CHICAGO, Ill. — Chicago State (8-17, 7-5 NEC) defeated the University of New Haven (7-16, 5-7 NEC), 60-57, at the Emil & Patricia Jones Convocation Center capitalizing on 21 points off turnovers.
The Cougars opened the game effectively, establishing early momentum by converting turnovers into points, highlighted by
Keona McGee's fastbreak layup at 8:44 assisted by
Chloe Sisco. McGee, who has recorded at least 19 total points in two consecutive games, continued her impressive streak. They maintained pressure, with
Brianna Hill contributing defensively with a steal that led to
Paris Bass's second-chance layup at 8:24. Hill also stood out by converting three free throws in the game, exceeding her season average of 1.1. Despite New Haven initially taking the lead, CSU responded with consistent scoring, including a key jumper from
Marisa Gant at 3:49, to hold a 15–9 advantage at the end of the first quarter.
Chicago State experienced a shift in momentum midway through the second quarter with a layup by
Kyara Champagne at 9:00, briefly extending their lead. However, New Haven responded with a series of points, including a 3-pointer at 7:52, tying the game and then taking the lead. Despite a late push featuring a 3-pointer from Gant at 1:42 and a successful pair of free throws by
Paris Bass at 0:25, CSU trailed 31–28 at halftime after a fast-break layup by Gant closed the period. Gant, who scored 12 points, exceeded her season average of 7.0, showcasing her offensive prowess.
Brianna Hill sparked the Cougars early in the third quarter with a block, rebound, and assist that led to a McGee layup, putting them ahead at 9:10. Despite New Haven's attempts to regain control, including a brief lead,
Chloe Sisco's three-pointer at 6:32 kept the score tight. In the final minute, McGee delivered a crucial layup with 28 seconds remaining to secure a 17–13 quarter advantage for CSU. The game ended with CSU leading 45–44.
The Cougars took control in the fourth quarter with a decisive 3-pointer by Sisco at 5:29, pushing them ahead 52-51. Later, McGee's layup at 3:15 gave CSU a narrow 56-55 edge. In the final minute, Gant and Hill extended the lead with crucial baskets and free throws by Bass sealing a 60-57 victory over New Haven. The game concluded with CSU outscoring New Haven 15-13 in the fourth quarter, securing the win.
McGee led the team with 19 points, adding seven rebounds and two steals.
Tania Allen contributed defensively with three steals and two blocks while also providing three assists. Gant scored 12 points and collected five rebounds. Hill recorded three steals and five rebounds, adding to the defensive effort.
The Cougars are now 8-17 overall and 7-5 in NEC play and are currently are in fourth place in the NEC standings.
UP NEXT
The Cougars will return to action at home against Le Moyne College on Saturday, February 14 at 1 p.m. inside the Jones Convocation Center in Chicago.
