NORTH EAST, Pa. - Looking to get back in the win column on the road, the Jamestown Community College women's basketball team fell to Mercyhurst North East, 78-68.
The Jayhawks (9-14, 2-5 WNYAC) were led offensively by Gabby Iuculano with 22 points with Linnea Jimerson adding 11 points. Jimerson was also active on the glass, grabbing nine rebounds (2 offense, 7 defense). Courtney Hemminger also finished with nine rebounds (3 offense, 6 defense) while Abi Lisciandro grabbing eight rebounds (3 offense, 5 defense) of her own.
With each team matching each other in the first six minutes of the game, Iuculano helped create some separation by cashing in a three-pointer to go up 12-10. JCC continued to build their lead with a three-pointer and a pair of free throws from Iuculano which capped off an 11-0 run. After a quick three-point spurt by the Saints, JCC closed out the quarter on a 7-2 run to lead 24-15.
In the second quarter, Mercyhurst North East started to find their offense. Slowly chipping away at the Jayhawks' lead, the Saints got themselves back in the game with Cerenity Chambers hitting a three-pointer to take the lead. The Saints got another three-pointer to take a 34-30 lead into the half. In the frame, the Jayhawks were outscored 19-6.
The team kept on battling into the third quarter, both scoring 20 points. The Saints grew their led to seven halfway through the period, going up 49-42. JCC answered with baskets from Katelyn Fardink, Marisa Schuppenhauer and Jimerson to cut the deficit to one point.
Heading into the final frame, Mercyhurst North East created more separation to secure the victory. Jamestwon did cut the lead to six at one point but the Saints grew their lead to double digits.
On the day, the Jayhawks went 24-for-79 (30.4 percent) from the floor while the Saints went 28-for-69 (40.6 percent). The Saints took advantage of their second chance points, scoring 24 points while JCC scored eight. The Jayhawks did have the advantage in points off turnovers, scoring 17 points to the Saints' 12 points.
The Jayhawks will be back in action next Saturday as they host Genesee Community College at 1 p.m. on Sophomore Day.