Marshall’s Career-High 24-Point Outing Propels Miami to Thrilling 74-71 Victory over Jacksonville

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Natalija Marshall scored a career-high 24 points while burying 3-4 shots from behind the arc, Darrione Rogers and Haley Cavinder chipped in 13 and 12 points apiece, and the University of Miami women’s basketball team (2-0) defeated Jacksonville (1-1) 74-71 to earn their second consecutive victory to commence the season.

“I think what is unique about this team is that you see different people stepping up every game,” said Head Coach Tricia Cullop. “I think we have a lot of different people that can consistently step up for us.”

Miami had a stellar defensive performance in the contest, limiting Jacksonville to just 37.3 percent shooting from the field, while forcing the Dolphins into 19 turnovers. 

The Hurricanes’ bench once again had a tremendous impact on the game, outscoring Jacksonville’s bench, 25-12. 

Despite only winning by three points, Miami led for 37 minutes and 35 seconds throughout the contest. 

Marshall was sensational, as the 24 points marked a new career high. The Graduate Student had not made a 3-pointer throughout her entire career entering the contest, and she proceeded to knock down three shots from behind the arc. She also pulled down six rebounds, recorded two blocks, and tallied two steals in what was a tremendous all-around performance. 

Rogers also had an impressive outing, scoring 13 points on 4-9 shooting from the field, 3-8 from behind the arc, and 2-2 at the free throw line.

Haley and Hanna Cavinder each played instrumental roles in the victory. Haley Cavinder scored 12 points, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out four assists, while Hanna Cavinder scored seven points, pulled down five rebounds, and recorded a game-high seven assists. 

Miami got off to a strong start, as they built a five-point advantage at the conclusion of the first quarter after shooting 42.9 percent from the field, 42.9 percent from behind the arc, and 87.5 percent at the free throw line. 

The Canes struggled in the second period, shooting just 25.0 percent from the field and 20.0 percent from behind the arc; however, they knocked down 9-10 shots at the free throw line and maintained a five-point lead entering halftime. 

Miami extended the lead to six points at the end of the third quarter; but, Jacksonville made a late push in the final period, tying the contest at 70 points apiece. Jasmyne Roberts finished a tough layup with 1:53 remaining to give Miami a 72-70 lead, and the Canes played stellar defense down the stretch, as they went on to earn the 74-71 victory.

Notable Stats:

• Natalija Marshall scored a career-high 24 points, while making a career-high three 3-pointers and 13 free throws.
• Miami knocked down 24 of 28 free throw attempts for a clip of 85.7 percent.
• The Canes recorded 10 steals in the contest.
• Miami had 16 assists on 22 made field goals.

Miami will return to the court on Friday, when they are slated to travel to Gainesville to face Florida at 12 p.m.