From NYU Athletics

The New York University women's basketball team defeated Emory University 67-60 on Sunday afternoon, February 8, in Atlanta, GA.

The Violets (18-2, 7-2 University Athletic Association) entered the contest ranked #8 (D3hoops.com/USA Today) in Division III.

NYU found itself trailing 28-27 following a first half that saw nine ties and seven lead changes. The Violets were able to stay within one point due to their stout defense, holding the Eagles to just 22.9 percent (8-of-35) from the floor, including 1-of-6 (16.7 percent) from three-point range.

In the second half, NYU blazed out of the gate and went on a 16-2 run to jump out to a 44-30 run. The Violets were able to hold off Emory for the remainder of the contest and come out with their 18th victory of the season.

Two days after a tough rebounding performance against the University of Rochester. the Violets came out strong and crashed the boards hard on Sunday. NYU outrebounded the Eagles 59-31, including 22-12 on the offensive glass. The Violets also held the advantage on the low post, outscoring Emory 36-24 in points in the paint.

"Yesterday in practice we just made sure to go over that it was not just about getting the rebound, but the process leading up to it," said NYU Head Coach Lauren Hall-Gregory. "With our players, it's never a lack of effort. It's more just focusing on the little details, and they really did that today. I'm really proud of them for committing to that."

HIGHLIGHTS:

- Kaitlyn Read had another great all-around game during her team-high 33 minutes against the Eagles. The sophomore guard led all players with a season-high 16 rebounds. She also chipped in 14 points, a game-best five assists and was 8-of-9 from the free throw line.

"Kaitlyn is the sort of player that whatever you need from her she's willing to do. Tonight it was rebounding, which she knew was important to get the win," continued Hall-Gregory. "She certainly is a clutch player. You can count on her to hit big shots, get stops and hit her free throws."

- Megan Dawe scored a team-high 17 points and grabbed eight rebounds in 20 minutes.

"Megan had a great performance today. She knew that they were going to have a hard time guarding her in the paint," said Hall-Gregory. "She really stepped up and was a warrior for us down low."

- Riley Wurtz also had a nice all-around performance. The junior pulled down nine rebounds, while scoring seven points and dishing out three assists.

"I think Riley had a great game. She really supplied a lot of energy in the first half and came up with some big loose balls and offensive rebounds," Hall-Gregory said. "The pass that she made to Megan in one of the last possessions was unbelievable."

- Emily Rowe finished with six points and six rebounds in 22 minutes.