STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. (11/8/24) - The Franklin Pierce women's basketball team opened up their season on the road at the Conference Challenge hosted by the College of Staten Island. The Ravens fell to the hosts of the tournament, 72-47. 

Score: FPU 47, CSI 72 
Records: FPU 0-1 (0-0 NE10), CSI 1-0 (0-0 ECC)  
Location: Sports & Recreation Center, Staten Island, N.Y. 
Date: Friday, November 8, 2024 

HOW IT HAPPENED:  

• The first quarter saw a mix of early scoring as both teams tried to find their rhythm. Franklin Pierce struck first with two consecutive jump shots by Collette Mulderig (Scranton, Pa.), building an initial 4-0 lead. Staten Island would respond with a three-pointer. Despite some missed opportunities and turnovers, Franklin Pierce managed to maintain a slight lead midway through. 

• As the quarter progressed, Staten Island began to capitalize on Franklin Pierce's turnovers, outscoring them with a series of successful layups and a three-pointer that shifted the momentum. Franklin Pierce struggled to maintain their early lead, falling behind 7-14 after a series of missed shots and turnovers. However, a late layup by Geanna Bryant (Boston, Mass.) and a jump shot by Sara Macary (Naugatuck, Conn.) cut into the deficit, bringing the score to 11-14 by the end of the quarter. 

• In the second quarter, despite a strong effort from Franklin Pierce, Staten Island's Amber Abusbeih and Alarcon capitalized on Franklin Pierce turnovers to widen their lead. Franklin Pierce faced difficulties in maintaining consistent scoring, allowing Staten Island to finish the quarter with an advantage, leading into halftime with growing confidence and a solid point margin. 

• Staten Island further asserted their control in the third quarter. Alarcon and Abusbeih executed well-coordinated plays, with Alarcon hitting key shots and drawing fouls to keep Staten Island's momentum alive. Franklin Pierce fought back with points from Brand and Heitmann, but turnovers continued to impact their scoring rhythm. Staten Island extended their lead by capitalizing on Franklin Pierce's mistakes and increased their defensive pressure, making it difficult for Franklin Pierce to close the gap. 

• The fourth quarter saw Staten Island holding a firm lead, as they continued to capitalize on Franklin Pierce's turnovers and fouls. Alarcon and Quirolo played crucial roles with effective scoring and assists, allowing Staten Island to expand their lead even further. Franklin Pierce managed some key rebounds and points from players like Demi Albon (Craigieburn, Austrailia) and Janessa Gonzalez (Meridan, Conn.), but it was not enough to bridge the deficit. Staten Island closed the game with a decisive 72-47 victory. 

BREAKING DOWN THE NUMBERS:  

• The Ravens shot 35.2% from the field (19 of 54). CSI shot 43.5% from the field (27 of 62).  

• Mulderig lead the team with 17 points and 9 rebounds.  

UP NEXT FOR THE RAVENS: The Ravens return to action tomorrow for the second day of the Conference Challenge. They will play the District of Columbia at 12 PM.