The Loyola University New Orleans men’s and women’s basketball teams picked up wins during Thursday’s homecoming games at The Den, completing a sweep in front of a large crowd.
The women’s team played first in the afternoon and controlled the game early. Loyola scored on its first two possessions and created separation with defensive pressure. The Wolf Pack forced turnovers in the opening minutes and converted those opportunities into points on the other end. By the end of the first quarter, Loyola had built a steady lead.
In the second quarter, Loyola continued to move the ball well in its half-court offense. The team found scoring inside and knocked down open perimeter shots when available. Defensively, the Wolf Pack limited second-chance opportunities by securing rebounds and closing out on shooters. The opponent struggled to string together consistent scoring runs. Loyola entered halftime with the lead after maintaining control for most of the first half.
Coming out of the break, the Wolf Pack extended its advantage with another scoring run. Loyola forced additional turnovers and pushed the ball in transition. Quick passes and strong finishes at the rim helped stretch the margin. The defense remained consistent, contesting shots and limiting open looks.
In the fourth quarter, Loyola focused on managing the clock and protecting the ball. The Wolf Pack continued to attack the basket and earned trips to the free-throw line. In the final minutes, defensive stops and key rebounds prevented any late comeback attempt. Loyola secured the win as time expired, giving the women’s program a homecoming victory in front of students, alumni and families.
The men’s team followed later in the evening and closed out the day with a win of its own. The first half featured several lead changes as both teams found offensive rhythm. Loyola scored from beyond the arc and inside the paint, while the opponent responded with its own perimeter shooting. The game remained close through much of the opening half.
Midway through the first half, Loyola increased its defensive intensity. The Wolf Pack applied pressure on the ball and disrupted passing lanes, leading to transition opportunities. Loyola converted key possessions late in the half to take a narrow lead into halftime.
In the second half, the Wolf Pack built momentum with timely three-pointers and strong rebounding. Offensive rebounds created second-chance points and extended possessions. Loyola also limited its opponent’s extra opportunities by securing defensive boards. The team’s ability to control the glass played a major role in maintaining the lead.
A scoring run midway through the second half gave Loyola some separation. The Wolf Pack slowed the pace when needed and executed in half-court sets. Ball movement helped create open shots, and patient possessions forced the opponent to defend late into the shot clock.
Defensively, Loyola continued to contest shots and rotate effectively. The opponent was forced into difficult attempts, particularly in the closing minutes. With the game still within reach late, Loyola protected the ball and made free throws to keep its advantage.
In the final stretch, the Wolf Pack secured key defensive rebounds and avoided turnovers. Free throws in the final minute helped seal the win. As the buzzer sounded, players celebrated at midcourt while the home crowd responded with applause.
This game was one of the most attended game days of the season. Both teams defended their home court and added conference wins to their records.
With homecoming complete, Loyola now turns its attention to the SSAC championship after winning their last home game on February 21. Both the men’s and women’s teams will look to build on the momentum from the past two games to improve performances as they finish out the season.
