CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — In a decisive display of skill and strategy, JJ Quinerly led sixth-seeded West Virginia to victory with 27 points over 11th-seeded Columbia, marking her 2,000th career point. Jordan Harrison contributed significantly by equaling her career-high with 23 points in the 78-59 win during the initial round of the women’s NCAA Tournament on Saturday. Meanwhile, Quinerly also showcased her defensive prowess with seven of the Mountaineers’ impressive 17 steals.
With this win, the Mountaineers (25-7) are set to meet the winner between No. 3 North Carolina and No. 14 Oregon State on Monday, eyeing their first Sweet 16 appearance since 1992. “It’s exhilarating to advance during this time of the year,” expressed West Virginia coach Mark Kellogg. “Overall, I think we performed quite well.”
West Virginia’s relentless full-court press created significant challenges for Columbia, which was fresh off its first tournament win in the program’s history. The Lions faced difficulty maintaining possession, committing 11 turnovers in just the first quarter—exceeding their total from Thursday’s triumph over Washington—and accumulating 25 turnovers in total.
“For our team, defense is pure enjoyment,” remarked Quinerly. “Truthfully, we thrive on staying active.”
Columbia (24-7) saw notable performances from Cecelia Collins, who scored 16 points, with Riley Weiss and Kitty Henderson adding 14 points and 13 points along with nine rebounds, respectively.
The Mountaineers’ aggressive start was evident as they made their first five shots, including two 3-pointers from Harrison, establishing a 12-5 lead. West Virginia concluded the opening quarter hitting 71.4% from the field (10-of-14), leading Columbia 24-15.
The lead continued to build in the second quarter with a strong 12-2 run that expanded West Virginia’s advantage to 39-16, entering the halftime break ahead at 46-29. They achieved a commanding 22-point lead during the game.
“West Virginia is an exceptional and distinctive team within women’s basketball,” commented Columbia coach Megan Griffith. “Their defensive strategy is unlike most teams, making it essential in March Madness to disrupt the opposition, which they did expertly.”
**Key Takeaways**
Columbia found it difficult to cope with the physical intensity of West Virginia, being outscored 48-20 in the paint. West Virginia utilized their leading Big 12 defense effectively, converting Columbia’s turnovers into points, establishing a lead they maintained firmly.
**Crucial Moment**
During the first half, Columbia went through a scoreless period of 5 minutes and 28 seconds while West Virginia capitalized with a 12-point streak.
**Looking Ahead**
West Virginia will face either No. 3 North Carolina or No. 14 Oregon State on Monday, as they look to continue their successful run in the tournament.
