Marist Seeks Momentum Against Struggling Manhattan in MAAC Clash

NEW YORK (Interstat) — Two Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference women’s basketball teams looking to build on rare recent wins will meet Saturday when Marist visits Manhattan at Draddy Gymnasium.

The Marist Red Foxes (4-9) snapped a three-game skid with a 57-55 home victory over Sacred Heart on Monday. The Manhattan Lady Jaspers (1-11) ended an 11-game losing streak to open their season with a 60-45 road win at Saint Peter’s on Thursday.

While both records are subpar, the matchup represents a chance for either squad to establish early conference traction. Marist has shown resilience, with three of its wins coming in overtime or by three points or fewer. Manhattan’s victory, however, was its first since a 60-45 result on an unspecified date earlier in the season, and it provided a significant boost.

A key matchup will feature Marist guard Danielle Williamsen against Manhattan forward Colette Mulderig. Williamsen is coming off a 13-point performance in the win over Sacred Heart and has scored in double figures in three of her last five games. Mulderig dominated in Manhattan’s victory, recording a double-double with 14 points and 15 rebounds to go with four blocked shots. She has been a consistent interior force, averaging 14.3 points and 9.0 rebounds over her last four contests.

For Marist, support for Williamsen has come from Jackie Piddock, who dished five assists against Sacred Heart, and Justine Henry, who added 11 points and five rebounds. Manhattan’s win featured a double-double from Kristina Juric (18 points, 11 rebounds) and a well-rounded effort from Hana Mühl (6 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists).

Historically, Marist has been a power in the MAAC, but this season has been a struggle. The Red Foxes’ offense has been inconsistent, failing to reach 60 points in seven games. Manhattan’s struggles have been more pronounced, having been held under 40 points three times this season, though its defensive effort against Saint Peter’s offered a positive sign.

Saturday’s contest opens a critical January conference stretch for both teams. Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. EST.