ERIE, Pa. – The Mercyhurst women's basketball team dropped a 72-46 decision to California (Pa.) in Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Western Division play. Natalie Piaggesi led the Lakers in scoring with 10.

Piaggesi would start strong, converting on two of her first three field goals to give Mercyhurst an early 4-2 advantage. However, the Vulcans pressure defense would create havoc, causing the Lakers to turn the ball over 14 times in the first half. The turnovers would lead to 15 California points and a 13 point halftime lead, 32-19.

Turnovers and California's 10 offensive rebounds in the second half helped increase the Vulcans lead to as many as 31. The Lakers offense would never seem to find its rhythm, as they shot 37.0% (17-46) from the field and 31.3% (5-16) from three.

Piaggesi was the only Laker to score in double digits, while Alex Artise and Katie Fischer each added nine. Kaitlynn Fratz paced the Vulcans, scoring a game-high 25 points.

The loss drops the Lakers to 8-13 overall and 5-10 in PSAC play. California improves to 16-3, 13-2 PSAC.

Mercyhurst will take the floor again Saturday at crosstown rival Gannon. The game is set to tipoff at 1:00 p.m.