BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The Cedar Crest College basketball team was defeated by the University of Mary Washington, 64-50, on Tuesday at Johnston Hall in the consolation game of the Steel Club Classic at Moravian University.

Cedar Crest opened the first quarter with effective perimeter shooting, highlighted by first-year Gabrielle Moore's (Lancaster, Pa./Conestoga Valley) early three-pointer, setting an early competitive tone. Despite turnovers, the Falcons balanced their effort with strong defensive rebounds, totaling eight in the quarter. The team maintained momentum with a crucial three-pointer by first-year Brooke Leonardi (Stewartsville, N.J./Phillipsburg), which helped them keep pace with the Eagles. The quarter concluded with Cedar Crest tying the game at 13–13, as Moore hit another key three-pointer with just 12 seconds remaining. The team's defensive stops and timely scoring ensured a level playing field going into the second quarter.

The Falcons began the second stanza with a notable sequence as Leonardi connected on  a fast-break triple, reducing the deficit to two points. Cedar Crest capitalized on Mary Washington's turnovers to maintain their offensive pressure. The Falcons continued to find opportunities from beyond the arc, with Leonardi adding another three-pointer late in the quarter. Despite Cedar Crest's efforts, the Eagles' consistent scoring in the paint helped them regain control. The Falcons managed to keep the game close with a free throw from junior Samora Merchant (Danbury, Conn./Henry Abbott Technical), bringing the score within three points. However, a late three-pointer from Mary Washington extended their lead, closing the quarter with a 31-25 advantage.

Cedar Crest faced a challenging third quarter, where they struggled to maintain momentum amidst turnovers. Despite this, Merchant played a vital role, contributing a series of baskets including a layup at 5:45, narrowing the deficit to 12 points. The Falcons' defense, led by junior Analyse Rios (Orlando, Fla./Timber Creek) with a key steal early in the quarter, helped disrupt the Eagles' offensive flow. However, Mary Washington capitalized on Cedar Crest's turnovers, extending their lead with fast-break points, highlighted by sophomore McKenna Huff's (Fairfax, Va.) back-to-back layups in the final minute. The Falcons responded with a late three-pointer from sophomore Ella Bincarosky (Coopersburg, Pa./Bethlehem Catholic) with five seconds remaining, closing the quarter with a score of 50-41 in favor of the Eagles.

Cedar Crest began the fourth quarter with a defensive rebound by Merchant at 9:24, setting the tone early. Despite turnovers, the Falcons managed key defensive stops, highlighted by Merchant's block at 7:55. Merchant then scored a jumper at 7:31, assisted by Bincarosky, bringing the Falcons' score to 50. Bincarosky contributed offensively with a jumper at 6:11 and a triple at 4:00, closing the gap. However, Mary Washington's scoring run, including a three-pointer at 6:31 by junior Maddy Jenisch (Randolph, N.J.), extended their lead. The Cedar Crest defense continued to work, with first-year Hailey Wolbeck (Hemet, Calif./Western Center Academy) blocking a layup at 2:08, but the Eagles maintained control, ultimately leading 64-50 at the final buzzer.

Merchant scored 14 points and collected 10 rebounds, showcasing strong inside play. Bincarosky contributed 15 points, including three successful three-pointers, and recorded two steals. Leonardi added 11 points, all from beyond the arc, with a perfect performance from the free throw line. Rios provided defensive support with two steals and four assists.

Senior Rileigh Weaver (Newport News, Va.) paced Mary Washington with 14 points, converting five of her 10 field goal attempts and adding four free throws. She also contributed eight rebounds and three steals. First-year Ainsley Phillips (Annadale, Va.) followed closely, scoring 11 points on 5-of-13 shooting while securing seven total rebounds. First-year Julianna Fisher (Pinehurst, N.C.) provided a solid performance with 10 points and collected six rebounds. Huff played a key defensive role, recording five steals along with six points. Junior Jenna Steadman (Round Hill, Va.) added five points, four assists, and three steals.

Cedar Crest (5-6 overall) will return to action on Saturday, January 3 at home against Gallaudet University for a conference tilt at 1:00 p.m. The University of Mary Washington (4-11 overall) next hosts Hood College on Saturday at 1:00 p.m.