Natalie Fratus scored 12 of her game-high 16 points in the second half as Pilgrim pulled away from Middletown for a 41-16 victory in Friday night’s girls basketball season opener at Middletown High School.

The Patriots forced turnovers throughout the game, limiting the Islanders’ offensive opportunities and building on a modest halftime lead.

Fratus, a junior, took over after the break, helping Pilgrim (1-0) outscore Middletown in the second half to turn a competitive game into a comfortable win.

Skylar Hawes added 8 points for the Patriots, while Lia Wasilewski chipped in 6 points and Maddison Belanger contributed 4 points.

Sadie Moloney led Middletown with 7 points in her junior season debut. Senior LaMaya Gonsalves added 4 points and sophomore Finley Berard finished with 3 points for the Islanders (0-1).

Middletown, coached by Phil Quinn, returns a young roster featuring just two seniors and will look to regroup as the season continues.

Photos by Justin Walker

Justin Walker is a Newport County native who specializes in sports, portraits, weddings and events as a freelance photographer around New England. Justin has over a decade of experience starting in college covering high profile events, collegiate and professional sports in Washington, D.C. His photojournalism and freelance work can be seen in various local and national publications. Check out his work at justinlwalkerphotography.com!