Freshman forward Kristina Danella scored 24 points to lead the University of Massachusetts women's basketball team to a 71-62 win over Fordham in the Atlantic 10 opener for both teams Saturday at Rose Hill Gym in the Bronx, N.Y.

Danella shot 4-for-9 from 3-point range, and added four rebounds, three blocks, two steals and an assist.

The Minutewomen (8-8, 1-0 A-10) lad 36-34 at halftime. After the Rams (7-9, 0-1 A-10) tied the game to begin the second half, UMass went on an 8-0 run that put the Minutewomen ahead to stay.

Stefanie Gerardot scored 14 points, and Teya Wright had a game-high 10 rebounds, six points and three blocks for UMass.

The Minutewomen host Charlotte at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Mullins Center.