SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – The Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) women's basketball team battled down to the wire but fell 62-57 to Vermont State University Randolph in Yankee Small College Conference (YSCC) action on Saturday afternoon.

SUMMARY

Despite a strong first half, SMCC struggled to contain Vermont's second-half push where they shot 55.6% in the third quarter. Hannah Thorsen (Kittery, Maine) and Jade Trueman (Sanbornville, N.H.) led the Seawolves with 12 points each while Thorsen recorded five rebounds, and Trueman tallied eight rebounds. Halle Tripp (Searsmont, Maine) added 11 points, four assists, and two steals, keeping SMCC competitive.

The Seawolves shot 36.9% from the field but struggled from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Vermont capitalized at the free-throw line, making 20-of-28.

HOW IT HAPPENED

SMCC started strong, jumping out to a 13-10 lead after the first quarter, fueled by early baskets from Thorsen and Trueman. The Seawolves maintained their edge in the second quarter, outscoring Vermont 16-14 behind efficient midrange shooting and strong rebounding.

However, Vermont came out with a surge in the third quarter, nearly outscoring SMCC 19-18  forcing eight turnovers. Vermont's Yvonne Roberge (21 points, 14 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals) took over in the second half, attacking the paint and hitting shots to swing momentum in their favor.

In the final quarter, Vermont's Marielle Benoit (17 points, 9 rebounds) hit a crucial three-pointer with 1:51 remaining, giving the visitors a 57-55 lead. Taylor Renna (Pembroke, N.H.) tied it up at 57-57 with a layup at 1:26, but Vermont responded with another layup of their own.

Vermont iced the game at the free-throw line to escape with the 62-57 victory.

LOOKING AHEAD

SMCC (12-12, 8-7 YSCC) look to bounce back in their recatch against Vermont on Saturday Feb 22 at The HUB Athletic Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 1PM.