DeLAND, FL – The Stetson Hatters extended their winning streak to three games with a 69-61 victory over Queens at the Insight Credit Union Arena on Saturday. The win improves Stetson's home record to 7-1 and overall season record to 8-6. Additionally, the Hatters remain unbeaten in ASUN play, starting the conference slate 2-0.
Stetson was led by Cameron Thomas, who scored 18 points—all in the second half—on 5-for-12 shooting and grabbed a team-high seven rebounds. Jorah Eppley contributed 14 points, while Quentarra Mitchell added 10 points, two steals, and three blocks.
The Hatters also got contributions from Mary McMillan, who recorded her sixth game of the season with five or more assists despite being limited to three points. Mitchell's presence on the boards was key, as she collected a team-high three offensive rebounds.
Stetson out-rebounded Queens 37-36 and dominated defensively, holding the Royals to just 25.4 percent shooting from the field, including 18.8 percent (3-for-16) from beyond the arc. The Hatters recorded a season-high eight blocks, with Mitchell and Shelby Calhoun each rejecting 2+ shots. Despite committing 29 turnovers, Stetson capitalized on key defensive stops and free-throw opportunities in a physical game that saw the teams combine for 61 trips to the foul line.
The game began with a strong start for Stetson, as the Hatters opened on a 7-0 run and built a 17-4 lead late in the first quarter. They entered the second quarter with a 17-8 advantage and maintained control to lead 30-25 at halftime.
Queens briefly seized momentum in the third quarter, taking a 34-32 lead before Stetson responded with a 9-0 run, capped by Eppley's three-pointer, to reclaim a 41-34 edge. The Royals cut into the deficit but trailed 48-45 heading into the final period.
The Hatters held firm in the fourth quarter, using a 7-0 run punctuated by a Thomas layup to extend their lead to 58-49 with 5:53 remaining. Queens made a late push but could not close the gap, as Stetson closed out the game for a comfortable 69-61 victory.
Stetson now embarks on a four-game road trip, beginning with a matchup against Jacksonville on Thursday, Jan. 9. Tip-off against the Dolphins is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.