Raptors Fall to Catamounts
The Montgomery College Raptors women's basketball team faced off against the Potomac State Catamounts in a competitive match.
Potomac State struck first with a jump shot from Ericka Zirk, but Montgomery quickly responded with a three-pointer by Litzy Lujan-Gonzales. The Raptors gained momentum with key baskets from Tiana Carey and Sanai Massenburg, pushing their lead to 13-5. Potomac State fought back, with Hannah Ault and Amber Bing hitting crucial three-pointers. Despite Montgomery's defensive efforts, Bing's late three tied the game at 15-15 to close the quarter, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. The second quarter was a back-and-forth battle between Montgomery College and WVU Potomac State, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times.
Montgomery College started strong, taking a 19-15 lead with a layup from Tiana Carey. However, WVU Potomac State responded with baskets from Elizabeth Pryor and Hannah Ault, tying the game at 19. Ault then hit a three-pointer to put her team ahead 22-21. The teams continued trading baskets, with Montgomery College's Daniella McGuthrie and WVU Potomac's Ericka Zirk making key shots. In the final minute, McGuthrie's jumper put Montgomery ahead 31-30, but a layup from Pryor gave WVU Potomac State a 32-31 lead at halftime. Coming out of the half, Montgomery College dominated the third quarter, outscoring WVU Potomac State College to extend their lead. Tiana Carey sparked the offense with an early jumper, followed by key steals and assists from Daniella McGuthrie. Litzy Lujan-Gonzales contributed with multiple layups, while Sanai Massenburg added crucial second-chance points. Despite missed opportunities from both teams, Montgomery maintained momentum, capitalizing on turnovers. WVU Potomac State fought back with baskets from Elizabeth Pryor and Amber Bing but struggled to close the gap. As the quarter ended, Montgomery led 50-43, setting up an intense final period. In a thrilling final quarter, with the score tied at 60-60, Potomac State's Elizabeth Pryor and Ericka Zirk capitalized on crucial free throws and field goals.
Despite a late surge from Montgomery College, including 2 clutch 3-pointers by Litzy Lujan-Gonzales, Potomac State's Brylee Wetzel and Tenley Paugh sealed the game with key plays down the stretch. Paugh's free throw with 6 seconds left and a final 3-pointer by Lujan-Gonzales fell short, leaving Potomac State to finish 68-66. Raptors move on with lessons learned and new opportunities to chase.