The Gannon University women’s basketball team lost consecutive games last week to PSAC West division rivals California (Pa.) and Seton Hill after previously reeling off seven wins in a row.
The twin defeats left the Knights 11-5 overall and 9-3 in the PSAC West, tied with California going into Wednesday’s 5:30 p.m. matchup at rival Mercyhurst. The Lakers bring an overall mark of 9-9 and a 7-5 PSAC West record into the game at the Mercyhurst Athletic Center.
Gannon traveled to California on Jan. 13 to take on the Vulcans, and the Knights were edged 64-58 after a fourth quarter in which California outscored Gannon 19-7.
The Knights were led by seniors Morgan Neighbors and Jenny Thies. Neighbors had a team-high 18 points while Thies recorded her eighth double-double of the season with 12 points and 17 rebounds.
California capitalized on 21 points off of 18 Gannon turnovers, despite shooting 35 percent for the game.
The Knights looked to rebound at home Saturday against Seton Hill, but were ultimately unsuccessful, falling 62-49.
The Griffins outscored Gannon 40-17 in the second half, including a 22-5 fourth-quarter advantage.
Neighbors and Thies again led the way. Neighbors led all scorers with 17 points, while Thies was a point shy of another double-double, registering nine points and 11 rebounds.
Senior LaShawna Gatewood also added a season and career-high eight points.
The Griffins used 15 Knight turnovers and 30 bench points to spur their second half run.
Following Wednesday’s meeting with crosstown rival Mercyhurst, the Knights return home to host the Pink Zone game and Athletics Hall of Fame doubleheader Saturday, matching up against Slippery Rock at 1 p.m.

MAX SENG
[email protected]