Wildcats Withstand Vikings, 76-51

THE BASICS

Salem State, 51 vs. Johnson & Wales (RI), 76

Records:

Salem State University Vikings (4-4)

Johnson & Wales University Wildcats (7-2)

Location: Wildcat Center - Providence, R.I.

Date: December 9, 2025

THE LEAD

Providence, R.I.− The Salem State women's basketball team was defeated on the road by Johnson & Wales (RI), 76-51, struggling to maintain pace after the Wildcats pulled away in the third quarter. Despite a notable rebounding effort led by Ernidia Goncalves (Sr.), the Vikings couldn't overcome a tough shooting night and strong performance from Johnson & Wales' Grace Jaffray.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Vikings took an initial 2-0 lead on a jump shot by Amayah McConney (So.), assisted by Ernidia Goncalves. However, Johnson & Wales quickly responded, building a lead that Salem State struggled to overcome. Despite Yami Guerrero (Fy.) scoring a layup to briefly put the Vikings up 7-6 midway through the first quarter, the Wildcats gained momentum and ended the frame with a 17-10 advantage.

Salem State rallied strongly in the second quarter, outscoring the host team 17-13. The Vikings effectively utilized inside scoring, as Goncalves hit consecutive layups to narrow the gap. Key free throws from Goncalves and Guerrero helped trim the deficit, resulting in the Vikings trailing by only three points, 30-27, heading into halftime.

The third quarter proved decisive for Johnson & Wales, who outscored Salem State 25-17. While the Vikings attempted to stay close with layups from McConney and Sunali Carter (So.), the Wildcats consistently countered, pulling away to hold a commanding 55-44 lead entering the final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Vikings' offense stalled significantly, recording just 7 points while Johnson & Wales added 21. The Wildcats maintained their strong momentum throughout the final frame, ensuring the 76-51 victory.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

The Vikings' offense was led by Amayah McConney and Yamilette Guerrero. McConney posted 13 points, along with 6 rebounds and 2 steals. Guerrero contributed 12 points, including making 6 of 8 free throws, and added 6 rebounds and a team-high 4 steals.

Ernidia Goncalves provided a significant effort on the boards, leading the team with a game-high 14 rebounds (6 offensive, 8 defensive) while scoring 10 points. Sunali Carter was also strong on the glass, grabbing 7 rebounds (4 offensive) and scoring 8 points.

As a team, Salem State shot 26.5% from the field (18-68) and 0% from three-point range (0-10). The Vikings did find success at the free-throw line, hitting 15 of 22 attempts for 68.2%. Johnson & Wales was spearheaded by Grace Jaffray, who finished with an astonishing 41 points.

UP NEXT

The Vikings will be shipping down to Boston, to face the Emerson College Lions on Thursday, December 11, for a primetime 7 p.m. tipoff.

By Jack Zenger

Photo Credit: Lilly Nunez '25