LANGHORNE, Pa. — Penn State Berks defeated Cairn University, 77-71, with a strong performance in the paint, scoring 40 points. The game saw five ties and six lead changes, highlighting the competitive nature of the matchup.
Berks started the first quarter effectively, capitalizing on offensive rebounds to gain an early advantage.
Gabrielle Merritt's three-pointer at 8:40 initiated the scoring, and the team continued to build momentum with consistent efforts in the paint, highlighted by
Jalyn Hann's layup at 2:34. The Blue & White maintained defensive pressure, securing multiple rebounds and taking advantage of the Highlanders' shooting struggles. The visitors closed the quarter strong, with
Hailey Miller hitting two free throws with 39 seconds left to help Berks end the first quarter leading 20-13.
The Nittany Lions opened the second quarter with a strong presence in the paint, scoring 10 points from close range. Merritt contributed crucial points from the free-throw line early, while McKinzie Tritz and Miller provided key assists throughout the period. Despite the Highlanders' attempts to shift the momentum with a couple of 3-pointers, the Nittany Lions maintained their composure, highlighted by Merritt's late three-pointer extending the lead. Defensively, Berks was active with two steals, creating opportunities to sustain their offensive momentum. Although the Highlanders managed to close the gap with a late three-pointer, Berks ended the period ahead, leading 37-35.
Berks seized control in the third quarter through a dominant performance in the paint, scoring 14 points in that area and capitalizing on turnovers to add six more points. Merritt contributed significantly with a key 3-pointer, while Miller provided defensive strength with a block and several rebounds. The Nittany Lions extended their lead with effective ball movement, as evidenced by seven assists and Miller's triple-double performance, which included a career-high 18 rebounds and 12 assists, closing the quarter ahead at 63-45.
The fourth quarter saw the Blue & White capitalizing on key opportunities to maintain their lead. Merritt hit a crucial 3-pointer at 7:43, assisted by Hann, which was part of a larger effort to stay ahead despite the Highlanders' attempts to close the gap. Miller added to the momentum with a fast-break layup at 6:45, extending the lead further. Despite a series of turnovers, the Nittany Lions managed to keep the pressure on, with
Liz Ruiz contributing a layup at 3:10, ensuring a steady scoring pace. As the period neared its end, Miller sealed the game with a free throw, concluding the quarter with Berks leading 77-71.
Gabrielle Merritt led the scoring with a career-high 28 points, including four 3-pointers, and added seven rebounds.
Jalyn Hann contributed a career-high 22 points, converting all six of her free throw attempts, and collected eight rebounds.
Hailey Miller recorded an impressive triple-double with a career-high 18 rebounds and added12 assists tying the program record for most in a single game while scoring 15 points.
Reagan Thorp made an impact on defense with two steals.
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