Cleveland, Ohio — Dial drops 15 in Saturday's afternoon loss to Cleveland State 84-52 at Woodling Gymnasium in Cleveland, Ohio.
 
Senior guard Talia Dial led the Purple Eagles with 15 points, connecting on 4-of-10 from beyond the arc. Dial knocked down three three-pointers in the second half to spark Niagara's offensive efforts.
 
Freshman forward Kenedie Haruna provided a major lift off the bench, contributing 13 points on an efficient 6-of-10 shooting performance.
 
The Purple Eagles found their rhythm as the game progressed, shooting 60 percent from the field in the third quarter.
 
Forward Tyasia Freeman made her presence felt at the free-throw line, converting 4-of-6 attempts while adding six points and five rebounds. Jordyn Williams contributed four points.
 
Niagara's defensive effort included three blocked shots and 11 steals, with Katarina Veljovic, Williams and Tamaria Rumph recording three steals to help disrupt Cleveland State's offensive flow.
 
Niagara Notes
• Niagara is 11-17 against Cleveland State
• The team combined for five three pointers which is a game high
• The team also tied a game high in assists with 11
• Haruna recorded a career high in points with 13
• Veljovic recorded her first collegiate block
• Jisca Bila recorded a career high in steals with three and tied a career high in rebounds with three
 
Up Next
Niagara opens up MAAC play on Friday December 19 against Siena for a 6 p.m. start, the game will include First Responders Day/Military Appreciation along with Sports Cards Set One