EASTON, Mass. — Chicago State (9-22, 8-10 NEC) fell to Stonehill (12-17, 8-10 NEC), 69-61, at Merkert Gymnasium. The Cougars recorded 11 steals in the game, but Stonehill secured the win with a stronger second quarter.
The Cougars started strong, opening the game with efficient shooting and maintaining control through much of the first quarter.
Chloe Sisco's pair of three-pointers, including one at 5:43, helped the team build momentum.
Tania Allen contributed with key plays, including a defensive rebound and a layup, as Chicago State led 18-15 at the end of the first quarter.
CSU briefly regained momentum early in the second quarter with
Tania Allen's two free throws at 7:51, tying the game at 20. Despite a defensive steal by Allen soon after, Stonehill countered with a series of successful baskets, including a 3-pointer at 5:04, which extended its lead. The quarter concluded with the Chicago State trailing 35-26.
The Cougars gained momentum with
Keona McGee's layup and subsequent tip-in, closing the gap to 38–30 early in the third period. McGee continued to lead the offense with a fast-break 3-pointer at 6:08, bringing the Cougars within five points. Despite efforts to sustain the comeback, Stonehill maintained its lead, ultimately closing the quarter ahead 53–42. The game ended with Stonehill securing the victory at 53–42.
Chicago State started the fourth quarter with a significant push, closing the gap with a series of key plays. Notable moments included
Tania Allen's layup at 8:19, assisted by
Marisa Gant, and
Keona McGee's layup and free throw at 3:58, narrowing Stonehill's lead to 62–55. Despite efforts in the paint and on fast breaks, the Cougars faced resistance late in the quarter.
Marisa Gant's tip-in with 6 seconds remaining brought the score to 67–61, but the Cougars couldn't close the gap further. The game ended with a final score of 69–61 in favor of Stonehill.
McGee led the team with 20 points, connecting on 8 of 23 shot attempts, and added four steals. Allen contributed 11 points and recorded seven rebounds, alongside two blocks and two steals.
Kace Urlacher made an impact defensively with three blocks and added two assists.
Kayla Mount posted six rebounds and two blocks while scoring seven points.
UP NEXT
The Cougars will now be the six seed in the upcoming NEC Tournament. The Cougars will battle the three seed LIU Sharks in the Quarterfinal round on March 9.
