HACKENSACK, N.J. — Chicago State (8-19, 7-7 NEC) fell to FDU (23-4, 14-0 NEC), 66-52, at the Bogota Savings Bank Center. Chicago State scored 22 points off the bench and matched FDU with 16 offensive rebounds.
Chicago State began the game with a strong start as
Chloe Sisco sank a 3-pointer at 9:07, granting the team an early lead. Sisco continued to be a key player, hitting another 3-pointer at 7:20, assisted by
Brianna Hill, keeping the score tight.
Kyara Champagne added to the Cougars' momentum with a game-tying 3-pointer at 4:24. However, despite their efforts, Chicago State finished the first quarter trailing FDU 17–11.
The Cougars narrowed the gap early in the second quarter with
Kayla Mount's layup at 9:46, followed by a jumper from
Marisa Gant, reducing the deficit to two points. Despite their efforts, FDU went on a scoring spree, extending its lead with a series of inside baskets and a critical 3-pointer by Kailee McDonald at 2:32. Chicago State managed to stay competitive with a late layup by
Keona McGee, who has recorded at least 10 total points in 12 consecutive games. Still, they could not close the gap as the quarter ended 36–24 in favor of FDU.
Chicago State had a tough time to gain the momentum in the third quarter. The Cougars managed to capitalize on offensive rebounds, scoring eight points in the paint. Despite these efforts, the Cougars faced challenges from FDU's quick transition plays, notably a fast-break 3-pointer making it 41–28 with 4:12 left. The quarter concluded with CSU trailing 50–33.
Chicago State managed to outscore FDU 19–16 in the fourth quarter. Starting with strong defensive plays,
Brianna Hill's steal at 9:18 set the tone, allowing Chicago State to capitalize on turnovers.
Chloe Sisco contributed with an assist to
Paris Bass at 5:04, narrowing the gap. In the closing minutes, CSU continued to press, with
Kyara Champagne's layup at 1:27 bringing them closer.
Tania Allen's two free throws at 1:00 further reduced the deficit. However, Chicago State's efforts were not enough to overcome the earlier gap, and the game concluded with FDU securing a 66-52 victory.
Keona McGee led the scoring with 10 points and added three assists.
Kyara Champagne contributed nine points, including one 3-pointer.
Brianna Hill made four free throws and recorded two steals.
Tania Allen collected seven rebounds and added two steals.
Chicago State has a record of 8-19 overall and 7-7 in NEC play. FDU holds a record of 23-4 overall and is 14-0 in NEC competition.
UP NEXT
The Cougars will return to the court to face Central Connecticut State University on Saturday, Feb. 21. The game will take place at 12:00 p.m. (CT) at Detrick Gymnasium in New Britain, Connecticut.
