The #6 Merrimack Warriors pulled off an impressive upset over #3 Siena, securing a 72-66 victory in a tightly contested matchup. Behind stellar performances from their top players, Merrimack showcased resilience and determination to advance in the tournament.
Thali Shepard Leads the Charge
Merrimack’s Thali Shepard was the star of the night, delivering a game-high 27 points and pulling down 7 rebounds. Her offensive dominance kept the Warriors in control for most of the game, as she consistently found ways to score against Siena’s defense.
Balanced Effort from Merrimack
Shepard wasn’t alone in her efforts, as teammate Rose also put together an impressive double-double performance. Rose contributed 14 points and secured 11 rebounds, playing a crucial role in both scoring and rebounding battles. Merrimack’s ability to control the boards gave them second-chance opportunities that proved to be key in their victory.
Siena’s Effort Falls Short
Despite the loss, Siena fought hard throughout the game, led by Ahniysha Jackson with 27 points and Seppala with 22 points in an attempt to keep their team in contention, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Merrimack’s balanced attack and strong defensive effort.
Final Thoughts
Merrimack’s upset victory over Siena proves they are a team to watch as they move forward in the tournament. With Shepard leading the charge and Rose providing critical support, the Warriors have momentum on their side. Siena, meanwhile, will look to regroup after a tough loss, but their efforts—especially Seppala’s performance—showcased their competitive spirit.
