The women’s basketball team hosted the Fairleigh Dickinson University Knights (FDU) but fell short 69-55 to the undefeated NEC leaders. The Chargers showed plenty of energy and heart against the league’s top squad, but FDU’s hot long range shooting put the game just out of reach.
FDU wasted no time finding its rhythm, as Madlena Gerke knocked down back-to-back three-point shots to spark an early Knights lead. The Chargers shook that off quickly, with Teaira Kelley slicing to the rim and Lindsay Hogan knocking down a jumper to tie the game at 8-8 in the first quarter. Aniya McDonald-Perry kept the momentum alive, knocking down free throws to keep the score even.
As the Chargers seemed poised to make this a real home crowd thriller FDU’s firepower took over. The Knights scored 13 three-pointers, many of them in waves that kept knocking New Haven back a few steps before they could regroup. Kailee McDonald hit multiple three-point shots helping turn what had been a tight back-and-forth into a more comfortable lead by halftime.
Although the score wasn’t a blow-out by the break, New Haven trailed 30-22 at halftime. FDU outpaced the Chargers 24-16 in the third quarter, stretching its advantage as New Haven fought to stay in striking distance.
Still, it wasn’t all chalk for the Chargers. While Jasmine McKay led New Haven in scoring with 14 points, including three three-point shots, Kelley turned in a strong all-around effort finishing with 13 points and a team-high 10 rebounds. McDonald-Perry added 11 points and seven rebounds, continuing her streak of strong play on the boards and Lindsay Hogan chipped in another 11 points.
One of the more encouraging themes for the Chargers was their conversion of turnovers into easy chances. New Haven forced 13 FDU miscues and turned those into 14 points. The Chargers generated tough looks inside the paint, where they scored 20 points. FDU stayed in control in the fourth quarter to close out the win, but New Haven’s fight never wavered.
After the loss, the women’s basketball team has an overall record of 7-19 and 5-10 in conference play. The Chargers host the Wagner College Seahawks at The Hazell Center on Thursday night in another NEC test. Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. For more information, visit NewHavenChargers.com.
