NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. - The Niagara Purple Eagles (1-18, 0-11 MAAC) remained winless in conference play after falling to Merrimack College, 66-52. Despite a strong individual performance from Safiatu Kolliegbo, who led all Niagara scorers with 17 points, the Purple Eagles struggled to maintain offensive consistency throughout the game.
 
How it Happened
Lore Porter provided a spark with 13 points, including three three-pointers, while Amelia Strong contributed 11 points in a reserve role. The Purple Eagles shot 38.8 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from three-point range.
 
Niagara faced early offensive challenges, scoring just nine points in the first quarter on 14.3 percent shooting. Although their shooting improved in subsequent quarters, particularly in the fourth where they shot 57.1 percent from the field, they were unable to overcome the Merrimack lead.
 
The Purple Eagles' defensive efforts resulted in 10 steals and 4 blocked shots, but they were outrebounded 38-23, limiting their second-chance opportunities to just two points. The team's bench contributed 13 points to the overall effort.
 
Despite trailing throughout the game, Niagara showed resilience in the fourth quarter, hitting three three-pointers and scoring 19 points in the final period. However, their comeback attempt fell short as Merrimack maintained their lead to secure the victory.
 
Niagara Notes
• Thursday marked the second meeting all-time between Niagara and Merrimack, with the Warriors taking a 2-0 series lead.
• Niagara's 13 game losing streak is the programs longest since the 2010-11 where they lost 24 consecutive games. 
• Merrimack's 27 turnovers were the second most in a game this season, two less than the Purple Eagles forced in their first meeting on Dec. 18. 
• It is the sixth time this season the Purple Eagles recorded four or more blocked shots.
• Kolliegbo has led the team in scoring 10 times this season. 
• Porter connected on three 3-pointers for the second consecutive game and is 6-for-12 over that span. 
 
Up Next
The Purple Eagles are set to host Quinnipiac on Saturday Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. to celeberate National Girls and Women in Sports Day.