The New York University women's basketball team won its 2013-14 season-opener in decisive fasion, downing St. Joseph's College-Brooklyn 76-34 in the first round of the NYU Tip-Off Tournament on Friday night, November 15, at the Coles Sports Center in Manhattan, NY.

NYU was led by freshman center Emily Rowe (13 points, nine rebounds) and sophomore guard Maya Wasowicz (11 points, four rebounds).

The Violets took control early, jumping out to a 33-12 lead after one half of play. When the second half began, NYU kept its foot on the gas en route to a 42-point victory and a spot in the championship game. The Violets have now secured a spot in each of the finals game of the NYU Tip-Off Tournament since it began for the women during the 2002-03 season.

HIGHLIGHTS:

- Reigning University Athletic Association (UAA) Rookie of the Year, sophomore forward Megan Dawe had a good showing, pouring in 10 points and pulling down six boards in just 21 minutes.

- Freshmen Amy Harioka and Lindsey Oldshue contributed seven points apiece in their collegiate debuts.

- Junior point guard Melissa Peng scored five points, while guards sophomore Riley Wurtz and freshman Kaitlyn Read recorded six points and four assists each.

- Freshmen Melanie Repella (four points, seven rebounds) and Simone Jaques (three points), and senior Sam Hickey (two points, one assist) all contributed in their collegiate debuts, as well.

"It was a great team effort for us today," said Head Coach Lauren Hall-Gregory. "A lot of people gave us quality minutes. Each game is about us continuing to improve, see what our strengths are and work on our weaknesses. The intensity level went up each time someone subbed in and I was really proud of that."

The Violets will be back on the court at on Saturday, November 16, at 8:00 p.m. for the NYU Tip-Off championship game. NYU will meet the winner of the second half of Friday night's doubleheader between the College of Staten Island and Springfield College.