Photos by Michael Lipscomb
By Abrielle Tutino
The Susquehanna women’s basketball battled down to the final possession, but Catholic University edged the River Hawks 65 to 61 in a Landmark Conference matchup on Tuesday night.
The game featured multiple lead changes and remained close throughout, with neither team able to create separation. Susquehanna trailed by one at halftime and stayed within striking distance all the way to the final minute, even when the score was within two.
Junior guard Sydney Weyant helped spark the River Hawks before the break, knocking down a key 3-pointer as Susquehanna took advantage of Catholic’s defensive focus in the paint.
“Scouting Catholic all week, we knew that they were going to double and triple our posts hard, so the kickouts would be open,” Weyant said. “Knowing the collapse was coming, I knew our posts would be able to find the open shooter, and I was able to knock it down, giving us some momentum going into the half.”
Catholic gained a slight edge midway through the third quarter, but Susquehanna responded with defensive stops and efficient offensive possessions to stay within reach.
Senior forward Carly George played an important role inside, focusing on physicality and effort plays to stay engaged on both ends of the floor.
“I try to focus on doing the little things first, like attacking the rim, getting to the free throw line, getting a rebound, or making a strong defensive play,” George said. “Once I see the ball go in or feel that physicality, it settles me in and helps build confidence right away.”
The fourth quarter tested both teams, as every possession became critical. Despite the pressure, the River Hawks remained composed and connected on the floor.
Julia Roth delivered several key baskets late to keep Susquehanna within two in the closing moments, getting the score as close as 64 to 62 after two late free throws.
Roth would then commit an intentional foul on Catholic, forcing the Cardinals to the line for only one-shot. Catholic guard Amelia Kennedy stepped up to sink the late free throw and grow the Cardinals leads to three.
Catholic would remain scrappy on the ensuing possession, forcing a River Hawks turnover with a chance to tie the game. The Cardinals held on to win 66 to 62.
Roth finished as the games leading scorer with 16 points, while also matching with 16 rebounds. Roth also matched her play on the defensive end with six steals and two blocks.
Although the result did not fall in Susquehanna’s favor, the River Hawks continued to show growth and chemistry in Landmark play. Weyant emphasized the group’s confidence and trust moving forward.
“Obviously, we wanted a different outcome, but our chemistry this year is something we haven’t seen before,” Weyant said. “In games like this, we all band together and trust each other, which gives us confidence in close games.”
The River Hawks will look to redeem their loss on Saturday, Jan. 17 against Drew University at Madison, New Jersey.