Zalis Sets Westminster Single Game Scoring Mark

Zalis Sets Westminster Single Game Scoring Mark

Andrea Zalis tallied a game-high 35 points to break the Westminster gameday scoring record in Westminster's 82-62 win over Blackburn. 

The previous record was a tie at 33 points between Casey Lionberger (2001) and Mariah Dreisinger (2002). Zalis went 11-16 from the field, including 6-9 from behind the arc, and was a perfect 7-7 from the freethrow line. She also led the team in steals with four and pulled down five boards.

"Andrea is such a quality player," said Westminster Head Coach Tracey Braden. "She has worked tirelessly on her game. Any achievements or record she accomplishes is from a lot of time sacrificed to be in the gym. I'm really proud of her."

"I could not accomplish any of this without my teammates," said Zalis. "This truly is a selfless team and I am so honored to play for this program."

The win also marks Braden's 150th win as the head coach at Westminster. 

"I am so happy for Coach Braden," said Zalis. "She teaches us so much on and off the floor and we are blessed to have her." 

Westminster improves to 5-8 on the year and 4-2 in the SLIAC with the win. 

The Blue Jays started the first eight minutes trading buckets with the Beavers. At the 2:39 mark of the first quarter, Westminster was in a 14-14 tie. A three-pointer from Payton Beeler on the next play gave Westminster the lead and they never looked back. 

"Mental preparation must happen each game," said Braden. "We came out flat and it really showed on the defensive end. Poor rebounding and turnovers allowed Blackburn to hang around. They adjusted in the second half and really started to play."

Westminster went on a 12-0 run to end the first quarter and start the second, ending on back-to-back three-pointers from Bailey Mitchell. 

The Blue Jays allowed Blackburn to stay in the game, ending the half leading just just eight points. 

A 9-0 run sparked by six straight made freethrows from Beeler, Zalis, and Savannah Hanning expanded to lead to 62-43. Westminster outscoring Blackburn 18-15 in the fourth quarter to seal the win. 

Along with Zalis' 35 points, Mirrakohl Johnson (12) and Hanning (11) scored in double figures. Johnson also led the teams in rebounds with seven while Kelsey Ray tallied six assists. 

Westminster continues SLIAC play Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 6 p.m.

STORY COURTESY OF WESTMINSTER COLLEGE SPORTS INFORMATION