PEPPER PIKE, Oh. – Head women's basketball coach Deanna Richard earned her 100th Mercyhurst career win, as her team defeated the Ursuline Arrows 73-63 on December 7th. Coach Richard has played a pivotal role in the direction of the Mercyhurst women's basketball program since inheriting it during the 07-08 season. Bringing, a faltering program that went 7-20 during her first season, to the dominate team she brings to the court now which is 8-1 in early December.
 
The Lakers started the match off slowly giving up an early eight point lead to the Arrows six minutes into play. The Arrows were able to maintain control of the lead until five minutes of play into the second quarter where a layup by Maria Lapertosa swung the game into the Lakers favor. The Lakers were able to retain this lead throughout the remainder of the game. At its apex the lead stretched to an impressive 18 points above the Arrows score.
 
During their scoring run the Lakers were led by three seniors Angela Heintz, Natalie Piaggesi, and Alex Artise. The Lakers were able to generate most of their points from the fingertips of Heintz. Heintz led the game in points scored, putting up 22 points in all, shooting 8-20 (40%) from the floor and 6-11 (55%) from behind the arc. Following shortly behind were Piaggesi, and Artise who recorded 18 total points and 14 total points respectively. Both Piaggesi and Artise shot 7-13 (54%) from inside the three point line.
 
Defensively the Lakers were able to rip down 26 rebounds, force 12 turnovers ten of which were steals, these categories were led by Piaggesi. While they held the Arrows to shooting 24-63 (38%) from the floor and 9-28 (32%) from beyond the three point line. Leading scorer for the Arrows was Brigan Wymer who put up 19 points against the Lakers.
 
The Lakers are going to take the court next at home December 10th against the West Chester Golden Rams at 1 PM.