game-high 8 rebounds in her first collegiate game. 

Kadienne Whitcomb led the Hornets with 12 points.

The Mustangs forced 35 turnovers (22 via steals) and out-rebounded the Hornets 60-39 (+21). 

Head Women's Basketball Coach, Andrew Morong, commented, "We are so proud of how our young team came out to play. We were intense, focused, and as disciplined as you can expect a team with ten first-years to be. We won every loose ball, we took offensive fouls, and our energy on the bench was solid. There is a lot to work on, but this was a great first step. Time to keep the team grounded, and prepare for three more games over the next 5 days."

With the win the Mustangs improve to 1-0 overall. They will be back in action on Friday, November 3rd at 7:00pm when they host USCAA D1 foe, Bryant & Stratton Albany, in their home opener. Come out to cozy Kirk Hall and catch the action live, or watch the livestream on the CM Athletics Facebook page or YouTube channel.