NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – The Niagara Purple Eagles battled hard but came up short against Canisius, falling 57-41 Tuesday evening at Gallagher Center in Niagara University, N.Y.
 
Niagara showed resilience in the second quarter, mounting an impressive 13-5 run to take their largest lead of the game. The Purple Eagles surged ahead 24-18 with 2:10 remaining in the half, capped by a Jordyn Williams layup assisted by Chasity Wilson.
 
Caliana Fenceroy led Niagara's offensive effort with 11 points, including a pair of crucial three-pointers during the second-quarter rally. Talia Dial added nine points, while Wilson contributed six points and five rebounds.
 
The Purple and White also capitalized on turnovers, scoring 15 points off 25 Canisius miscues.
 
The third quarter proved pivotal as Niagara stayed competitive, trading baskets with the Golden Griffins. Wilson's jumper cut the deficit to 36-33 with 2:54 remaining in the period, keeping the Purple Eagles within striking distance.
 
Kenedie Haruna provided a spark off the bench with six points, while Jade Rutledge contributed three steals in a strong defensive performance.
 
Canisius in the final frame outscored Niagara 15-3 leading to a 57-41 victory for the Griff's.
 
Niagara Notes
• Niagara goes to 44-64 all-time against Canisius
• It marked the first time this season Niagara was leading a contest after the half
• It was the third time this season the Purple and White final margin is between 11-20 points against
• Williams tied a career high in blocks with two
• In the last four games Williams has recorded five blocks
• Wilson broke a career high in rebounds with five
 
Up Next
Niagara is back in action on Monday January 19 as they head on the road to Emmitsburg, MD to take on Mount St. Mary's for a 1 p.m. tip off