JERSEY CITY, N.J. - The New Jersey City University (NJCU) women's basketball team fell to Amherst 67-55 on Monday, January 27, at the John J. Moore Athletics and Fitness Center (JMAC).
Despite a determined effort, the Gothic Knights (7-11, 6-5 NJAC) struggled with their shooting, finishing at just 30.4% from the field (21-69). While they managed to hit 44.4% of their three-pointers (4-9) and shot 75% from the free-throw line (9-12), they were unable to consistently convert on their opportunities. On the other hand, the Mammoths (15-4, 7-2 NESCAC) shot 42.9% from the field (24-56) and dominated in several key areas, including points in the paint (34-16), second-chance points (15-11), and fast-break points (14-4), which allowed them to maintain control throughout the game.
Sophomore forward
Kendra Rigo (Bethlehem, Pa./Bethlehem Catholic) led NJCU with 12 points (6-14 shooting) and added four rebounds, two steals, and a block. Senior guard
Destiny Battle (East Orange, N.J./East Orange STEM Academy) posted her second double-double of the season, finishing with 11 points, 10 assists, and three rebounds. Battle's performance at the free-throw line (7-8) and her playmaking ability helped keep the offense organized. She also recorded two blocks, highlighting her defensive contributions. Sophomore forward
Autumn John (Piscataway, N.J./Piscataway) added a team-high eight rebounds and contributed nine points, but NJCU struggled to generate consistent offense against Amherst's defense.
Amherst was led by Laura Mendell, who finished with 22 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two steals, and a block. Maya Cwalina chipped in with 13 points and nine rebounds, while Kori Barach added 12 points and six rebounds. The Mammoths outscored the Gothic Knights 34-16 in the paint and had a significant edge in fast-break points (14-4).
The game began with Amherst jumping out to a 6-0 lead, but NJCU quickly responded, taking the lead at 11-10 with 4:13 remaining in the first quarter. However, the Mammoths regained the advantage and finished the first half with a 31-22 lead. The Green and Gold struggled offensively in the second quarter, shooting just 3-15 from the field, which allowed Amherst to extend their lead. In the third quarter, the Mammoths outscored NJCU 17-10 to push their lead to 48-32.
In the final minutes, down 62-44 with 3:02 remaining, NJCU mounted a late rally with an 11-4 run, highlighted by five points from Postell and four from John, cutting the deficit to 66-55. However, the Mammoths were able to hold on, securing a 67-55 victory.
UP NEXT:
The Gothic Knights will look to regroup quickly as they return to NJAC play on Wednesday, January 29, against Rutgers-Newark at the JMAC.
For the latest news, updates, and information on New Jersey City University sports, visit njcugothicknights.com. Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Gothic Knights news by following NJCU Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
