This Friday evening, the Waterloo Warriors challenged the Carleton Ravens, aiming to start the month strong. The Ravens have dominated in recent years, claiming back to back provincial and national titles, but with the Warriors showing consistency this season, the match up promised excitement. This was the Warriors' return to regular season play at the Carl Totzke Court, where they welcomed a supportive crowd. Waterloo had started their season with a solid 55-41 win over the Lakehead Thunderwolves in October, setting a high bar for tonight's game.

Opening the game, Carleton scored first with two free throws, but the Warriors quickly responded. Kymora Stafford (Toronto) added a point from the line, while Yemi Oladipo (St. Catharines) made big defensive steals that helped maintain possession for the Warriors. Nehita Oko-Oboh (Ottawa) made her presence felt in the paint, securing offensive rebounds and converting them into points. The Warriors took their first lead with a three-pointer from Yemi Oladipo (St. Catharines), pushing them ahead 6-4. A block on Carleton's next possession and a layup by Jaimesen Newell (Brussels) extended Waterloo's lead to 8-4. However, by the end of the quarter, Carleton found some momentum and closed out with an 18-13 lead.

The second quarter opened with tight defense on both sides, with only a single free throw from the Ravens added to the scoreboard in the first three minutes. Waterloo fought to keep the score close as Charissa Virr (Burford) sank a layup on a fast break, drawing a foul and making the additional free throw. Though Carleton kept their lead into halftime, the Warriors stayed strong, keeping up competitive stat lines in rebounds and steals.

In the third quarter, the Warriors found their rhythm, outscoring Carleton 22-18 and pulling within seven points at 54-47. Waterloo's defensive energy was on full display, as they led in rebounds and matched Carleton in steals, with a remarkable 6-0 advantage in blocks. This quarter showcased the Warriors' defensive power, keeping the energy high on the court.

Carleton raised the stakes in the fourth quarter, extending their lead to finish with a 67-52 win. Despite the final score, the Warriors out rebounded the Ravens 41-37, showing resilience against the reigning champions. The rebounds were distributed among a number of Warriors showing the depth in defensive skill that the team has this season.

The Warriors will be back in action tomorrow, taking on the Ottawa Gee-Gees at 4:00 p.m. on home court again.