BOCA RATON, Fla.- The Palm Beach Atlantic women's basketball team took a decisive 66-43 victory over Ave Maria University on Saturday, with a dominant performance highlighted by 11 steals and 34 points in the paint.

Anabel Ellison scored 15 points and recorded four steals, contributing significantly to the Sailfish's defensive efforts. Breeje Schuler led the team with 17 points and achieved a double-double by collecting 11 rebounds, while also blocking four shots. Darria Whitley added seven points and made an impact on defense with two steals. Anaya Smith contributed nine points and blocked two shots, bolstering the defensive front.

The Sailfish started strong with a quick layup by KB Hadley, assisted by Schuler, to open the scoring. Ellison added a three-pointer and a layup to extend the lead to 9-4 early in the quarter. Despite Ave Maria's late surge, Schuler hit a crucial three-pointer with 6 seconds remaining, assisted by Hadley, to secure a narrow 15–14 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The 'Fish opened the second quarter with a fast-paced start, highlighted by Ellison's layup at 9:53 that contributed to an early advantage. The team capitalized on turnovers and fast breaks, with Hadley extending the lead to 19–14 shortly after. Schuler's defensive impact was felt with a crucial block and multiple steals, aiding in maintaining momentum.

Ave Maria responded with Giavanna Rogers' three-pointer at 9:03, but the Sailfish kept the game close. In the final moments of the half, Khalia Whoodley tied the game with a layup at 1:20, and Whitley then evened the score again with a jumper at 0:43. Ellison sealed the quarter with two free throws in the closing seconds, ensuring the 'Fish held a narrow 27–25 lead at halftime.

The Sailfish turned the momentum in the third quarter with a decisive 9–0 run, initiated by Schuler's layup at 8:13. Schuler continued to impact the game, adding a 3-pointer at 7:29 with an assist from Whitley, and later contributing defensively with multiple blocks. The home team's defense limited Ave Maria's opportunities, allowing just eight points in the quarter. The 'Fish concluded the quarter leading 44–33.

PBA solidified their victory in the final quarter with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by a 9-point stretch that included two 3-pointers from Whoodley. Schuler contributed significantly with a steal and subsequent layup early in the quarter, setting the tone. The home team maintained defensive pressure, limiting Ave Maria to just four baskets and forcing three turnovers. By the end of the final quarter, the Sailfish had outscored Ave Maria 22–10, concluding the game with a decisive 66–43 victory.

The Sailfish return to the floor tomorrow afternoon at 1 p.m. when they take on Bowie State in their final game of the Lynn Holiday Classic. Bowie State defeated Lynn in the late game today by a score of 73-63.