ADA, Okla. – The East Central University women's basketball team kicked off the 2023-24 season with a bang, cruising past Ecclesia College 76-16 in the season and home opener at Kerr Activities Center. The victory marks the third time in the last decade that the Tigers have triumphed in their season debut, securing one of the most substantial win margins.
 
"I am really happy we got our first win under our belt," Head Coach Heather Hurt said. "We all got to shake off the nerves and experience our first game together. We will continue to work on the areas Ecclesia exposed us and be more disciplined."
 
Tuesday's match began with ECU establishing a commanding 15-0 lead over Ecclesia in the first quarter, started by Mackenzie Crusoe's successful free throw at the 8:53 mark. The Tigers prevented the Royals from getting on the board until the last two minutes of the second period, closing out the quarter with an impressive 41-4 advantage heading into the break.
 
The Royals scored eight points in the third quarter, the most by Ecclesia in a frame while the Tigers maintained their dominance, dropping 18 points to stay ahead 59-12. In the final quarter, ECU continued their strong performance, adding 17 more points to lead as many as 60 points en route to the 76-16 win.
 
Mackenzie Crusoe led the Tigers with 14 points, going 5-for-10 from the field and contributing five rebounds.
 
Tatum Havens followed closely behind with 12 points, where nine of those points came from beyond the arc. She also posted a team-high nine rebounds on the night.
 
Jayden Weiberg pitched in 10 points and three assists.
 
In a noteworthy feat, nearly every Tiger player scored in the game. Makenzy Herman, Sincere McCallister, and Kayley Alt made their collegiate debut, while Chloe Malone, Eriel West, and Natalie Payne played their first game representing ECU.
 
As a nod to Native American Heritage Month, the Tigers sported Nike's custom N7 uniforms, symbolizing the friendship and fellowship of Native American culture through the turquoise color.
 
The ECU women's basketball team will hit the road this weekend for the Newman University Classic Tournament. The Tigers will take on Newman on Friday, Nov. 17 at 3:30 pm before taking on either Oklahoma Christian or Upper Iowa on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 1 or 3 pm.