Utica, NY – The Utica College women's basketball team lost a close game to Hartwick, 73-71. The loss pushes UC's record to 5-7 overall and 1-2 against Empire 8 opponents.
 
Two early 3-point shots helped the Pioneers earn an early 8-2 lead, just 2:38 into the game. However, Hartwick would put a 9-4 run together to tie the game up at 13-13 with about four minutes left in the first. The team's traded baskets, resulting in a 21-21 tie heading into the second quarter. The contest remained close, as the score read 29-29, with just two minutes until halftime. The Hawks closed out the first half strong, securing a five-point lead at the midgame break.
 
Ashelyne Babb (Lynn, MA/Winthrop) sparked a 10-0 run in the opening 2:12 of the second half, to give Utica a 41-36 lead. The team's went back and forth the remainder of the period, as UC held a 2-point lead going into the final quarter. Hartwick went on an 11-0 run in the span of 3:50, as the team took a 63-57 lead with 5:10 left in the game. The Pioneers made some big plays down the stretch on offense to give them a chance, but the Hawks made just enough free throws to walk away with the 2-point victory.
 
Babb was the game's high scorer, finishing with 24 points (6-for-9 3-pt) and 5 assists. Ashley Mayo (Bronx, NY/Nanuet) added 16 points, while Alaina Tripp (Clyde, NY/Clyde-Savannah) racked up nine points, seven rebounds, and four steals. Nicolette Conkin (Los Altos, CA/Homestead) recorded five assists, six boards, and two steals off the bench.
 
Carly Johnson led the way for Hartwick, tallying 23 points and eight rebounds in the game. Mary Schoenherr contributed 13 points, five assists, and five rebounds in the win. Alexa DuBois and Kelly Pine both poured in 12 points for the Hawks in the contest.
 
The Pioneers are back at home again on Saturday, as they play host to Empire 8 opponent Elmira. The game is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.