INDIANA, Pa, - The Mercyhurst women's basketball team lost at Indiana (Pa.), 65-45, as the Lakers resumed Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) play. Natalie Piaggesi led Mercyhurst in scoring with ten points, pulled down two rebounds, and added two steals.

The Crimson Hawks got out to an early 12-0 lead to begin the game before Alex Artise got the Lakers on the board, cutting the deficit to 10. Mercyhurst would get as close as nine in the first half twice. Piaggesi converted a layup off a Angela Heintz assist at the 11:26 mark for a 15-6 IUP advantage.

Mercyhurst was down as much as 16, 27-11, with 5:57 remaining. The Lakers were able to cut the Crimson Hawk lead back to nine with a little over a minute to play when Mariah Penascino made a layup off an assist from Kelley McBroom. However, IUP'S Lindsay Stamp made a three-pointer to take a 12 point lead into the half.

Mercyhurst was unable to cut the Indiana (Pa.) lead under ten in the second half , as the Crimson Hawks defense would hold the Lakers to just 33.3% (20-60) from the field and 19.0% (4-21) shooting from three. The Lakers had 11 players score during the contest.

With the loss, Mercyhurst falls to 1-6 overall and 0-3 in PSAC play, while IUP improved to 6-0, 2-0 PSAC.

The Lakers will resume conference play Saturday at Edinboro. Tipoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.