Breaking: Laval Rouge et Or Upsets McGill Martlets in Overtime, Holt Scores Game-high 16 Points; McGill to Host UQAM Thursday
QUEBEC CITY — In a defensive battle that went down to the wire, Brinly Holt’s 16-point performance, including a critical three-pointer in overtime, led the Laval Rouge et Or to a 65-59 upset victory over the McGill Martlets in an RSEQ women’s basketball season opener on Saturday. The game was tight throughout, with Laval trailing by 11 points in the first quarter before rallying to force extra time. Fredérique Beaudry-Blais’ clutch three-pointer put Laval ahead for good early in the overtime period. For McGill, Daniella Mbengo led with 15 points, but costly turnovers (21 to Laval’s 12) proved decisive. McGill will look to rebound as they host UQAM on Thursday, November 13, at 6 pm at Love Competition Hall.
RSEQ Women’s Basketball: Laval’s Gritty Win Over McGill Sets the Stage for Thrilling Season
The 2025-26 RSEQ women’s basketball season kicked off with a bang as the Laval Rouge et Or outlasted the McGill Martlets in a defensive slugfest, 65-59, in overtime. The game, played at the Amphithéâtre Desjardins in Quebec City, was a testament to the grit and determination of both teams, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Laval’s Comeback Victory
The Laval Rouge et Or, led by head coach **Denis Plante**, found themselves trailing by as much as 11 points midway through the first quarter. However, they refused to go down without a fight. Led by **Brinly Holt**’s game-high 16 points and clutch overtime performance, Laval chipped away at McGill’s lead, eventually tying the game at 54-54 with just 44 seconds remaining, thanks to a pair of free throws by **Frédérique Beaudry-Blais**.
Beaudry-Blais then drilled a three-pointer early in overtime to give Laval the lead they wouldn’t relinquish. The Rouge et Or, who shot a mere 30.4% from the field and 22.2% from beyond the arc, made up for it at the foul line, converting 17 of 28 attempts (60.7%).
**Sabrine Khelifi** added 11 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists, while **Astan Waly Diarra** posted a 10-point, 6-rebound performance. Their collective effort helped Laval secure their second win of the season, improving their record to 2-0.
McGill’s Fierce Defense Falters in the End
The McGill Martlets, under the guidance of head coach **Ryan Thorne**, started the game on fire, opening with a 12-2 burst and hitting five three-pointers in the first quarter. However, their offense cooled dramatically thereafter, shooting only 31.0% overall and 29.0% from long range. They managed just six free throws all game.
**Daniella Mbengo** led the Martlets with 15 points, while **Seyna Diggs** pulled down a game-high 14 rebounds. **Emma-Jane Scotten** tallied eight points and 10 rebounds. Despite their strong defensive effort, McGill’s 21 turnovers proved costly, as they fell to 0-1 on the season.
What’s Next?
McGill will look to bounce back as they host UQAM (0-1) in their home opener on Thursday, November 13, at 6 p.m. at Love Competition Hall. Laval, now 2-0, will continue their homestand on November 15 against Concordia (1-1).
Did You Know?
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Laval’s Brinly Holt. Her clutch performance in the overtime period against McGill could be a sign of things to come this season.
FAQs
Who leads the RSEQ in scoring after Week 1?
After one week, Laval’s Brinly Holt leads the RSEQ in scoring with 16.0 points per game.
Which team has the best record in the RSEQ after Week 1?
After Week 1, Laval Rouge et Or has the best record in the RSEQ at 2-0.
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