LASERS FALL TO UNDEFEATED PRIDE

The Lasers dropped a 61-84 decision to Regis College this afternoon in women's basketball action.  Lasell's Tricia Culver (N. Hampton, Mass.) led all players in scoring with 23 points, while first year Amanda Driscoll (Roslindale, Mass.) ignited the Lasers throughout the contest with her determined play. 

The Pride scored off the opening tip with Laura Sears fast breaking down an open lane. But the Lasers answered with Culver grabbing an offensive rebound and powering in a bucket with two defenders on her.  The Lasers then went up 4-2 on the next possession with Shauna Kelly (Quincy, Mass.) making a move in the post and laying the ball in off the glass.

Regis played a constant full court man-to-man press, forcing the Lasers to turn the ball over.  The Pride pushed the ball in transition, producing multiple fast breaks and man-down situations for Lasell.  Regis went on a 9-0 run over a four minute, which was finally broken by Driscoll who nailed a long three, even with a Pride defender's hand in her face.  Driscoll's three brought the game back within 7 points at 18-11.

Unfortunately for Lasell, the Pride caught fire after a three pointer by Meagan Tobin and went up 29-14 with 8:30 left in the half.  Lasell was finding offensive options but the ball would not fall for the Lasers, and the Pride's rebounding prevented second chance shots. 

With 6:38 remaining, Kim Mariotti drilled a three, scoring her 1,000th point, and putting the Pride up by 22.  The Lasers continued to play aggressive, but after foul Culver got into foul trouble and exited the game with 4:15 left in the half, the Lasers found themselves at a disadvantage down low.   Regis took advantage, and upped their lead, closing out the half at 50-23.

The Lasers inched back into the game in the second half.    Though down 29-50 with 15 minutes left, the Lasers continued to work hard to close the gap.  Sparked by Driscoll's unrelenting play, the Lasers went on an 11-3 run over the following three minutes.  Driscoll started by grabbing an offensive board and feeing Culver who completed a traditional three point play.  The Lasers then forced a Regis into a shot clock violation, followed by a three by Driscoll. 

After eleven more points by Culver, and a three by Katie Farr (Rindge, NH) Lasell came within 53-72 with 7:30 remaining.   Lasell had multiple more defensive stops throughout the rest of regulation but the Pride were too far out of reach and Regis finished with a 84-61 win. 

Culver was not only the high scorer of the match but also hit the glass picking up 8 rebounds.  Kelly was second in scoring with 21 points and 6 rebounds, playing the entire contest.  Driscoll ended a great game with 6 points, 4 rebounds and 2 blocks.

Sarah McNult led for the Pride recording the games only double-double with 16 rebounds and 20 points.

Lasell (2-4) will next challenge Plymouth State University next on Tuesday, December 9th, on their home court. Tip off time is 8:00 p.m.