READING, PA — Penn State Berks fell to Penn College, 69-47, on Tuesday, January 13, despite securing 42 total rebounds.

The game began with the Nittany Lions working to find their rhythm as Hailey Miller scored a layup to tie the game at 2-2. Despite a solid defensive effort, including a block by Gabrielle Merritt, Berks struggled with turnovers, committing eight in the quarter. The Wildcats capitalized on these opportunities, building momentum with a series of layups and jumpers, including a fast-break layup by RaeAnna Andreas with 1:21 remaining. The quarter closed with a 3-pointer from Miller, cutting the deficit slightly. At the end of the first quarter, Berks trailed the Wildcats 14-5.

Berks opened the second quarter with a series of strategic plays, including a three-pointer by Hailey Miller at 8:18, narrowing the gap against the Wildcats. Gabrielle Merritt connected on another three-pointer, assisted by Gianna Roberts, at 7:47, to further cut into the deficit. Despite these efforts, turnovers hindered their progress, allowing the Wildcats to capitalize with fast-break opportunities. The Blue & White continued to fight back with Gianna Roberts assisting Annie Laubach on a layup at 3:33, keeping the score within reach. However, the Wildcats maintained momentum with effective scoring in the paint, extending their lead. Abbie Groy hit a crucial three-pointer with 1:45 remaining, providing a late surge. Ultimately, the quarter concluded with Berks trailing 35-24.

The Wildcats began the third quarter with a significant momentum shift, scoring early and extending their lead with a series of successful field goals, including a 3-pointer by Kenni Galbreath just 11 seconds into the quarter. Berks responded with defensive efforts as Jalyn Hann and Annie Laubach each recorded steals, capitalizing on turnovers by the visitors. Despite these efforts, the home team struggled with shooting, making only four of 17 attempts. Gabrielle Merritt contributed with a free throw and a defensive rebound that led to a layup by Kiara Altine, cutting into the deficit. However, the Wildcats maintained control with strong shooting, including a late 3-pointer by Lexi Troup. The quarter closed with the Wildcats enhancing their lead, finishing the third quarter with a score of 55–35.

Berks opened the fourth quarter with a strong defensive effort, highlighted by Merritt's key defensive rebound at 9:46. Despite early struggles to convert on offense, Merritt scored a layup at 7:02, contributing to a resilient effort in the paint. Merritt continued to impact the game with a 3-pointer at 5:27, assisted by Reagan Thorp, narrowing the gap. Thorp then added a jumper at 4:55, cutting into the Wildcats' lead. The quarter saw Berks effectively utilizing their bench for points, keeping pressure on the visitors. In the closing minutes, Abigail Pfander hit two free throws at 0:03 to close the scoring for Berks. The home team matched the visitors' rebounding efforts but ultimately fell short, with the quarter ending 14-12 in favor of the Wildcats, resulting in a final score of 69-47.

Jalyn Hann collected 11 rebounds, including nine on the defensive end. Gabrielle Merritt scored 11 points and recorded nine rebounds, contributing a notable defensive presence. Hailey Miller added 10 points and registered two steals, enhancing the team's defensive efforts. Gianna Roberts facilitated the offense with six assists and tallied three steals, showcasing her playmaking capabilities.

WHO'S NEXT
The Nittany Lions will travel to face Cedar Crest College on Saturday, Jan. 17. Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. at a venue in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

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