The Library Media — Sports · Sports Desk
D’Este Leads North Alabama Past Fisk 92-48 in Dominant Home Win
By Megan McCarthy
FLORENCE, Alabama — Emma D’Este scored 20 points with eight rebounds to lead North Alabama to a 92-48 victory over Fisk at CB&S Bank Arena at Flowers Hall, improving the Lions to 2-2.
North Alabama set the tone early, winning the first quarter 25-12 and never looking back. The Lions outscored Fisk 28-11 in the second quarter to build a 53-23 halftime lead, then won the third quarter 22-13 and the fourth 17-12 to complete the 44-point victory.
D’Este led the way with 20 points and eight rebounds, while Marckalia Celestine scored a career-high 14 points with 12 rebounds off the bench. Brynn Lusby added 11 points off the bench, and five North Alabama players scored in double figures in total.
The Lions dominated the glass, grabbing 61 rebounds — one shy of the program record. Their 92 points were their most in a regulation game since 2022, a testament to their offensive efficiency and depth.
Fisk, an NAIA opponent, fell to 0-3. J. Ward led Fisk with 15 points and three steals, but the Bulldogs could not keep pace with North Alabama’s balanced attack.
North Alabama’s first-quarter performance set the tone for the game. The Lions’ 25-12 advantage in the opening period gave them an early cushion, and their 28-11 second quarter extended the lead to 30 points by halftime.
The Lions’ bench was a key factor in the victory, with Celestine and Lusby combining for 25 points off the bench. Celestine’s career-high 14 points and 12 rebounds showcased her impact, while Lusby’s 11 points added to North Alabama’s depth.
For North Alabama, the win was a chance to get back to .500 at 2-2 after a dominant performance. The Lions’ 61 rebounds and 92 points were both milestones, with the rebound total falling just one short of the program record.
Fisk will look to regroup after falling to 0-3, while North Alabama will carry the momentum from its dominant home win into its next game.
Megan McCarthy
Women’s College Basketball, The Library Media
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