Richmond sets program record with 16th consecutive win to close regular season

The University of Richmond women’s basketball team closed out the regular season with a hard-fought 73-65 victory over Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, Pa. on March 1, 2025.

This win marks the Spiders’ 16th consecutive victory, setting a new program record and solidifying their momentum heading into the postseason. The Spiders finished the regular season with a 26-5 overall record and a dominant 16-1 mark in Atlantic 10 Conference play. This marks the third time since 1981-82 that Richmond has won 26 or more games in a season. The Spiders previously achieved exactly 26 wins in the 1990-91 season.

In their previous matchup on Feb. 13, 2025, the Spiders secured a hard-fought 59-51 victory against the Hawks, setting the stage for their further successes as the leaders of the A-10 Conference board.

Richmond and Saint Joseph’s traded baskets early, with neither team able to establish a commanding lead in the first quarter. The Hawks came out aggressive, capitalizing on second-chance points to keep the game tight. Richmond’s ability to respond under pressure was key, as they remained composed and executed efficiently on both ends of the floor. The Spiders found their offensive touch early on. Graduate guard Alyssa Jimenez set the pace for the Spiders with a three-pointer secured at the end of the shot clock, and a steal from senior guard Katie Hill resulted in a layup, leading Richmond into the second quarter with a 19-13 lead.

Throughout the second quarter, Richmond seemed to respond to the Hawks’ pressure well, with Hill scoring seven points to help the Spiders build a 38-28 lead. Hill led the Spiders with 13 points, seven rebounds and three assists. 

Saint Joseph’s stormed back in the third quarter, outscoring Richmond 13-11. Struggles from beyond the arc and a dip in shooting efficiency allowed the Hawks to gain momentum. Richmond’s offense slowed, with St Joseph’s being able to briefly overtake them.

However, the Spiders responded with a decisive scoring run fueled by junior forward Maggie Doogan’s dominance in the paint and junior guard Rachel Ullstrom’s shooting. Adjustments on defense helped the Spiders regain control and enter the fourth quarter with a 49-41 lead. 

Ullstrom provided a spark from beyond the arc, knocking down key three-pointers that extended Richmond’s lead. Her shooting created spacing for the offense and forced the Hawks to adjust defensively. Ullstrom finished the game with 11 points. 

A crucial defensive stand in the fourth quarter allowed Richmond to hold off a late push from Saint Joseph’s. With less than 9 minutes left of the game, the Hawks narrowed the lead to a one-possession difference, forcing a tighter defense and more strategic offensive plan for UR. Graduate guard Faith Alston broke Richmond’s four and a half minutes of not scoring with a turnover after the Hawks’ clean 7-0 run.

The Spiders forced key turnovers, leading to transition points that extended their lead. Saint Joseph’s attempted to make a last push in the final minutes, but Richmond’s composure at the free-throw line and strategic ball movement sealed the victory. UR’s ability to limit Saint Joseph’s scoring opportunities in the paint and contest shots beyond the arc proved decisive.

Four Spiders ended the game with double digits. Doogan led the charge, delivering a crucial performance that included two key baskets in the second half to maintain Richmond’s lead, ending the game with 13 points.

Graduate guard Addie Budnik made her presence known on both sides of the field, securing rebounds, blocking shots, and providing valuable points in the paint. Her defensive effort helped limit Saint Joseph’s offensive opportunities, keeping Richmond in control. Budnik ended the game with 12 points.

Offensively, Richmond relied on disciplined ball movement and efficient shot selection. Their perfect 8-for-8 free-throw shooting in the closing minutes further solidified their lead, demonstrating composure under pressure.

With the regular season now concluded, Richmond enters the Atlantic 10 Tournament as the top seed, aiming to defend their conference title. Their performance against Saint Joseph’s showcased their ability to handle high-pressure situations and close out games effectively—an essential trait for postseason success. The Spiders will make their tournament debut on March 7. 2025, facing the winner of No. 8 Fordham and No. 9 Duquesne, games taking place on March 6th at 11 a.m. 

Contact sports writer Farah Šertović at farah.sertovic@richmond.edu