ASHLAND Oh. - The Mercyhurst women's basketball team went to Ashland University this weekend to compete in their holiday invitational tournament. During the first day of competition their record has risen to 5-0 after defeating Hillsdale college November 26th with a score of 77-65. With this win the Lakers ties the programs best start since 1996-97 season. 

The top scorer for the Lakers boasted five out of seven point scorers that recorded double digits for the team. Lead by senior Natalie Piaggesi who posted 18 points and shot 7-11 (63.4%) from the field and 4-4 (100%) from the free throw line. Followed closely was senior Alex Artise who recorded 13 points of her own shooting 4-9 (44.4%) from behind the arc and 1-2 (50%) from the free throw line. Sophomore Maria Lapertosa, was the third highest scorer for the Lakers by putting up 12 points in total shooting 4-7 (57.1%) from the field. Seniors Jalin Steel and Angela Heintz both posted close to identical numbers throughout the game, each one posted 11 points, as well as having four steals. Steel shot 4-9 (44.4%) from the field  and 3-6 (50%) from behind the three point line, while Heintz shot 5-8 (62.5%) from the field. 

As a team the Lakers shot 15-24 (53.7%) from the field and 5-10 (50%) from behind the arc. While putting up a solid offensive presence the Lakers also held Hillsdale College to 13-34 from the field (38.2%) and 2-7 (28.6%) from the three point line.

The Lakers will continue play in the Ashland Holiday Tournament tomorrow November 27th against the host team at 3 PM.