The Bellarmine University women’s basketball team was defeated by North Alabama 67-52 in an Atlantic Sun Conference game held Saturday at Flowers Hall in Florence, Alabama. The Knights (2-15, 0-4 ASUN) stayed close to the Lions (6-9, 1-3) during the first half, trailing by only three points at halftime.
North Alabama took control of the game in the third quarter, outscoring Bellarmine 25-11 and making 57.9 percent of their shots in that period. This allowed UNA to build a lead as large as 20 points.
Bellarmine had stronger performances in other quarters, outscoring North Alabama 12-9 in the second and 18-16 in the fourth. Despite falling behind early—UNA opened with a 12-2 run—the Knights managed to tie the game after a six-point run sparked by senior center Patricia Sherrill.
Sherrill recorded career highs with 11 points and five field goals made and was one rebound short of another personal best with eight rebounds. Freshman center Haya Abdel Aal added eight points, six rebounds, and two blocks. Sophomore guard Ava Smith contributed nine points and five assists, while sophomore forward Kayce Hyman also scored nine points along with three steals.
In the final period, Bellarmine closed the gap to ten points following a scoring stretch that included freshman guard Olivia Pifer’s first collegiate basket—a three-pointer—alongside contributions from Abdel Aal and Smith. However, North Alabama responded quickly to maintain their advantage.
Gabby Jackson led North Alabama with a double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds.
Bellarmine is scheduled to host Austin Peay at home on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
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