In a thrilling Patriot League Tournament final, Holy Cross defeated Boston University 66-61 on Sunday to secure their first trip to the NCAA Tournament since 2007. The No. 2 seed Crusaders were led by Bronagh Power-Cassidy, who scored 21 points, including a crucial jumper late in the fourth quarter to quell BU’s comeback attempt.
Holy Cross started slowly, trailing 10-3 midway through the first quarter before going on a shooting spree that lasted deep into the third. The Crusaders made 19 of 23 shots and 14 of 14 free throws to build a 58-36 lead with 2:54 left in the third quarter.
However, the top-seeded Terriers weren’t ready to go down without a fight. Boston staged a 16-0 run late in the third and well into the fourth quarter, featuring seven points from Sydney Johnson. BU got as close as 62-61 on a 3-pointer by Johnson with 2:30 remaining, but it was Power-Cassidy who delivered the final blow with her jumper with just over two minutes left on the clock.
Power-Cassidy finished the game with an impressive stat line, making 7 of 10 shots, including a couple of 3-pointers, and sinking all five of her free throws. She also contributed five rebounds and five assists to Holy Cross’s victory. Janelle Allen added 16 points, Lindsay Berger 11, and Cara McCormack 11 off the bench as Holy Cross shot 52% from the field and made all 16 of their free throws.
The win was a historic moment for Holy Cross, who will be making their 13th appearance in the NCAA Tournament. For Boston University, the loss denied them a school-record for victories in a season and a second trip to the NCAA Tournament.
The Patriot League Tournament final was a thrilling showcase of college basketball talent, and Bronagh Power-Cassidy’s performance was undoubtedly the highlight of the game. With the NCAA Tournament on the horizon, Holy Cross will look to build on their impressive victory and make a deep run in the tournament.
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