HAMDEN, Conn. – Harvard women's basketball (2-1, 0-0 Ivy) closed the opening week of college basketball this afternoon, falling to Quinnipiac (2-0, 0-0 MAAC), 76-53. 

Alayna Rocco bested her career-high from just a game ago to lead the Crimson in scoring with 13 points. 

How it Happened

Following a slow start to the contest for either team, the Crimson combined a strong defensive effort and a quarter closing 9-1 scoring run to give itself a 13-8 advantage at the end of 10 minutes.  Harvard continued its disruptive defense early in the match up, forcing eight Bobcat turnovers in the opening frame. 

Harvard struggled to connect on the offensive end to open the second, allowing Quinnipiac the opportunity to take back the lead.  The Bobcats grew out its lead before a bucket from Saniyah Glenn-Bello halted the run.  Gabby Anderson added to the effort, draining a triple to pull Harvard within four.  Ultimately, Quinnipiac was able to regrow its advantage and move up, 31-20, heading into the locker room.  At the half, Anderson led with seven points, four rebounds, and three steals. 

Quinnipiac used the third quarter to increase its momentum, combining three-point shooting and connecting at the free-throw line to grow its lead out to as many as 25. 

Harvard continued to show its fight until the final whistle.  While trying to claw into the deficit, the Crimson outscored the Bobcats in the final frame and forced seven more turnovers.  However, the Bobcats were able to close the match up with a 76-53 final decision.  

Harvard Highlights

• Alayna Rocco led all Crimson scorers by posting her career-high with 13 points.  The first-year has recorded a new career-high in each outing this week.  Rocco also added three rebounds in the contest. 
• Harmoni Turner added nine points, four rebounds, three assists, a block, and two steals against the Bobcats. 
• Gabby Anderson led the Crimson in rebounds and steals, recording six and four, respectively. 
• As a team, Harvard record 12 steals and forced 18 Quinnipiac turnovers.

Next Up

Harvard will return to its home court this week to face crosstown rival, Boston College, on Thursday, November 14.  Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. inside Lavietes Pavilion and on ESPN+.