ERIE, Pa. — The Mercyhurst women's basketball team's six game win streak came to an end against Chicago State, falling 68-64 in a closely contested matchup at the Mercyhurst Athletic Center on Saturday.
 
The game began with the Lakers establishing an early advantage, initiated by Lena Walz's three-pointer at 9:41, assisted by Jenna Van Schaik. This was followed by Van Schaik's layup, pushing the score to 5–0.
 
The Lakers maintained momentum with strong defensive plays, including Erica Hall's steal at 9:22, leading to consistent scoring inside the paint. Despite Chicago State's attempts to close the gap, Mercyhurst's Sofia Wilson delivered key layups, ensuring their lead. At the end of the first quarter, the Lakers led 17–13.
 
In the second quarter, Mercyhurst (7-14, 7-3 NEC) made key plays to maintain a competitive edge. Van Schaik's 3-pointer at 7:00 tied the game, providing momentum for the Green and Blue. Wilson's layup at 6:35, assisted by Van Schaik, helped Mercyhurst regain the lead.
 
Despite a back-and-forth battle with several lead changes, Van Schaik's layup at 0:51 tied the score at 32. Wilson then hit a crucial free throw with 23 seconds left, giving the Lakers a slight edge. The half ended with Mercyhurst trailing Chicago State 33-32.
 
Mercyhurst started the third quarter by extending their lead with a layup from Van Schaik at 9:15, assisted by Hall. A key moment came when Walz hit a 3-pointer at 8:19, pushing the home team's advantage to 38–32.
 
Despite their efforts, the Lakers faced a challenge as Chicago State tied the game at 45 with 2:01 left following a fast-break layup by Kyara Champagne. In the final minute, Mercyhurst's comeback attempt with a layup by Walz cut the deficit to one, but a late 3-pointer from Tania Allen sealed the quarter for Chicago State. The third quarter ended with the Green and Blue trailing 51–47.
 
The fourth quarter began with a burst from Mercyhurst as Cici Hernandez scored a layup assisted by Wilson at 9:52, giving them a slight edge. Chicago State quickly responded with a three-pointer from Chloe Sisco, but Hernandez countered with a layup and free throw, keeping the Lakers in contention. As the quarter progressed, a three-pointer by Lauryn Stover at 7:18, assisted by Van Schaik, momentarily gave Mercyhurst the lead.
 
Chicago State, however, managed to regain control with a series of baskets, including a layup by Champagne at 3:47. Despite a three-pointer from Wilson at 3:28, assisted by Hernandez, Chicago State held on. A late layup by Hernandez at 0:40 brought the Lakers close, but Chicago State maintained their lead with free throws from Keona McGee in the final seconds. The game ended with Chicago State winning 68–64, despite both teams scoring 17 points in the quarter.
 
The Lakers are back in action Thursday at Saint Francis.