MESA, Ariz. – A strong second half from the University of Providence women's basketball team propelled the team past Saint Francis (Ill.) Monday afternoon. The Argos (11-3, 1-1) outscored the Fighting Saints (11-4, 8-1) 43-22 in the second half, winning the game by a score of 71-43.

Things were fairly back and forth in the first half, with no team pulling away from the other. After being tied up at 19 a piece, the Argos finished the half on a 9-2 run to enter the break 28-21. The squad really got going in the second half. The Argos raced out of the gates, outscoring the Fighting Saints 18-11 in the third quarter and 25-11 in the fourth quarter to solidify the victory.

"The third quarter was the difference," head coach Bill Himmelberg said. "We came out in the third quarter and executed our halftime adjustments. They really turned out well for us, and it helps when you shoot the ball well. We had a number of different people in double figures so it was nice to see us make some baskets today."

Five Argos finished with double-figures, led by 17 points from Reed Hazard. Parker Esary recorded a double-double for the squad, recording 14 points and 10 rebounds. Emilee Maldonado also turned in a solid performance, finishing with 12 points and seven assists. Brooklyn Harn finished with 12 points and six boards while Maddie Dixon just missed a double-double, finishing with 10 points and nine boards.

Jordan Pyle was the lone Fighting Saints to reach double-figures, finishing with 13 points and eight rebounds.

The squad will have to put this one behind them quickly, as they take on Benedictine-Mesa tomorrow. Tip off will occur at 12:00 p.m. MTN.

"We just have to continue to shoot the ball the way that we have been shooting," Himmelberg said. "We have to follow the game plan. It's going to be important for us to come out right away with energy and effort and making sure we defend the right away. Hopefully we can build on today."