The British Basketball League team clinched their second victory of the 2023/24 season by overcoming an early challenge from the Durham Palatinates. Durham displayed remarkable teamwork and ball movement in the first half, resulting in six assisted points and a commanding 10-3 lead.
Under the leadership of Carla Drennan, Hatters quickly rebounded from Durham’s strong start, displaying resilience. Drennan’s court vision and ball-handling played a crucial role in sustaining Sheffield’s fluid offensive performance.
The first quarter concluded with a close score of 14-12 in favor of the Palatinates.
In the early minutes of the second quarter, Janika Griffith-Wallace became a driving force for Durham, sinking four three-pointers and leading their offense.
Hatters responded with 8 points in the paint and multiple trips to the free-throw line, amassing 21 second-quarter points and nearly doubling their first-quarter total.
During the third quarter, the Hatters excelled by making seven three-pointers, with Georgia Gayle and Drennan finding their range from long distance. They seized full control of the game, while Durham struggled to contain Hatters.. Madison Washington and Emma Eichmeyer added 20 interior points by dominating inside.
Griffith-Wallace’s continued dynamic play for the home team created opportunities for Ottewill-Soulsby and Sophie Klassen inside the paint, also forcing Sheffield into foul trouble.
With a remarkable 55-29 performance in the second half, the Hatters secured a 32-point victory, maintaining their unbeaten season.
Final Score : Durham Palatinates 58 v 90 B Braun Sheffield Hatters
| B. Braun Sheffield Hatters | Georgia Gayle | 24 | 2 | 6 |
| B. Braun Sheffield Hatters | Emma Eichmeyer | 19 | 6 | 6 |