West Liberty, WV- The Mercyhurst Women's Basketball team opened their season today in a PSAC vs MEC matchup with West Liberty University. The Lakers once again took West Liberty to overtime but fell short of the Hilltoppers by a score of 74-71.
How it Happened:
In a back and forth first quarter, both teams displayed high energy and plenty of offensive production. A full court press, paired with a half-court trap, helped the Hilltoppers grab a 21-14 first quarter lead. Leading the way for the Lakers in the first quarter was Bailey Kuhns with an early 6 points to go along with 4 rebounds.
The Lakers came out fast in the second quarter, scoring three quick buckets to bring the lead back to one possession. After a pair of free throws and a shot from deep however, the Hilltoppers built the lead back up to eight mid-way through the 2nd quarter. Mercyhurst made it clear that they aren't a team that goes away, fighting back once again to take a one-point lead heading into halftime, 37-36.
Bailey Kuhns led the way for the Lakers in the first half with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Danielle Grim chipped in with 8 points and 4 rebounds.
Heading into the second half the Lakers kept a small lead throughout the third quarter until a West Liberty three pointer tied the score at 47 with two minutes left to play in the quarter. The Lakers responded and went on a 4-point run to close out the third to gain a 51-47 lead heading into the fourth.
A shooting lull to start the 4th helped the Hilltoppers regain the lead, but the Lakers climbed back once again. Paige Woodford converted a 3-point play down the stretch before Lauren Klare made a layup to tie the game with 6 seconds left. A missed opportunity for the Hilltoppers sent the game to overtime.
Basketball is a game of runs, and the Hilltoppers finished the game on one, outscoring the Lakers 12-9 in overtime. It is the second year in a row the Hilltoppers have outlasted the Lakers in overtime.
Highlights:
Danielle Grim paced the Lakers with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 blocks. Bailey Kuhns also played well, totaling 17 points and 8 rebounds. Paige Woodford played tough and chipped in 9 points, while Lauren Klare hit some huge shots to keep Mercyhurst in the game, totaling 12 points on the night.
Up Next:
The Lakers are back in action tomorrow, November 11th, at 2:00 PM. Mercyhurst will stay in West Virginia and play their next game against Wheeling University before coming home to face Lake Erie College on Wednesday, November 15th.
