BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The Cedar Crest College basketball team lost to Moravian University, 79-39, in the Steel Club Classic on Monday afternoon at Johnston Hall.

The Falcons opened the first quarter with a strong offensive effort, highlighted by early three-pointers from first-year Gabrielle Moore (Lancaster, Pa./Conestoga Valley) and sophomore Ella Bincarosky (Coopersburg, Pa./Bethlehem Catholic). Defensive plays such as Bincarosky's steal at 7:58 helped maintain momentum, while Moore contributed with a layup to keep the score close. Despite their efforts, Cedar Crest faced a challenge as the Greyhounds capitalized on points in the paint, leading to several lead changes.

As the quarter progressed, the Falcons' offense, powered by assists from sophomore Ginger Kerdock (Annapolis, Md./Broadneck), managed to stay competitive. A late jumper by Kerdock at 0:55 briefly regained the lead for Cedar Crest. However, Moravian finished the quarter strong with a triple and a layup in the final seconds, closing the quarter with a 20–16 advantage over the Falcons.

The second stanza began with the Greyhounds extending their lead through a series of quick scores in the paint, capitalizing on turnovers. Cedar Crest responded with junior Samora Merchant's (Danbury, Conn./Henry Abbott Technical) layup and free throw, followed by a three-pointer from Kerdock, narrowing the gap slightly. Despite the efforts, the Moravian defensive pressure and fast-break points allowed them to maintain control.
The Falcons' defense showed resilience with two blocks from Merchant, and a late layup by junior Analyse Rios (Orlando, Fla./Timber Creek) added to the scoring efforts. However, the Greyhounds' consistent scoring kept them ahead. The quarter closed with Moravian leading 37–26.

Cedar Crest faced a challenging third quarter against the Greyhounds, marked by turnovers and defensive pressure. Despite an early defensive effort with four steals, the Falcons struggled offensively, converting only three baskets out of 11 attempts. Merchant contributed with two free throws at 6:14, and Rios added a jumper at 5:55, but Cedar Crest committed 11 turnovers, limiting scoring opportunities.

Moravian capitalized on the Falcons' miscues, scoring 12 points in the paint and converting seven points off turnovers. Cedar Crest's defense remained active, with Bincarosky and Moore each securing key steals, but Moravian's efficient shooting, including two three-pointers, extended their lead. The quarter concluded with the Greyhounds ahead 60–35, as the Falcons aimed to regroup for the final quarter.

The Falcons faced a challenging fourth quarter, struggling to find offensive rhythm against Moravian's strong defensive pressure. Cedar Crest managed only two field goals, with Bincarosky converting a layup assisted by Rios and junior Megan Perrine (Mount Vision, N.Y./Gilbertsville-Mount Upton) hitting a jumper late in the game. Despite first-year Brooke Leonardi's (Stewartsville, N.J./Phillipsburg) block and first-year Hailey Wolbeck's (Hemet, Calif./Western Center Academy) defensive rebounds, the Falcons were unable to capitalize on opportunities due to turnovers.

Moravian took advantage of the Cedar Crest turnovers, scoring nine points off turnovers and dominating fast breaks with ten points. Sophomore Kate Donaldson (Kinnelon, N.J.) and first-year Abby Hayes (Wilmington, Del.) led Moravian with consistent scoring in the paint, contributing to a 19-point quarter for the home team. Cedar Crest ended the game trailing 79-39.

Merchant led the Falcons with nine points and contributed defensively with three blocks and two steals. Bincarosky added eight points, including two three-pointers, and recorded five rebounds. Kerdock posted five points and distributed three assists while collecting two steals. Wolbeck gathered six rebounds and added a block and a steal.

Junior Grace Steffen (Hawley, Pa.) led the Greyhounds with 13 points, shooting a perfect 5-for-5 from the field and contributing three blocks. Sophomore Ellie Wallbillich (Pen Argyl, Pa.) added 11 points, making four of her seven attempts and hitting three free throws. Hayes was active defensively, securing three steals while also scoring seven points. Senior Juliana Vassallo (River Vale, N.J.) matched Hayes with three steals and contributed five points of her own. Sophomore Megan Elias (Easton, Pa.) chipped in with four points and two steals, playing a crucial role in maintaining defensive pressure.

Cedar Crest (5-5 overall) will face the University of Mary Washington in the consolation game of the Steel Club Classic on Tuesday, December 30 at 11:00 a.m.