KNAPP CREEK, N.Y. (Interstat) — The Albany women’s basketball team used a dominant first half to secure a 62-53 victory over previously unbeaten Saint Bonaventure on Saturday at the Reilly Center.

The Great Danes seized control early, holding the Bonnies to just seven points in the first quarter and building a 32-17 lead by halftime. Albany’s defense was the story of the opening half, forcing Saint Bonaventure into 12 turnovers and limiting the home team to 30% shooting from the floor before the break.

Delanie Hill led the way for Albany, scoring 15 points to go with five rebounds and four assists. Amaya Stewart provided a strong interior presence, adding 14 points and seven rebounds. The Great Danes also received significant contributions from their international contingent, with Julia Palomo from Spain scoring eight points and Gabriela Falcao of Portugal chipping in seven points and seven rebounds.

Saint Bonaventure, which entered the game with a 5-0 record, struggled to find any offensive rhythm against Albany’s persistent defense. The Bonnies shot just 2 for 15 from three-point range for the game. Aaliyah Parker led the Bonnies with 18 points and seven rebounds, while Ivona Djikanovic scored 13 of her points in the second half as Saint Bonaventure attempted to mount a comeback.

The Bonnies improved their offensive output after halftime, outscoring Albany 36-30 in the second half, but could never cut the deficit to single digits until the final minute of the game. Albany’s lead never dropped below 10 points until a late layup by Djikanovic made it 60-53 with 24 seconds remaining.

A key factor was Albany’s ability to capitalize on mistakes, scoring 15 points off 17 Saint Bonaventure turnovers. The Great Danes also won the battle on the glass, out-rebounding the Bonnies 35-28 and grabbing eight offensive rebounds.

With the win, Albany improves to 4-2 on the season, while Saint Bonaventure suffers its first loss and falls to 5-1. The game was played in front of an announced attendance of 413.

Albany will look to build on the victory when it hosts Rensselaer on Wednesday. Saint Bonaventure aims to rebound on the road at Cleveland State, also on Wednesday.