EASTON, Mass. — New Haven Women's Basketball (7-18, 5-9 NEC) fell to Stonehill (10-15, 6-8 NEC), 62-58, at Merkert Gymnasium in a closely contested Northeast Conference matchup. The Chargers mounted a strong fourth-quarter rally, outscoring Stonehill 21-10, and capitalized on 10 steals to convert 17 points off turnovers, but Stonehill's third-quarter surge proved decisive.

McDonald-Perry posted her tenth double-double of the season with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and seven steals. Sulikowski led New Haven with 18 points, including four of six from three-point range. Hogan added 13 points and four rebounds, while Grannum contributed five assists and one steal.

New Haven opened the game with a steady defensive effort, recording three steals in the first quarter to limit Stonehill's opportunities. Despite some early missed shots, the Chargers capitalized on second chances, with Lindsay Hogan (Bayville, N.Y./Locust Valley) scoring key points in the paint. Aniya McDonald-Perry's (Middletown, Conn./Putnam Science Academy) assists facilitated scoring, helping New Haven narrow the gap to 18-12 by the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, McDonald-Perry's two steals led to transition opportunities, including a fastbreak layup that set the early tone. Midway through, Merit Innocent's (Delta State, Nigeria/Busche Academy) offensive rebound and tip-in, along with Addisen Sulikowski's (Saco, ME/Thornton Academy) 3-pointer, helped New Haven tie the game at 22. Sulikowski continued her impact with another offensive rebound and follow-up basket. The Blue & Gold ended the half trailing 28-25 after a late Stonehill basket.

The third quarter saw New Haven struggle against Stonehill's offensive momentum. Despite Hogan's efforts, including a crucial 3-pointer and an assist on a layup, the Chargers trailed 52-37 by the end of the quarter.

New Haven started the fourth quarter strong with a McDonald-Perry layup, assisted by Renelle Grannum (Baldwin, N.Y./Baldwin). The team maintained pressure, with Innocent contributing a jumper and Sulikowski hitting a crucial 3-pointer. New Haven forced Stonehill into seven turnovers, earning five steals in the process. Midway through, Innocent and McDonald-Perry scored in the paint, supported by defensive rebounds. McDonald-Perry's and-one play and free throws from Innocent kept the margin tight.

In the closing minutes, New Haven's defense created opportunities, including a steal from Grannum leading to a jumper by Hogan. Despite Stonehill's late free throws, New Haven's comeback attempt concluded with a 62-58 final score in favor of Stonehill.

"We got behind early but battled back four times. Aniya was a great leader. Lindsay played hard on both sides of the ball. We shared the ball and had four in double figures. Merit was outstanding off the bench. Team left it all out there tonight," Head Coach Debbie Buff said following the game.

Up Next, the Chargers will host FDU on Saturday, Feb. 21 at The Hazell Center in West Haven, Conn. The matchup is set to begin at 1 p.m.