PLATTSBURGH, NY - The Utica University women's basketball team dropped game one of the Holiday Inn Express Cardinal Classic, hosted by Plattsburgh State, to SUNY Potsdam by a score of 55-50 on Friday evening.
Leading the way for the Pioneers was Vanessa Hall (Whitesville, NY/Whitesville Central), who recorded just under half of the team's 50 total points with 24 (10-18 FG, 1-2 3PT, 3-4 FT). Hall added five total boards, three assists, and two blocks on the night. Emma Simmons (Unadilla, NY/Sidney Central) put together a great defensive outing for the Pioneers, recording 10 total rebounds with eight of those coming on defense, dishing out four assists, and nabbed a team high five steals.
The opening frame would see Potsdam establish an early lead, outscoring Utica 17-8 in the first quarter by taking advantage of Utica turnovers and pushing the pace on fast breaks. Utica started to rally in the second quarter, fueled by Hall's scoring and Simmons' defense. Hall made several key baskets to bring Utica within five points by halftime, with the score at 29-24.
The third quarter saw back-and-forth action, as Utica closed the gap further with Hall's consistent shooting and a strong defensive effort from McKenzie Simmons (Red Hook, NY/Red Hook), who made pivotal steals and rebounds. However, Potsdam managed to maintain a slight edge, responding to each Utica basket with efficient inside scoring and second-chance points from offensive rebounds.
In the fourth quarter, Utica came within three points after Hall nailed a three-pointer with under two minutes to go. Despite this late-game push, Potsdam's defense held strong, forcing Utica into difficult shots and limiting their offensive opportunities down the stretch. A few missed free throws and turnovers prevented Utica from taking the lead, and Potsdam closed out the game at the line to secure the five-point victory.
Utica (0-2, 0-0 Empire 8) returns to action tomorrow, Saturday November 16 as the team takes on Plattsburgh State. Tip off from Plattsburgh, NY is set for 3pm.
