Raiders Fall to Chestnut Hill in Defensive Battle

Written By: Walker Stutts

Adapted for Web By: Walker Stutts

SHIPPENSBURG, PA- Shippensburg’s women’s basketball team came up short Monday, December 1st, falling 89-76 to Chestnut Hill in a matchup that involved heavy defensive intensity as the game continued

Shippensburg was able to put the first point up on the board when Abby Johns scored in the paint. Chestnut Hill quickly answered with a lamp of its own, setting the tone for a back-and-forth opening quarter. Both teams played well defensively, combining for six steals in the first quarter as neither offense would find a consistent rhythm.

Despite the defensive masterclass, the Raiders had difficulty capitalizing on opportunities. By halftime, Shippensburg trailed 28-24 after several missed shots that were heavily contested,which would limit their momentum.

The defensive battle continued into the second half, with both teams trading blocks, steals, and empty shots on the offense. Midway through the third quarter, the tide had shifted. The Raiders' defense, which had played very well up until this point, began to break down, allowing Chestnut Hill to put together several scoring runs that extended their lead. Shippensburg was unable to recover as Chestnut Hill maintained control for the remainder of the half.

Freshman guard Melina Eyer was the key factor for the Raiders, finishing with 21 points and seven assists, which was one of her strongest outings of the season. Her ability to create shots and distribute the ball to Shippensburg kept them competitive early, even as the offense struggled to find balance elsewhere on the floor. 

Chestnut Hill's steady scoring ultimately was too much for the Raiders, who were unable to close the gap in the final minutes. The loss dropped Shippensburg to 1-4 while Chestnut Hill improved to 3-3 in the season.

Shippensburg will look to regroup as it continues its early nonconference schedule and works to establish consistency on both sides of the ball.