Lehigh Mountain Hawks women’s basketball suffered a significant setback in their 78-69 defeat against Army, a loss that severely impacts their chances of advancing to the Patriot League Tournament. The game highlighted a crucial lesson in consistency for the Mountain Hawks, a lesson they failed to fully grasp.
A Strong Start, Followed by a Stunning Collapse
Lehigh began the contest with considerable momentum, establishing a commanding 65.2% field goal percentage in the opening half. However, the second half witnessed a dramatic shift in fortunes. Army’s offense surged, outscoring Lehigh 48-22 and seizing control of the game. The Mountain Hawks’ initial aggression dissolved, replaced by a noticeable lack of focus, allowing Army to dictate the tempo and ultimately secure the victory.
Key Contributors, Yet Ultimately Insufficient
Despite individual efforts, Lehigh’s roster struggled to maintain the high level of play established in the first half. Sophomore forward Kerry Kinek led the Mountain Hawks with 18 points, while junior guard Sarah Williams added 15 points, including four successful three-pointers. However, Army’s Kelsey Minato’s dominant performance – a team-high 31 points – proved too much for Lehigh’s defense to contain. Minato’s scoring prowess directly correlated with Army’s ability to dismantle Lehigh’s defensive strategy.
What Went Wrong: A Focus on Fundamentals
The Mountain Hawks’ collapse underscores the critical importance of sustained effort and focus across the entirety of a basketball game. The loss of intensity and strategic aggression in the second half gifted Army the advantage. Lehigh’s inability to maintain that initial level of intensity proved a critical flaw. Moving forward, the team needs to address defensive consistency and maintain a high level of engagement throughout the 40-minute timeframe.
The Road Ahead: Tournament Implications
Lehigh’s record now stands at 12-15, and the outcome of this game significantly impacts their prospects of competing in the Patriot League Tournament. A deep run is now a considerable challenge. The team faces an uphill battle requiring focused effort and improved execution if they are to avoid a first-round exit.
What This Means for Consumers
This game illustrates a common theme in college basketball – the fragility of momentum. It serves as a reminder of the vital role of defensive resilience and strategic adjustments throughout a contest. Lehigh’s performance highlights the need for coaches to instill and consistently reinforce these fundamental elements within their teams.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Lehigh showcased significant offensive potential in the first half. Key players demonstrated scoring ability.
Cons:
The Mountain Hawks struggled with defensive consistency and lost focus in the second half. Maintaining energy and momentum is essential for sustained success.
