Strong second half lifts Gators past Houghton, 62-45

Strong second half lifts Gators past Houghton, 62-45

HOUGHTON, N.Y. –  Russell Sage College posted a 62-45 road win over Houghton College on Saturday afternoon in Empire 8 women's basketball play. Trailing 29-26 at the half, the Gators racked up their second straight win improving to 6-7 overall and 2-2 in the Empire 8. Houghton drops to 7-6 overall and 1-3 in the league.

Senior forward Kyra Oeffler (Green Island, NY/Heatly) added a double-double, her second of the season as she had 12 points to go with her 12 rebounds in the contest.

Rookie guard Lauren Sanderson (Ravena, NY/RCS) erupted for a career-best 17 points in the game with four rebounds, three assists, and two steals in making the start for the Gators. The performance marked her second straight career-best outing as she added 10 points in Friday night's road win over Alfred University.

RSC's senior guard Sammy Pasinella (Mechanicville, NY/Mechanicville) led the team with 18 points, including four three-point baskets. She added five assists and now has 644 career points including 89 three-point baskets, moving her into the No. 10 spot on the career list. She moved ahead of Erin Willis (87, 1999-2004) on Saturday, while her 152 career assists is 15th as well now.

Senior guard Megan Murray (Watervliet, NY/Watervliet) was impressive on the boards as the Gators held a 48-35 edge over the Highlanders. Murray had 10 rebounds with seven defensive boards and six points in the action.

Junior guard Renna Poulin (Troy, NY/Tamarac) added seven points with nine rebounds, and a personal-best six steals as well for RSC.

Looking ahead, RSC is slated to host Empire 8 foe Utica College on January 18 in a 5:30 p.m. at Robison Gym in the Kahl Campus Center on Tuesday.

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