Potsdam, NY – Despite a strong second half run that cut the margin to single digits, the Clarkson University Women's Basketball team could not overcome a slow start in the second quarter, falling to Plattsburgh State 76-60 in the season opener Wednesday at Alumni Gymnasium.

The Golden Knights will look to get on the winning side of things when they head to SUNY Poly on Friday.

Neither team had much trouble scoring in the first, as Plattsburgh finished with a 21-17 lead through 10 minutes. However, the Knights did not get on the board in the second quarter until a pair of free throws from Bella Doyle went through, ending an 0-for-9 streak from the floor with six turnovers. Plattsburgh took advantage in that time, going on a 17-0 run for a 21-point lead.

In the third, the Knights' offense steadied and began trading points with the Cardinals before going on a little run of their own. A lay up from Addie Kea pulled Clarkson back within seven late in the quarter before Plattsburgh returned the margin to double figures at the conclusion of the third. Midway through the fourth, Clarkson was back within single digits, but free throws down the stretch gave the Cardinals a 16-point win.

Sophomore Bella Doyle came within a rebound of a double-double, scoring 17 points to go along with nine rebounds, while junior guard Cassidy Dumont tossed in 15 points. Raelin Burns also scored 14 for the Knights, and Addie Kea recorded eight rebounds, four assists, and a pair of steals.

For Plattsburgh, Imani Walcott shot 8-for-14 from the floor for 17 points, one of five Cardinals to finish in double figures. Jaden Wilson had 14 points (6-for-9 from the field) and Payton Couture scored 11 points with five assists.