TORONTO – The Toronto Metropolitan (TMU) Bold women's basketball team defeated the Algoma Thunderbirds at their regular season home opener, 70-38. This marks the Bold's fourth consecutive win as they have not yet lost a game during the regular season. TMU's Haley Fedick was automatic from beyond the three-point line and produced a career high of four 3-pointers. 

Starting the game, the Bold were ready to claim the lead. Taking advantage of Algoma's saggy defense, TMU's Hailey Franco-DeRyck took to the paint, tallying 12 points in the first quarter. 

"We know that they sag, so part of the game plan was really using that sag. And I just really wanted to attack them," said Franco-DeRyck.

In addition, Fedick took advantage of her shot and began her 3-point streak in the first.

"I think just the confidence from my teammates and my coaches, them telling me to shoot my shot," said Fedick, reflecting on what drove her to shoot.

Working offensively and defensively, the Bold ended the first quarter with the lead, 26-11.

Keeping their momentum from the first, TMU continued to take control of the court in the second. Kait Nichols put pressure on the Thunderbirds as she accumulated 11 rebounds.

Working as a team, the Bold extended their lead to 46-22 at halftime.

TMU excelled defensively in the second half, locking down the Thunderbirds. Algoma was only able to score 16 points in the final 20 minutes. 

Franco-DeRyck stood her ground under the net, adding seven rebounds to her high-scoring first-quarter.

TMU evenly distributed efforts on the court. Veteran Kaillie Hall had a 13-point game, driving toward the net when possible. Additionally, Alex Pino, Lauryn Meek and Jayme Foreman generated some key plays, each finishing the game with five points.

Coach Carly Clarke reflected on the home opener win, "Good to take care of business today, thought everyone got out there and played some very valuable minutes and it's great to get such a balanced team win."

Franco-DeRyck shared that the stands were filled with the team's friends, there to support them at their first home game of the season. 

"It feels great, lots of friends and family here, it's nice to play in front of a home crowd and finally see our practice and hard work go to use," said Franco-DeRyck.

The Bold will look to keep their winning streak going when they face off against the Guelph Gryphons on Wednesday, Nov. 6. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Mattamy Athletic Centre. Catch all the action on OUA.tv or click here to purchase tickets.