Hackettstown, NJ - The Cavaliers led by as any as nine points in the fourth quarter, but were unable to fend off the host Cyclones late, as Centenary University escaped with a thrilling 48-45 victory. 

The Blue and White fell to 10-10 overall and 8-3 in conference play, but will look to get back on track next Saturday (Feb. 4) as they travel to Cedar Crest College to take on the Falcons in a CSAC matchup. Game time is slated for 1pm.

Sophomore forward Nomi Washington led the Cavaliers with 14 points, giving her four consecutive games in double figures, chipping in six rebounds and four steals as well. Senior Renee Oliver was relentless on the glass for the Cavaliers as she hauled in 20 rebounds, while freshman Erin Dodds and junior Kate Skalski both contributed eight points. 

The Cavaliers came out of the gates hot as they connected on two early three pointers leading to a strong 14-0 run over the first three minutes of action. Strong defense allowed the Cavs to close out the first with a 16-3 lead. 

Centenary would answer, however as they rattled off 12-2 run to cut the lead to just three, 18-15. A quick three by Skalski followed by a layup from junior Myonie Williamson on a fast break extended the Cavs lead back to eight. The Cyclones would close the half on a 5-0 run, leaving Cabrini with just a 23-20 lead heading into the break. 

The second half wasn't kind to the Cavs as they managed to shoot just 23% from the field. With the Cavs clinging to a 37-28 lead early in the fourth quarter, the Cyclones ripped off seven straight points to climb to within two, 37-35. A pair of free throws by freshman Cassidy Gallagher briefly extended the lead back to four for the Blue and White, only to see Centenary rack up five quick points and take the lead for the first time in the game with 4:47 to go. 

Trailing 40-39, Skalski responded with a huge go-ahead three to swing momentum, and lead, back in the Cavaliers' favor with 3:09 remaining. A late three by the Cyclones' Rachel Edwards followed by a pair of free throws by teammate Amber Reisenweitz put the game away and capped the comeback for the Cyclones.

Julia Presant led the Cyclones (3-13, 1-9 CSAC) with 14 points, while Mallory George added eight points and 13 rebounds.