SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – The Southern Maine Community College Seawolves (5-7 overall) fell to the Community College of Rhode Island Knights (11-2 overall), 79-60, in a Saturday afternoon matchup at the HUB Athletics Center.

SUMMARY 

The Seawolves got off to a slow start offensively, which allowed CCRI to take control of the first quarter. Angelisse Melendez and Stephanie Walker led the way, showcasing strong shooting and rebounding on the offensive end.

SMCC rallied in the second quarter, with Taylor Renna (Pembroke, N.H.) and Skyler Tinker providing energy off the bench. Ashley Mullen (Oakland, Maine) connected on a pair of three-pointers to close the gap, with Hannah Thorsen (Kittery, Maine) adding 10 points during her time on the court. However, the Knights' fast-break opportunities extended the lead and ultimately secured their victory.

HOW IT HAPPENED  

CCRI built an early lead in the first. Walker collected eight rebounds, creating second-chance opportunities for the Knights, while Kellylyn Kozlin led the Knights offensively with 11 points. 

In the second quarter, SMCC began to push back. Mullen drained two three-pointers, while Renna added a three of her own. The Seawolves found their defensive energy as Milo Seams (South Paris, Maine) and Jade Trueman (Sanbornville, N.H.) helped the hosts make stops on their end of the court, but the Knights responded with outside shooting and transition play to hold a 38-27 halftime lead.

CCRI sustained the offensive pressure in the third quarter, with Melendez and Sydney Waitekus knocking down shots. SMCC's Mullen hit her third three-pointer, while Thorsen added points inside. Despite the Seawolves' effort, CCRI's second-chance points and fast breaks made the difference in this game.

The fourth quarter was sealed by CCRI with efficient offensive play, including three-pointers from Melendez and Waitekus. SMCC continued to with Abby Roy (Old Orchard Beach, Maine) and Alyssa Howard (New Gloucester, Maine) adding late points to close the gap.

LOOKING AHEAD

The Seawolves are back at home for an in-conference matchup on Saturday, January 11th, at 1 PM when they host the Paul Smith's College Bobcats (5-6 overall, 3-3 in conference).