Erie, Pa – Mercyhurst Women's Basketball wins their last game before the break as they defeat Lock Haven by a score of 77-66. The Lakers built up a decisive lead in the first half and move up to 7-4 overall record and 2-2 conference.
How It Happened
Mercyhurst's squad returned to Owen McCormick Court after a loss against Shippensburg yesterday. They learned from their mistakes and started the game strong as Grace Centrulla dominated their opponents in the paint.
The Lakers won the opening frame by seven points and continued in the second. Julia Buchman knocked down a three-pointer in transition, extending the lead to ten points, 29-19.
With one minute on the clock, Ava Waid drove inside and finished an and-one play with an acrobatic layup. The Lakers kept applying pressure and went into the break with an 18-point lead.
The second half was much closer, as Lock Haven tried to minimize the lead and come back into the game. Despite their efforts, the Lakers played their game and didn't allow them to get too close. Centrulla opened the second half with a nice mid-range jumper, followed by a three-pointer by Paige Woodford to make the score 50-30.
The Lakers didn't slow down and held on to their lead in the fourth quarter, eventually winning the game by a score of 76-66.
By The Numbers
Grace Centrulla led the team with 20 points on 56% shooting, and she was helped by Ava Waid with 12. Danielle Grim and Nicolette Arnold both added eight points each. Centrulla added nine rebounds while Ava Waid recorded a career-high three blocks. The Lakers dominated inside as they recorded 44 points in the paint and 30 points off the bench. They also scored 19 points from their opponent's turnovers.
What's Next
Mercyhurst is scheduled to play again on Friday, December 30th on the road against Mansfield. They return home on Wednesday, January 4th to open PSAC West play against Edinboro.
