WBB: Second-Half Push Lifts Wildcats Past Mustangs

Morrisville, N.Y. - The SUNY Poly women's basketball team earned a 52–48 win over the SUNY Morrisville Mustangs on Saturday afternoon, using a strong second-half effort and timely free throws late to secure the road victory in their final game before Empire 8 conference play. 

HOW IT HAPPENED: 

SUNY Poly got off to a good start as Alysa Jackson hit a three-pointer on the opening possession. Kayla Wilson added a basket in the paint, and Jackson later connected on another three to keep the Wildcats in front early. Morrisville responded with steady outside shooting and closed the quarter with a late basket to take a 15–11 lead after one.

In the second quarter, Morrisville built momentum with transition baskets and a pair of three-pointers to stretch the lead. SUNY Poly answered with inside scoring from Alivia Turk and a free throw from Kirsten Lighthall. Jackson added a fastbreak layup following a steal, and Kiana Rojas knocked down a jumper, but Morrisville maintained a 32–22 advantage at halftime.

The Wildcats opened the third quarter by cutting into the deficit. Turk scored early in the paint, and Jackson added a free throw before knocking down a three-pointer to bring SUNY Poly within two. Sanaa Lee contributed on both ends, tying the game with a jumper midway through the quarter. Isabella Kroll hit a three late in the quarter, and Jackson followed with a jumper as SUNY Poly took a 37–34 lead, though Morrisville tied the game before the end of the quarter.

The fourth quarter remained close throughout. Morrisville briefly pulled ahead, but SUNY Poly answered with baskets from Jackson and Lee. Turk connected on a three-pointer to put the Wildcats back in front, and Jackson made two free throws to extend the lead. Kroll added a late three, and SUNY Poly closed out the game at the free-throw line to hold on for the 52–48 win.