Hard-Fought Battle: Lehigh Falls to Army, 78-69
On February 24, the Lehigh women’s basketball team faced a challenging opponent in Army during a tightly contested game that ultimately ended in a 78-69 defeat. Despite the loss, the Mountain Hawks showcased resilience and skill, setting the stage for critical upcoming games in the Patriot League Tournament.
Strong Start for the Hawks
In an impressive first half, the Mountain Hawks established an early 17-point lead, driven by exceptional shooting performance that saw them hit 65.2% of their shots from the field. The team’s offensive strategy, characterized by crisp execution of set plays, gave them an edge that left fans optimistic about the game. Fresh off a run of tough matches, Lehigh entered this contest looking to regain its momentum and aimed to exploit Army’s vulnerabilities.
Army’s Unyielding Second Half
However, the second half played out differently for the Mountain Hawks. Army, one of the standout teams in the Patriot League, came out with renewed vigor. They not only outscored Lehigh 48-22 in this period but also showcased a deadly three-point shooting streak, converting 7 of their 12 attempts from beyond the arc. This shift in momentum exemplified the ups and downs that characterize college basketball, where the tide can change rapidly.
Key Performers
Lehigh’s sophomore forward Kerry Kinek led the charge for the Hawks, racking up 18 points throughout the game. Her performance kept Lehigh in contention, highlighting her crucial role on the team. Moreover, junior guard Sarah Williams had a stellar night, contributing 15 points with a perfect 4-4 from three-point territory. Their efforts, however, weren’t enough to combat Army’s formidable output.
On the other side of the court, Army’s Kelsey Minato emerged as a standout player, pouring in an impressive 31 points to lead all scorers. Her offensive prowess was a significant factor in her team’s victory, underscoring the importance of star players in high-pressure situations.
Reflections on the Game
After the match, senior forward Lindsay Hoskins reflected on the team’s second-half struggles, noting, “We started to play not to lose instead of playing to win. We lost the aggression that we came out with in the first half.” This self-awareness points to a key strategic aspect in sports—the importance of maintaining focus and momentum throughout the game.
Junior guard/forward Katie O’Reilly echoed Hoskins’ sentiments, attributing their strong start to “crisp execution of offensive sets and tenacious defense.” Yet, she recognized that the energy waned post-halftime, making it difficult for the team to respond effectively to Army’s runs.
A Lesson Learned
Despite the disappointment of the loss, the Mountain Hawks walked away with valuable insights. As Hoskins articulated, “I think we all learned that we are a talented team,” emphasizing the importance of recognizing their potential. The game taught them that no lead is secure until the final buzzer sounds, serving as a critical lesson as they move forward in their season.
Looking Ahead to the Patriot League Tournament
With the Patriot League Tournament looming just around the corner, the Hawks are keen on building on the lessons learned from their matchup against Army. Currently positioned at No. 8 in the league, Lehigh faces an uphill battle, requiring crucial victories in their remaining games to secure a favorable playoff position. Their immediate goal is clear: to reclaim their momentum and demonstrate their capability when it matters most.
O’Reilly noted that the upcoming games are crucial not just for standings but also for boosting team morale. She emphasized, “These last two games are important for team morale and also to show the league our true potential.” This perspective fosters a sense of urgency and optimism as they approach their final regular-season matchups.
The Mountain Hawks are determined to finish strong, hoping to end their regular season with a surge of confidence and rejuvenated focus. “We hope to win our final two games,” Hoskins stated, expressing a collective belief among the team that if they can play hard for four complete halves, they might surprise many in the upcoming tournament.
Upcoming Challenge: Bucknell
The next test for Lehigh comes in the form of Bucknell University, set to visit Stabler Arena on Wednesday. A win in this matchup would not only secure a much-desired home game in the first round of the Patriot League Tournament but also serve as a crucial morale booster as they march into postseason play.
As the Mountain Hawks gear up for this pivotal encounter, the excitement and tension are palpable. Each game is not just a chance to earn a victory but a step toward proving their mettle as they chase their championship aspirations.