Reading, PA- The Penn St. Berks Women's Basketball Team could not overcome a slow start, falling to Neumann University by a score of 72-29 on Monday, Dec. 2.

The Lions (0-6 Overall) could not find any rhythm in the first quarter, being outscored by Neumann (5-3 Overall) 30-2 in the opening frame. Berks tried to find its footing in the second quarter, with Gianna Roberts converting a free throw and Gabrielle Merrit putting back an offensive rebound. Hailey Miller and Ashlyn Clark finished back-to-back layups in transition to chip away at the deficit. The Knights squashed any rally attempt, closing the half on a 15-2 run to lead 49-11 at the break.

Berks tried to keep pace in the second half, with Clark converting a layup in transition early in the fourth quarter. Mahala Ruffner left a mark on the score sheet, converting a layup and then Miller was fouled in transition, making a pair of free throws. Kiara Altine knocked down a long jump shot, but the Lions still trailed by 42 heading into the fourth quarter. Berks could not cut into the deficit in the final frame, falling 72-29.

The Lions were led in scoring by Miller who scored five points to go along with a team-high 11 rebounds. Abigail Pfander turned in her best performance of the season, scoring five points while pulling in seven rebounds. Morgan Dunbar and Clark each added four points.

WHO'S NEXT
The Lions will begin conference play, traveling to face Wilson College on Wednesday, Dec. 4. The opening tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM.

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Fans can keep up with Penn St. Berks Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube using the handle @BerksAthletics.