ALLENTOWN, Pa. — The Cedar Crest College basketball team defeated Penn State Berks, 80-58, at Lees Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon, dominating the boards with a 43-30 rebounding advantage. The Falcons forced 19 turnovers, converting them into 25 points.

Cedar Crest initiated play with a strong offensive presence, as first-year Gabrielle Moore (Lancaster, Pa./Conestoga Valley) drained a three-pointer just 13 seconds into the quarter, with an assist from sophomore Ginger Kerdock (Annapolis, Md./Broadneck). The Falcons capitalized on turnovers, forcing seven from the Nittany Lions, which helped them maintain early momentum. Cedar Crest also showcased defensive strength, with junior Samora Merchant (Danbury, Conn./Henry Abbott Technical) recording two blocks, contributing to a tight defensive stand.

In the middle of the quarter, the Falcons sustained their lead through strategic assists and effective shooting from beyond the arc. Kerdock's triple at 1:57, followed by a layup from junior Weronika Swojak (Warsaw, Poland/The Orme School), emphasized their offensive efficiency. Cedar Crest closed the quarter with a 21–17 lead, maintaining a narrow advantage by limiting Penn St.-Berks' scoring opportunities.

The Falcons began the second quarter with a strong defensive effort, forcing six turnovers and converting those into quick points. Swojak and Moore contributed key layups and a timely three-pointer, respectively, as Cedar Crest worked to maintain control. A critical 7–0 scoring run midway through the frame helped them build a substantial lead.

The team continued to extend their advantage through effective shooting and ball movement, with Kerdock and first-year Hailey Wolbeck (Hemet, Calif./Western Center Academy) adding to the scoreline. Despite the Nittany Lions' attempts to close the gap, the Falcons capitalized on fast breaks and second-chance opportunities. Cedar Crest ended the quarter with a 47–30 lead. 

The Falcons opened the third quarter with a strong defensive effort, highlighted by Merchant's block at 9:24. Kerdock contributed with a key jumper and a defensive rebound, setting the tone for the Cedar Crest presence in the paint. The Falcons maintained momentum with fast-break points, including a layup from Kerdock at 5:07 following her steal.

The quarter saw Cedar Crest executing well on both ends, with Moore and Merchant each securing defensive stops. First-year Brooke Leonardi (Stewartsville, N.J./Phillipsburg) capped a quick offensive transition with a three-pointer at 2:41, extending the lead. The Falcons closed the quarter maintaining the lead at 63-49, despite a late scoring surge by Penn State Berks.

Cedar Crest extended its advantage in the fourth quarter with a strong offensive performance, beginning with Kerdock's three-pointer at 8:12. The team capitalized on turnovers, with sophomore Ella Bincarosky (Coopersburg, Pa./Bethlehem Catholic) contributing a key steal and assist early in the quarter. The Falcons maintained control in the paint, with Merchant securing multiple offensive rebounds and points, including a successful layup at 2:23.

The home team continued to build momentum as junior Analyse Rios (Orlando, Fla./Timber Creek) and Kerdock added crucial points, with Rios assisting Kerdock's second three-pointer at 4:38. Cedar Crest's defense limited Penn State Berks' opportunities, allowing only two fast-break points and forcing turnovers. The quarter concluded with a layup from Kerdock at the 30-second mark, sealing the 80-58 victory for the Falcons.

Sophomore Ginger Kerdock (Annapolis, Md./Broadneck) scored a season-high 29 points, including four three-pointers, and added seven assists to lead the team. Merchant posted 16 points and recorded five blocks, contributing significantly on both ends. Moore added a season-high 12 points, all from beyond the arc, and collected four steals. Rios tallied 10 points and matched Moore with four steals, also contributing seven rebounds.

First-year Annie Laubach (New Freedom, Pa.) led Penn State Berks with 15 points, connecting on 5-of-11 from the field while adding four assists. Sophomore Gabrielle Merritt (Pittsburgh, Pa.) contributed 13 points, including two three pointers, and secured six rebounds. She also recorded two steals. Senior Hailey Miller (Lehighton, Pa.) posted 12 points, hitting 4-of-14 from the field with two three-pointers, and collected seven rebounds. Sophomore Gianna Roberts (Reading, Pa.) added two steals and three assists, supporting the team's defensive efforts.

Cedar Crest's (11-6 overall, 5-2 United East) next game will take place as they host Penn State Schuylkill on Wednesday, January 21 at 6:00 p.m. Penn State Berks (2-14 overall, 1-5 United East) will host Gallaudet University on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.