HIRAM, Ohio - November 28, 2022 - Hiram showed little rust after a 15-day layoff, playing well on both ends of the floor to claim its first victory of the season over Thiel College, 77-64. The Terriers had season-highs in points (77) and three-pointers (10) on the offensive end, and forced 14 turnovers on the defensive end.

Jocelyn Janda led the charge in her first start of the season with 24 points on 8-13 shooting, including 6 three-pointers. Brooke Hickman showed her versatility with 10 points and 14 rebounds -- her 3rd triple-double of the young campaign -- along with 4 blocks in the post. Maddie Rakestraw also filled the stat sheet with 16 points and 3 assists off the bench.

"It was exciting to see different players step up," head coach Alex Dellas said after the game. "Really fun to see Jo (Janda) shooting well. Of course Brooke showed up. Maddie came off the bench, did a great job. A lot of players contributed."

The victory continues the program's success on its home floor over the last two seasons; Hiram finished 5-5 at home in 2021-22 and starts this season with a 1-0 record. The 77 points were its most in any game since January 29, 2022 against Wooster.

"It's the best (playing at home). No better feeling," Dellas said.

The Terriers started strong with a 6-0 run to end the first quarter to take a 17-9 lead. Five different players scored in the period, including 5 points from senior Taylor Valaitis.

That 6-0 run would extend to a 12-0 outburst at the start of the second quarter, with Ava Mory crashing the boards and eventually posting career-highs in points (8) and rebounds (12). Mory's 6 offensive rebounds would lead all players in the game.

Janda's breakout performance included 10 points in the second quarter and a number of critical three-pointers throughout the second half.

When Thiel cut the deficit to 6 points (61-55) with 7:52 remaining in the 4th quarter, Janda responded with a triple. When Thiel was within single digits again (66-58) with 4:54 remaining, Janda answered with another three-pointer. Her 6 three-pointers are tied for the 3rd-most in a game in Hiram program history.
 

Most 3-pt FG in a Game - Hiram Program History

2011	Kelsey Koskinen	8 at Marietta
2019	Alainna Conroy	7 at Waynesburg
2022	Jocelyn Janda	6 vs Thiel
2018	Josie Earnhardt	6 at Thiel
2009	Pamela Spencer	6 vs Ohio Wesleyan

Hiram continues its 3-game homestand against Hilbert on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. from Price Gymnasium.