The Chi Theta Upsilon Gators defeated the Theta Sigma Chi Colts on Thursday, Oct. 31, as both teams opened their intramural basketball seasons.

The Gators, defending women’s champions, were up for a challenge against the Colts, who have added former Bruin Ginny Gause to their roster.

As the first half progressed, the score remained close and the intensity rose. Gator junior point guard Kara Moore led the team by example with her aggressive play, as she was often first on rebounds, diving after loose balls.

The Colts had weapons of their own, however. Sophomore and another former Bruin, Jenn Allen penetrated the lane and created shots for her teammates by collapsing the defense, and Gause led the Colts in points. Gause gave the Gators trouble all night with her triple-threat ability to shoot, dribble and drive.

The back and forth play continued throughout the second half of the game. The Colts displayed better teamwork than the Gators, as Jen Berry, Allen and Gause were able to work together to spread the Gator defense and keep the points coming in.

The Gators, however, were able to keep pace with their scrappy playing style, and the game came down to the final minutes and some crucial free throws. With less than a minute to play, the score was 27-26 in favor of the Colts. The Gators, having possession of the ball, took a shot to win the game. The shot rattled against the rim and fell into the hands of Moore, who returned the rebound and gave the Gators a one-point victory with seconds left in the game. The Colts couldn’t come up with any last-second magic, and the Gators earned their first win of the season.