By Dylan Monico – Contributor

After an underwhelming first half for the Bishop’s women’s basketball team, the Gaiters were able to turn it around and have a fantastic finish to the regular season.

The Gaiters entered the RSEQ playoffs with a 9-7 record and sole possession of second place. The Gaiters hosted the third-seeded Concordia Stingers in Mitchell Gym on Wednesday, Feb. 28. 

Led by third year forward Victoria Guana (Mendoza, Argentina) and her season-high 24 points, the Gaiters would put an end to the Stingers’ season, winning 77-66. Guana is the RSEQ defensive player of the year as well as a RSEQ first team all-star. Other top contributors in the game were second team RSEQ all-star Kalina Alexander-Renaud (Montreal, QC) who would see her season high of 18 points and nine rebounds. RSEQ rookie of the year, first team all-star and all-rookie team member Eve Atchampone (Trois-Rivieres, QC) was also dynamic, contributing 14 points, four assists and seven rebounds. Laurie Lafleur (Quebec City, QC) was also named to the RSEQ all-rookie team for her efforts throughout the season. Wrapping up the conference awards, fourth year guard Jasmine Martel (Sorel-Tracy, QC) became the RSEQ nominee for the 2024 Sylvia Sweeney award. This award is given annually to an athlete who excels on the court, in the classroom and in serving the community. 

The Gaiters’ win against Concordia would give them a chance to compete for the RSEQ championship and a chance to punch their ticket to the national tournament. On Saturday, March 2, the Bishop’s Gaiters travelled to Quebec City to face a top-five ranked team in the country, the undefeated Laval Rouge et Or. After a slow first quarter, the Gaiters would battle back and enter halftime trailing Laval by eight points. The Gaiters attempted a comeback in the second half but unfortunately fell short. Kalina Alexander-Renaud led the team, dropping in 11 points, the team-high that game, and added three rebounds. Victoria Guana would grab 10 rebounds, also the team high. 

This is Dianna Ros’s second year leading the Gaiters as head coach. With her 9-7 record this season, her record has improved to 23-9 over her time as the Gaiters’ bench boss. Ros seems to be quite the hire by the Bishop’s athletic department. The Gaiters are set for a full recharge this offseason and are sure to be back in contention next season.