Recap

Depiro cemented their top spot in the MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League standings with a convincing win against Starlites.

Starlites opened the game with energy as Makaila Napoleon converted a turnover into a driving layup. Depiro quickly responded through Janai Crooms, who showed her dominance with a layup and a free throw to take the early lead. Depiro’s Kristy Galea made an immediate impact, scoring seven consecutive points, including a three-pointer, to extend the lead. Starlites struggled to find their rhythm but kept the game within reach thanks to Napoleon’s free throws and Sasha Lecuyer’s fast-break layups. However, Depiro maintained control, with Julia Borg hitting a three-pointer to close the first quarter at 24-16 in their favour.

The second quarter saw a spirited comeback from Starlites, led by Napoleon, whose three-point shooting brought the deficit down to just four points. Depiro’s Crooms responded with layups and second-chance points, keeping her team ahead. Galea continued her strong form, adding another three-pointer, while Claire Ciantar contributed with timely scores in the paint. Lecuyer and Michela Zammit Cordina kept Starlites competitive with fast-break points and three-point shooting. Despite their efforts, Depiro’s superior offensive execution, highlighted by Crooms’ scoring efficiency, allowed them to head into halftime leading 45-35.

After the break, Starlites ramped up their intensity. Lecuyer and Zammit Cordina led the charge with key field goals, cutting into Depiro’s lead. Napoleon remained the focal point for Starlites, adding to her tally from the free-throw line. However, Crooms dominated the quarter, scoring on fast breaks and second-chance opportunities to push the margin further. Julia Borg added to Depiro’s advantage with well-timed jump shots, leaving Starlites trailing 63-48 entering the final period.

In the fourth quarter, Starlites made a final push. Lecuyer’s three-point shooting and floating jump shots inspired the team, narrowing the gap to 13 points midway through the quarter. Napoleon’s consistent scoring kept hopes alive, but Crooms proved unstoppable, driving to the basket repeatedly and converting second-chance opportunities to finish with a game-high 37 points. Galea’s composed shooting added to Starlites’ woes, sealing Depiro’s control of the game.

Despite Starlites’ late surge, Depiro’s balanced scoring and defensive discipline secured a convincing victory.