Army West Point Athletics

Women’s Basketball Takes Down Loyola Md.
January 08, 2025 | Women's Basketball
BALTIMORE, Md. – The Army West Point women's basketball team (11-2, 3-0 PL) delivered a dominant performance on the road, defeating Loyola Md. Greyhounds (6-8, 0-3 PL) 70-55 in their first Patriot League road contest of the season.
The Black Knights' 3-0 start in Patriot League play marks their best start since the 2013-14 season, while their overall 11-2 record is the program's best since the 2015-16 campaign.
Kya Smith recorded a season-high double-double, scoring 16 points and grabbing 14 rebounds to lead the Black Knights. Reese Ericson and Camryn Tade also posted double-digit performances, adding 14 and 13 points, respectively.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Army set the tone early, with Reese Ericson knocking down a three-pointer off an assist from Fiona Hastick in the opening minute. Kya Smith dominated inside, scoring back-to-back fast-break layups to give Army a 7-2 lead. The Black Knights' defense stifled Loyola's offense, forcing turnovers that led to transition points. Midway through the quarter, Trinity Hardy and Camryn Tade facilitated ball movement, leading to an open three-pointer from Hastick to extend the lead to 15-4. Smith capped off the quarter with another layup, helping Army build a commanding 21-10 advantage.
In the second quarter, Smith continued her dominance in the paint, scoring off a well-placed assist from Hardy. While Loyola managed to respond with a few baskets, Ericson's hot shooting from beyond the arc kept the Greyhounds at bay. Army capitalized on turnovers, turning them into quick points. Despite a solid effort from their opponent, including a pair of buckets to close the gap, Army ended the half up 33-24, buoyed by key three-pointers from Ericson and Hastick.
The third quarter saw Army extend their lead with another strong start. Tade drove to the basket for an early layup and followed it up with a corner three-pointer off Hastick's assist. Smith continued to control the boards, securing offensive rebounds and converting second-chance points. Tade's three-pointer midway through the quarter pushed the lead to 13. Army maintained their momentum with solid contributions from the bench and a fast-paced transition game, finishing the quarter with a 53-38 advantage.
In the fourth quarter, Army weathered an early push from their opponent, who briefly cut the lead to 13. Soleil Montrose responded with two free throws and a layup, pushing the lead back to 17. Smith continued to dominate the glass, grabbing key offensive rebounds to maintain Army's control. Fiona Hastick added a crucial three-pointer, extending the lead to 62-42, the largest margin of the game.
Although their opponent attempted a late rally with a few baskets, Army stayed composed. Ericson sank clutch free throws, while Montrose, Smith, and Tade added timely scores to secure the win. Army's defensive intensity and rebounding sealed the 70-55 victory.
NEXT UP
Army returns to Christl Arena to face Lehigh on Sunday, January 12, at 1:00 PM.