By Reagan Thomas · Staff Writer
The Grove City College women’s basketball team delivered a dominant Senior Day performance Saturday afternoon, rolling to a 76-45 victory over Waynesburg in PAC interdivisional action at the Grove City College Arena.
The Wolverines stormed out to a 13-0 lead and closed the first quarter ahead 24-3, powered by an early surge from the senior class. Senior forward Katie Hoff opened the scoring with two strong finishes in the paint and said the moment was meaningful for reasons far beyond the stat sheet.
“I wasn’t really focusing on the move or the shot — I was just happy to be on the court with the other three seniors playing the game we love,” Hoff said, noting that it was the first time all four seniors shared the floor in the starting lineup.
Senior center Meredith Sherrerd added a layup and two free throws during the opening stretch, and senior guard Reese Hasley knocked down a jumper before sophomore Kailey Devlin capped the run with a three-pointer.
Juniors guard Alexa McDole and forward Brooke McCoy contributed late first‑quarter baskets to extend the Wolverines’ early control. Grove City’s lead continued to build in the second quarter, eventually reaching 36-9 after McDole’s second three-pointer and a smooth mid‑range jumper from senior center Emma Ulmer.
“It always feels amazing to help and contribute to the team’s success in any way. We couldn’t have gotten to that point without the hard work from every single person on our team,” Ulmer said.
Grove City’s defense overwhelmed Waynesburg throughout the half, limiting the Yellow Jackets to just three of 33 (9%) shooting in the opening 20 minutes. The Wolverines also dominated the boards, finishing with a 61-33 rebounding advantage.
Hoff credited the team’s rebounding effort to its mindset and preparation.
“There’s a quote by Bill Russell that applies to rebounding: ‘Defense is all about wanting it more than your opponent.’ Coach has emphasized doing the dirty work, and everyone really wanted it today,” Hoff said.
Ulmer added eight rebounds, three assists and two blocks while anchoring the defense.
“Defense is my favorite part of basketball, and playing for my teammates is the best part of that. Playing with them and for them definitely motivates me to give all my effort,” Ulmer said.
Sherrerd led Grove City with a 15‑point, 10‑rebound double‑double, and Devlin added 12 points. Hasley distributed five assists, and junior guard Bethany Thompson collected 10 rebounds. Offensively, the Wolverines shot 43% from the field while limiting Waynesburg to 22% shooting overall. The Yellow Jackets, who entered the contest on a six‑game winning streak, were led in scoring by Mia Henkins with eight points.
Before tip-off, Grove City honored its four seniors: Hasley, Hoff, Sherrerd and Ulmer.
Reflecting on her career, Hoff said she hoped her impact would extend beyond statistics.
“I hope people remember me as a good teammate — someone they could count on, who never gave up and always put the team first,” Hoff said.
Ulmer shared a similar sentiment, emphasizing effort and gratitude.
“I want my legacy to be one of hard work and joy. My focus has been to give effort at all times, to glorify God and to enjoy these last few moments and practices I have left,” Ulmer said.
With the win, the Wolverines secured a home quarterfinal game in the upcoming PAC tournament, which begins Tuesday. Grove City holds a one‑game lead over Allegheny in the PAC North Division standings, with the top four teams in each division advancing.
