HACKENSACK, N.J. — The Mercyhurst women's basketball team (8-15, 8-4 NEC) fell to Fairleigh Dickinson University (21-4, 12-0 NEC), 84-64, at Bogota Savings Bank Center. The Lakers' 11 three-pointers were not enough to overcome FDU's 50-20 rebounding advantage.

The first quarter began with the Lakers trading baskets with FDU, as Erica Hall and Lena Walz made key defensive plays with steals early on. The team showed effectiveness in the paint, with Jenna Van Schaik scoring multiple layups to keep the team within reach. Despite their efforts, they struggled to convert on outside shots, missing all attempts from beyond the arc. 

FDU capitalized on second-chance points, maintaining their edge by taking advantage of offensive rebounds. As the quarter progressed, the Lakers faced challenges in closing the gap due to FDU's efficient shooting and ball movement, which resulted in a series of unanswered baskets. The quarter concluded with the Green and Blue trailing 23-12.

The Lakers opened the second quarter with a strong defensive effort, converting steals into scoring opportunities. Cici Hernandez sparked the offense with a three-pointer at 7:57, followed by a layup that cut into the lead. Van Schaik's defensive rebound and subsequent layup continued to close the gap, bringing the score to 19–30 midway through the quarter.

Despite the Knights' scoring efforts from the free throw line and the paint, the Green and Blue maintained pressure. Hernandez hit another three-pointer at 4:25, keeping the visitors competitive. The quarter concluded with Van Schaik sinking two free throws, narrowing the deficit to 25–39 by halftime.

The third quarter started with a significant scoring drive from the Lakers, as Sofia Wilson and Hernandez led the charge with a combination of layups and three-point shooting. Hernandez connected on two three-pointers with assists from Van Schaik, narrowing the gap and maintaining offensive momentum.

Despite these efforts, FDU responded with efficient shooting, converting 10 of 14 attempts and extending their lead. The Lakers' defense struggled to contain Leah Crosby, who contributed key points in the paint. Hall's defensive rebound and layup in the final minutes provided a spark, but the Green and Blue ended the quarter trailing 61-40.

The Lakers began the fourth quarter with Wilson contributing a layup and a 3-pointer, narrowing the gap slightly against FDU. However, FDU capitalized on offensive rebounds, scoring consistently in the paint to maintain their lead.

Despite the Green and Blue's efforts, including a series of 3-pointers from Walz, Alena Fusetti, and Van Schaik, FDU's balanced attack, reinforced by second-chance points, kept their advantage intact. The quarter closed with FDU winning by a single point, leading to a final score of 84-64 in favor of the Knights.

Van Schaik posted 20 points, adding six assists and six rebounds to her performance. Hernandez matched her with 20 points, converting six 3-pointers on 12 attempts. Wilson contributed 14 points, making 5 of 10 shots from the field. Quinn Borroni recorded two steals, helping to bolster the defensive effort.

The Lakers hold a record of 8-15 overall and 8-4 in NEC play. FDU is 21-4 on the season and 12-0 in NEC competition.

Mercyhurst will play their next game Saturday, February 14, at 1:00 p.m. in their Play for Kay game.