YORK, Pa. — Penn State Berks fell to Penn State York 75-47 on Friday evening. Despite the loss, the Blue & White went 15-20 at the free throw line. 

Berks started the first half with early scoring, highlighted by Annie Laubach's jumper assisted by Gianna Roberts, giving them an early lead of 4-0. Hailey Miller added to the score with successful free throws, helping Berks maintain a narrow lead at 8-4. However, Penn State York responded with a series of successful shots, including a 3-pointer by Michaela Fink and a jumper by Delaney Burroughs, shifting the momentum. Despite Berks' efforts, including another jumper by Roberts, York's run extended their lead. York closed the half with a strong offensive push, highlighted by a late 3-pointer from Megan Donley. The half concluded with Berks trailing 25-13.

The Nittany Lions started the second quarter with Hailey Miller converting a free throw, followed by a jumper from Gabrielle Merritt, narrowing the gap to 27-16. Despite a push, the half saw Berks struggle with turnovers and shooting accuracy, going 4-for-14 from the field. Miller contributed significantly with a couple of crucial jumpers, but the team managed only one assist in the half. Penn State York maintained their lead through efficient ball movement, recording five assists, and capitalizing on Berks' turnovers. York's largest lead of the half was 13 points, achieved early at the 9:07 mark. The half concluded with York leading 35-22, as Berks was unable to close the gap despite a competitive effort.

Berks opened the second half by narrowing the gap with scoring contributions from Hailey Miller and Jalyn Hann. Gianna Roberts added a jumper, and Annie Laubach connected on a 3-pointer to keep the visitors within reach. Despite Penn State York's attempts to extend their lead, Berks maintained pressure, with Roberts converting free throws to keep the score competitive. The half closed with Penn State York holding a slight edge, 50-37, as Berks matched their opponent's scoring output with a 15-point half.

Berks faced a challenging final stretch as Penn State York extended their lead. Gabrielle Merritt connected on a key 3-pointer, assisted by Annie Laubach, to bring the score to 57-41. However, York responded with a series of successful shots, including multiple contributions from Delaney Burroughs, widening the margin. Despite efforts from Hailey Miller, who added points through a jumper and free throws, Berks struggled to close the gap. York capitalized on Berks' turnovers and maintained pressure, highlighted by Harper Poff's 3-pointer with 39 seconds remaining. The game concluded with Penn State York winning 75-47.

Hailey Miller led the team with 20 points, converting 10 of 13 from the free-throw line and grabbing six rebounds. Gianna Roberts contributed with eight points and a team-high five assists. Gabrielle Merritt collected nine rebounds and added seven points, including a 3-pointer. Annie Laubach scored seven points and dished out three assists while securing three defensive rebounds.

WHO'S NEXT
The Nittany Lions next matchup is against Keystone College on Wednesday, Jan. 28. The game will tip off at 5 p.m. at Keystone's home court in La Plume, Pennsylvania.

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