Williamsport, Pa. - (12/30/2021) - Gwynedd Mercy University (6-7) concluded their stay at Lycoming College's Hoops for Hounds Tournament with today's noon (12:00 p.m.) tip-off versus William Paterson University (6-4). Junior forward Haley Crossley (Warminster, Pa.) led the Griffins' fourth-quarter push as the Pioneers used a 17-13 second-quarter advantage and a 17-12 third-quarter edge to eventually defeat Gwynedd Mercy University by a 75-65 measure. Crossley scored 10 of her 15 points in the final frame and finished the game with eight rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Fellow junior, guard Kelly Owens (Schwenksville, Pa.) was the only other Griffin in double figures as she made three (3-of-8, .375) of her four baskets (4-of-10, .400) from long range and made three of her four free throws (3-of-4, .750) for a total of 14 points. Senior Elise Sylvester (Pottstown, Pa.) was a major contributor as well with eight points, six rebounds, six assists, and three steals.

Gwynedd Mercy University led at the start, pacing William Paterson University to an 11-9 (5:01) spread. Unfortunately, the momentum changed hands with a Pioneer three, 12-11 (4:38), that inspired William Paterson University to a 22-20 (0:31) first-quarter lead and a 34-25 favor during the middle two frames; 56-45 (1:17). In the fourth quarter, Crossley's ability to get to the free throw line helped Gwynedd Mercy University keep pace. But it would not be enough as the Pioneers never let the Griffins get closer than five points, 63-58 (4:35), in the final period.

Gwynedd Mercy University competes next on Wednesday, January 5, when they open their Atlantic East Conference (AEC) with a 6:00 p.m. tip-off at Cabrini University.