WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — Despite a furious 14-0 run in the fourth quarter, William & Mary women's basketball fell to Campbell 63-54 on Friday night at Kaplan Arena.
William & Mary (10-9, 3-5 CAA) started the first quarter with a strong showing, highlighted by
Kyah Smith's 3-pointer assisted by
Cassidy Geddes at 9:31. The home team capitalized on defensive plays, including a notable block by
Natalie Fox and several steals, to maintain pressure on the Fighting Camels (14-8, 7-2).
Alexa Mikeska's performance, including a 3-pointer and an assist, helped W&M keep pace.
Despite offensive bursts from Campbell, including back-to-back scores by Olivia Tucker, the Green and Gold managed to stay close. A crucial layup by Geddes at the buzzer, assisted by Mikeska, narrowed the gap. The quarter ended with W&M trailing 21-18.
W&M struggled to maintain control in the second quarter, as turnovers and defensive challenges allowed the Fighting Camels to capitalize. Despite an early basket by Geddes at 9:46, the team was unable to sustain momentum, committing nine turnovers. Campbell pulled ahead through consistent free throw shooting and a key layup by N'na Konate at 4:58. The quarter ended with Campbell leading 33-23, as W&M faced a seven-point deficit entering the second half.
The Green & Gold closed the gap in the third quarter with a strong effort, highlighted by
Kyah Smith's 3-pointer at 9:07, assisted by Mikeska. The senior guard played a pivotal role, adding two free throws and a jumper, contributing to an overall solid offensive performance. Despite a competitive push from Campbell, the Tribe outscored their opponent 17-16 in the quarter. The quarter ended with Campbell leading, 49-40.
The Tribe initiated a strong fourth quarter, closing the gap to Campbell's lead through a series of key plays by Fox, who scored multiple times in the paint. At 4:39,
Monet Dance tied the game at 51 with a jumper, assisted by Mikeska, setting up a dramatic finish.
The momentum shifted back and forth as Campbell retook the lead following a crucial 3-pointer by Olivia Tucker. Despite a late push by W&M, including a 3-pointer by Dance at 3:53, Campbell managed to hold their advantage, responding with a 12-0 run over the final three minutes and change to seal the win.
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