Albany, N.Y. – The SUNY Poly women's basketball team battled through four tightly contested quarters but ultimately fell to the Russell Sage College Gators, 59–55. The Wildcats are now 3-9 on the season. 

HOW IT HAPPENED:

The opening quarter was defined by defensive intensity and early nerves from both sides. SUNY Poly forced multiple turnovers and converted at the free-throw line, with Alysa Jackson scoring early points off fastbreak opportunities. Bryanna Lucas provided a spark in transition, finishing inside to give the Wildcats momentum midway through the frame. Isabella Kroll added a jumper late in the quarter as SUNY Poly closed on a run, taking a 15–9 lead after one behind strong perimeter defense and active hands.

In the second quarter, Sage responded with improved ball movement and perimeter shooting to climb back into the game. SUNY Poly continued to attack inside, getting baskets from Jackson and Lucas, while Kroll knocked down timely three-pointers to maintain the advantage. Sage surged late in the half, capitalizing on fastbreak chances and converting from deep. A last-second jumper by Sage tied the game at 29–29 heading into halftime.

The third quarter featured multiple lead changes as both teams traded baskets. Alivia Turk opened the scoring with a three-pointer, and SUNY Poly stayed aggressive defensively, highlighted by blocks from Sanaa Lee and Jackson. Jackson continued to finish at the rim, while Kroll connected on a jumper to knot the score again late in the period. Lee capped the quarter by tipping in a basket inside, sending the teams into the final period tied at 42–42.

Sage opened the fourth quarter with a quick push in transition, but SUNY Poly answered with a clutch three-pointer from Kroll to briefly regain the lead. The Wildcats stayed within striking distance behind strong efforts from Jackson and Lucas in the paint, while Turk converted key free throws down the stretch. In the final minute, SUNY Poly closed to within two after Jackson hit a pair from the line and Turk finished inside, but Sage responded by knocking down crucial free throws in the closing seconds to secure the 59–55 victory.