Clarion, PA- Having clinched a PSAC playoff berth, the Mercyhurst Women's Basketball team set out to secure two more regular season victories to help their chances of hosting a first-round matchup. The Lakers were able to do just that, knocking off the Eagles of Clarion, 83-63. Mercyhurst is now 17-10 overall and 13-8 in conference play.
How it Happened:
As the game began, the two teams went back and forth successfully executing offensive actions. With the game tied 9-9 midway through the first quarter, the Lakers benefited from a 12-3 run thanks to two Bailey Kuhns free throws, paired with two jumpers from Danielle Grim and three pointers from Allyson Ross and Julia Buchman. Buchman and Ross converted once again from beyond the arc later in the quarter to help Mercyhurst build a 21-13 advantage.
Julia Buchman remained hot as the second quarter began, hitting her third three of the half. Bailey Kuhns and Maria McConnell pitched in on the offensive effort to help the Lakers build a comfortable lead heading into halftime, 38-30.
Julia Buchman led all Laker scorers in the first half with 11 points. Bailey Kuhns chipped in with 10 points, while Danielle Grim contributed 4 points and 5 rebounds.
Julia Buchman didn't cool off in the locker room, as she hit the ground running to start the 3rd. Hitting her 4th three of the game, Buchman also converted two free throws and a layup to help Mercyhurst build a cushion. Jenna Van Schaik, Sophia Kelly, and Kate Deutsch also found the bottom of the net in the third, as the Laker lead grew 15.
Mercyhurst didn't leave any doubt in the fourth as Buchman, Ava Waid, and Grace Clary poured it on to put the game out of reach. Benefiting from 66% shooting in the 3rd quarter, the Lakers shot over 50% from the field in the fourth quarter as well to earn a convincing win on the road.
Highlights:
Julia Buchman was unconscious tonight, going 7-9 from the field, which included 5 three-pointers. Buchman ended the night with 23 points.
Bailey Kuhns and Allyson Ross also finished in double digits for the victors, with 14 and 10 points respectively.
Up Next:
The Lakers will finish out the regular season on Saturday, March 2nd, as they play host to Slippery Rock University. The regular season finale will serve as the team's senior day and will begin at 1:00 PM.
