Erie, PA- Coming off a tough week playing two of the top teams in the PSAC West, the Mercyhurst Women's Basketball team now prepares for a three-game week. Entering the week, the Lakers post an overall record of 12-6 and a conference record of 8-4. On Monday, January 29th, Mercyhurst will play host to Clarion University before hitting the road for away games at Slippery Rock University (Jan 31) and Pitt Johnstown (Feb 3).  

Laker Leaders 

Mercyhurst continues to rely heavily upon Bailey Kuhns and Danielle Grim. The inside out attack provides balance to the Lakers on both ends of the floor. Kuhns leads the team offensively, scoring 14.9 points a game. Kuhns also ranks in the top three on the team in rebounding, steals, and blocks. Danielle Grim provides versatility that is tough to match. Averaging a near double double, the Junior guard leads the team in rebounds, assists, blocks, steals, and minutes played.  

Scouting Clarion 

Coming off a 5-22 season in 2022-23, the Golden Eagles have yet to win a game so far this year, posting an 0-18 record. Clarion is currently getting outscored by their opponents by an average of 19 points. The Golden Eagles also shoot just 36% from the field. They will need to shoot the lights out to have a chance against a solid defensive team in the Lakers.  

Scouting Slippery Rock 

Slippery Rock is also struggling as they now enter the bulk of their season. At the time of publishing, the Rock is 2-12 on the year, with their lone wins coming in conference against Clarion and Shippensburg. Led by Regan Atkins, who averages 15 points per game, Slippery Rock averages just 52 points per matchup. The Rock has lost by double digits in 12 of their 14 games.  

Scouting UPJ 

This will mark the second meeting between the two teams. Mercyhurst won the first matchup on the road by a score of 61-53. The Panthers have won 3 of 5 games since their last meeting and are led by two prolific scorers in Cassidy Crawford (16.6 ppg) and Peyton Alazaus (14.4 ppg). The second meeting through the West becomes critical for every team, and it seems that this will be crucial for both squads.  

Up Next: 

After the packed week, the Lakers will be back in action on Wednesday, February 7th as they welcome IUP to Erie, PA for a 5:30 tip-off.