Recap

Starlites started the new calendar year with a cruising victory against Athleta in the MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League.

Starlites started the game with dominance, capitalising on second-chance opportunities through Ylenia Bonett’s tip-in layup to set the tone. Makaila Napoleon followed with a series of free throws and a layup off a turnover, quickly establishing a seven-point lead. Athleta’s Francesca Sant provided an early response with a jump shot and a three-pointer, but Philippa Riolo’s timely layup kept Starlites ahead. Napoleon continued to shine, contributing from both inside and at the line to push Starlites to a four-point lead at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, Mikela Riolo extended the lead for Starlites with a series of fast-break layups, while Bonett added a three-pointer off a turnover to widen the margin. Athleta’s Kennedi Williams countered with a floating jump shot and Sant remained a key contributor, but Starlites’ well-coordinated offence saw Catherine Cilia and Sasha Lecuyer add crucial points. By halftime, Starlites had built a commanding 34-19 advantage, largely due to their ability to capitalise on turnovers and execute fast breaks.

The third quarter saw Starlites continue their aggressive play. Napoleon’s three-pointer early in the period set the tone, and she followed it with a driving layup to stretch the lead. Bonett and Lecuyer further extended the advantage with layups off turnovers, as Starlites’ defence suffocated Athleta’s offensive rhythm. Despite Williams’ determined efforts, including a pull-up jump shot and consistent free-throw shooting, Starlites’ balance across the roster ensured they entered the final quarter with a comfortable 56-37 lead.

Athleta fought valiantly in the fourth quarter, with Williams showcasing her scoring ability through fast-break opportunities and a three-pointer. However, Starlites maintained control, with Lecuyer and Zammit Cordina delivering floating jump shots and capitalising on defensive lapses. Riolo’s contributions in the paint and from the free-throw line cemented the result. Starlites’ cohesive play on both ends of the court sealed a convincing victory.