ELMIRA, NY - The Utica University women's basketball team fell in an Empire 8 Conference matchup to the Elmira College Soaring Eagles on Friday evening by a score of 61-50.

Senior Guard McKenzie Simmons (Red Hook, NY/Red Hook) put together a strong outing, registering 14 points and nine rebounds. Simmons went 6-9 from the free-throw line while also recording three steals. Hayleigh Lagase (Wallingford, CT/Mark T. Sheehan) added 14 points on 5-10 shooting while grabbing six rebounds. Forward Vanessa Hall (Whitesville, NY/Whitesville Central) contributed 10 points and two assists. Carly Atty (Tribes Hill, NY/Fonda-Fultonville) was active under the basket, recording seven rebounds. 

The game began with a defensive battle, as both teams struggled to find rhythm in the first quarter. Utica jumped ahead 3-0 thanks to an early three-pointer from Lagase, but Elmira responded with a layup from Winston. The Pioneers held a slight 10-9 advantage after the first quarter, capitalizing on second-chance points and fast-break opportunities.

Elmira gained momentum in the second quarter, tightening their defense and forcing several Pioneer turnovers. Utica managed only five points in the period, as Dixon and Bogota fueled a 10-5 run for the Soaring Eagles, sending Elmira into halftime with a 19-15 lead.

Coming out of the break, Utica fought back in the third quarter, with Simmons knocking down a key layup to give the Pioneers a 22-19 edge early in the period. Lagase followed up with a mid-range jumper to extend the lead. However, Elmira responded with a run of their own, powered by Dixon's presence in the paint and a pair of fast-break layups from Bogota. By the end of the third, Elmira had reclaimed a 35-27 lead.

The fourth quarter saw Utica attempting to claw their way back into the game. Hall was aggressive, drawing multiple fouls and converting free throws to keep the Pioneers within striking distance. However, Elmira's defensive pressure led to crucial turnovers, allowing them to pull away. With five minutes remaining, the Soaring Eagles built a 54-42 lead after Dixon connected on back-to-back layups. Despite Utica's resilience and solid free-throw shooting, Elmira closed the game strong, securing a 61-50 victory.

Utica returns to action tomorrow, Saturday, February 15 as the team takes on the Keuka College Wolves. Tip off from Keuka Park, NY is set for 1pm.