The William Paterson Pioneers defeated the Stockton University Ospreys 67-57 on Thursday night to advance to the NJAC Championship game.

Stockton started Madisyn McNair, Bre Evans and Imene Fathi in the backcourt alongside reigning NJAC Rookie of the Year Zemirah Enalls and Lauren Winant. 

William Paterson countered with guards Luna Kirby, Mattison Chiera and Jada Jacobs, while NJAC Player of the Year Renee Wells and Patty Walsh anchored the frontcourt.

The Pioneers struggled to find their rhythm early as Stockton controlled the tempo. Both teams traded baskets in a physical first quarter, but the Ospreys’ defensive pressure helped them carry a lead into the second.

Stockton extended its advantage to 24-15 in the second quarter before William Paterson began to respond. Walsh provided key baskets inside, and Wells attacked the rim and drew fouls to keep the Pioneers within striking distance. Stockton led 31-28 at halftime.

William Paterson shifted momentum after the break. Kirby attacked the paint and converted at the free-throw line to give the Pioneers their first lead at 32-31. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third quarter, with neither side able to create separation.

Late in the period, Chiera converted two free throws and Kirby added a 3-pointer to push the Pioneers ahead, forcing a Stockton timeout.

The intensity carried into the fourth. Chiera opened the quarter with a 3-pointer, and Walsh added a basket inside as William Paterson tightened defensively.

Stockton made one final push with a 10-2 run that cut the deficit to four with seven minutes remaining. Wells answered with seven straight points to extend the lead to 11 with 45 seconds left. Wells and Kirby sealed the game at the free-throw line to secure the 67-57 victory.

With the win, William Paterson advanced to the NJAC Championship game for the first time since the 2013-14 season. The Pioneers will face The College of New Jersey on Sunday at 1 p.m. at the Sports and Recreation Center.