Alfred, NY – The Alfred State women's basketball team took a tough 65-56 loss to the Penn College Wildcats in their home opener. With the defeat, the Pioneers fall to 0-1 on the season.

Three players scored in double figures for Alfred State. Taylor Searle, Alyssa Auer, and Emiline Barton each tallied 12 points. Taylor Benjamin and Auer dominated the glass with 10 and nine rebounds, respectively, while Auer grabbed six offensive boards. Barton and Benjamin anchored the defense, combining for eight steals.

The Pioneers got off to a slow start in the first quarter, trailing 9-4 early. After some time, Auer scored inside and followed with a mid-range jumper to get Alfred going. Kirsten Merritt gave the Pioneers their first lead after checking in and knocking down a three-pointer to make it 11-9. Alfred added two more when Searle hit a pair from the line, and first-year MaKenna Manning scored her first career bucket in the paint to close the quarter with a 15-11 lead.

To start the second quarter, Searle scored on a second-chance opportunity to give Alfred a six-point edge. The Pioneers continued to hold the lead through halftime behind the efforts of Auer, Searle, and Manning.

The Pioneers entered the second half with a 30-22 advantage. After a quick bucket by the Wildcats, Searle and Barton responded with layups to extend the lead to 34-24. Both teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter, with Penn College rallying to tie the game at 43-43 late in the period. The Wildcats then converted a late bucket to take a narrow lead heading into the fourth.

Despite strong efforts down the stretch, Alfred State was unable to close the gap as Penn College pulled away for the 65-56 victory.

The Pioneers will continue their homestand as they face Thiel College next in the Crossbar Alfred Classic. Tip-off is scheduled for Friday, November 14 at 7 p.m.