WBB Falls Behind Early, Can't Catch Up at NEC

HENNIKER, N.H. – Despite a career-high 31 points from Amina Wiley, the Mitchell College women's basketball team suffered an 80-73 setback against New England College on Saturday afternoon at Bridges Gym.

Mitchell fell behind by double digits in the first quarter and spent the rest of the game trying to claw its way back. Wiley, who shot 12-for-27 from the field and grabbed a game-high 14 rebounds, led the charge with 18 second-half points.

Dede Stevenson added 13 points and six assists for the Mariners, who dropped to 8-12 overall (0-3 NECC). Yasmine Santos also chipped in a double-double of 11 points and 12 boards.

Ericka Pratt led the Pilgrims (15-6 overall, 4-1 NECC) with 23 points, eight rebounds and three steals. Kayla Goldring finished with 13 points and 12 rebounds while Brianna Pierreval contributed 10 points and eight caroms.

In the opening quarter, NEC took control behind an 11-1 run over a 2:35 stretch that yielded a 20-8 advantage. The Pilgrims led 27-16 by the end of the period thanks to seven points from Pierreval. 

Sierra Gamble came off the bench to pick up the scoring for the Pilgrims in the second quarter. She netted all eight of her points in the period, staking NEC to a 42-33 lead at the break.    

Pratt paced the Pilgrims with 11 points in the third quarter as the lead grew to 19. Early in the fourth, a three-pointer by Pratt gave NEC its largest advantage at 70-48.

Mitchell responded with a 12-0 run to get back within striking distance, and in the final minute the Mariners got as close as six. However, the Pilgrims held off the late charge and secured the win from the free throw line.

Mitchell will next play at Lesley University on Monday, February 14 at 7 p.m.