Niagara University, N.Y. — Niagara's women's basketball team demonstrated stints of offensive spurts Saturday afternoon at Gallagher Center, though Manhattan ultimately secured a 74-53 victory in Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference play.
 
Talia Dial led the Purple Eagles' attack with 13 points while showcasing her range from beyond the arc, connecting on three 3-pointers. Jade Rutledge provided a strong all-around performance with 11 points and three blocks.
 
The Purple Eagles showed their fighting spirit in the third quarter, with their best outing scoring 19 and cutting into the Jaspers' lead. Tyasia Freeman was active on the glass with seven rebounds and added eight points, while Jisca Bila contributed eight points off the bench in 25 minutes of work.
 
Niagara shot 77.8% from the free-throw line, demonstrating composure at the charity stripe, and outscoring Manhattan's fast break output with 14 points on the break. The Purple Eagles also generated 20 points off turnovers, showcasing their defensive pressure at times.
 
Caliana Fenceroy battled throughout her 35 minutes, contributing seven points, four rebounds and three assists while directing the offense.
 
Niagara Notes
• Niagara goes to 38-36 all-time against Manhattan
• Bila tied a career high in rebounds with four and broke a career high in steals with five
• Dial has led the team in scoring in seven straight games
 
Up Next
Niagara is back in action on Wednesday January 14 as they take on cross town rival in Canisius for a Battle of the Bridge contest