Women's Basketball Drops 68-56 Decision at Old Westbury

Written by Joshua Soto (SJC-LI Sports Information)

Old Westbury, NY| On Wednesday, the St. Joseph's (L.I.) women's basketball team fell to the SUNY College Old Westbury, 68-56, in Skyline Conference play at the Clark Athletic Center.

The Golden Eagles (5-12, 2-6 Skyline) were led by sophomore forward Andrea Iavarone, who scored a game-high 23 points.

The Panthers (13-3, 8-1 Skyline) and SJC traded baskets as both teams played to a 8-8 stalemate 3:42 into the first quarter. Rynese Smith would give the Golden Eagles their only lead of the night, 11-10, with a three pointer at the 4:46 mark. After a Bridgid McNeill layup, Old Westbury sparked a 16-2 run to close out the first with a 26-13 lead.

In the second, the Panthers led by as many as 17 points (34-17) and took a 38-24 lead into the break. The Blue and Gold continued to struggle from the floor, shooting just 5-for-13 in the second period.

Iavarone closed the deficit to single digits (42-34) with a jump shot in the paint at the 5:21 mark.  However, the Panthers were able to extend their lead back to 11 (51-40) to close out the third.

Alexis Lopez opened up the fourth with a three-pointer to give Old Westbury at 54-40 cushion. A pair of free throws by Andrea Iavarone at the 4:29 minute mark brought the Golden Eagles to an 11 point deficit 60-49. However, SJC's bid for a comeback would fall short as the Panthers outscored the Golden Eagles to close the game out 68-56.

Iavarone scored her 23 points on 9-of-19 shooting, including 5-of-5 from the charity stripe. Smith finished with 12 points and five rebounds.

Head coach Kelley Watts and her Golden Ealges return to the hardwood next Tuesday (Jan. 26) as they play host to Yeshiva University on "Welcome Back Students Night." Fans in attendance will have a chance to win prizes that include a 50-inch HDTV and an iPad Mini. More information available at www.sjcgoldeneagles.com #SJCBoldInGold