MEDIA, Pa. — Penn State Berks (2-11, 1-2 United East) fell to Penn State Brandywine (1-10, 1-1 United East), 57-46, despite forcing 18 turnovers and securing 10 steals.

Berks opened the first quarter with defensive intensity, registering four steals and one block. Gianna Roberts connected on a 3-pointer early, assisted by Annie Laubach, to briefly take the lead at 3-2. Despite their efforts, the team struggled with turnovers, committing eight, which limited their offensive opportunities. Penn State Brandywine capitalized on second-chance points, scoring 10 from offensive rebounds. They maintained control in the paint, adding 12 points from that area. The quarter concluded with Brandywine leading 18-9, as Berks worked to contain the deficit.

The Nittany Lions made significant strides in the second quarter, cutting into Brandywine's lead. The visitors capitalized on defensive rebounds and converted crucial free throws, with Hailey Miller contributing a key 3-pointer at 8:30 to narrow the margin. Gabrielle Merritt's defensive efforts included multiple steals, helping to generate fast-break opportunities. Despite trailing, the Blue & White increased pressure, resulting in a 16-point effort for the quarter, outscoring Brandywine. The quarter closed with Berks reducing the deficit to four points, trailing 29-25 at halftime.

Annie Laubach sparked momentum for Berks in the third quarter with consecutive layups that narrowed the gap to one point early on. However, Brandywine responded with a series of scoring plays, including a layup and a fast break jumper, extending their lead to 36-29 midway through the quarter. Hailey Miller connected on a 3-pointer with just over a minute remaining, attempting to keep the game close. Despite strong efforts, including a late 3-pointer by Miller and a free throw from Laubach, Berks was unable to close the gap significantly. Brandywine capitalized on their opportunities in the paint and ended the quarter leading 46-36, outscoring Berks 17-11 for the quarter.

Berks initiated the fourth quarter with a quick scoring burst, highlighted by Annie Laubach's fast-break layup assisted by Hailey Miller at 9:20, narrowing the gap to 46–38. The team continued to show resilience, with Miller contributing both offensively and defensively, grabbing key rebounds and scoring in the paint, cutting the deficit to 48–41 with 6:30 remaining. Despite efforts from Gianna Roberts, who hit a 3-pointer assisted by Laubach at 2:51 to bring the score to 52–46, Brandywine maintained their lead. The quarter closed with Brandywine extending their advantage through free throws by Raelyn Loper, concluding the game with a 57–46 final score.

Hailey Miller posted 14 points and collected 13 rebounds, leading the team in both categories. Annie Laubach scored 13 points and recorded five assists, contributing significantly in both scoring and playmaking. Gabrielle Merritt added four points and tallied five steals, showcasing her defensive effort. Gianna Roberts scored eight points and collected two steals, providing additional defensive support.

WHO'S NEXT
The Blue & White will hit the road to face off against Penn State Harrisburg. The matchup is set for Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the Capital Union Building in Middletown, Pennsylvania.

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