MARCY, N.Y. – The SUNY Poly women's basketball team earned a thrilling win over North Eastern Athletic Conference (NEAC) rival Keuka College. The game came down to the final seconds with SUNY Poly ultimately earning a 65-64 win on their home court to tie up the season series, keeping their hopes of hosting the NEAC Championship alive. The Wildcats are now 15-5 this season with a 10-1 NEAC record.
MILESTONE REACHED:
Senior Rylie Smith (St. Johnsville, N.Y.) entered the game needing just 10 points to surpass the 1,000 overall point mark in her time at SUNY Poly and Fulton Montgomery Community College. She surpassed the mark in the third quarter of what was a great performance.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
In the final minute of play, the Wildcats and Wolves battled back and forth, trading the lead several times. With 41 seconds remaining in the game, the Wildcats took a two point lead on a Molly Burdick (Vestal, N.Y.) layup. Keuka would answer right back with a big three pointer by Riley Record to take to lead back, 64-63. Kiersten Leos (Camden, N.Y.) hit a go ahead layup with just 10 seconds left in regulation that ultimately sealed the deal. Keuka would have a pair of chances to win the game, but the Wildcat defense held strong to earn the win.
NOTABLES:
- Rylie Smith had a fantastic game for the Wildcats. She hit seven of eight shots from behind the arc, scoring a game best 23 points. Smith also pulled down six rebounds and had a steal in her milestone game.
- Molly Burdick and Kiersten Leos each scored 14 points in the game. Burdick had a team high eight rebounds and four assists. Leos had two assists and a game high five steals.
- Taylor Aybar (Woodside, N.Y.) had nine points and six rebounds.
- Jariah Johnson had a team high 17 points for Keuka with six rebounds, a steal and two blocks.
- Sam Laranjo and Lauren Anten had 13 and 12 points respectively for Keuka.
UP NEXT:
The Wildcats will hit the road to take on NEAC opponent Penn State Berks. The game is scheduled for a 1:00 PM start on Saturday, February 2nd.