Postgame Scout: Penn’s Win Over Harvard Was Clinical

By Postgame Scout

PHILADELPHIA — UPenn welcomed Harvard to The Palestra by shutting down all Crimson driving lanes to the rim.   

 Harvard could not get the ball into the paint, yet alone score inside.

 

On the offensive end of the court, Penn’s center Michelle Nwokedi dominated scoring inside and out on her way to 27 first half points and a career high 30 points. 

 

Penn’s 2-2-1 zone press negated any chance of Harvard getting their signature fastbreak going.

 

The Crimson could not muster a rally as they were plagued by costly turnovers.  Penn’s defense was quick with their feet and hands deflecting or intercepting Harvard’s passes and scoring 26 points off of turnovers.

 

Harvard was forced to shoot three’s in an attempt to score.  

 

Penn put on a passing clinic.  There were several possessions where the ball never touched the floor in the half court.  

 

Contrary to the very popular dribble/drive offense where you dribble and dribble some more, the Quakers caught the ball and looked to pass.  

 

They would not be rushed.  They caught the ball and held their position until they found an open player.

  It was as if they were window-shopping for the right pass.

 

The Palestra stands were full of girls, who were treated to great display of the game of basketball.  I hope those girls and the Welsh Valley middle school players, who played at halftime, can catch the basketball fever!!