Niagara University, N.Y. — Women's Basketball battled hard against MAAC-leading Fairfield on Thursday night at Gallagher Center, with Talia Dial leading the charge with a 13-point, five-rebound performance in an 81-51 loss at the Gallagher Center in Niagara University, N.Y.
 
Freeman showcased her efficiency inside, connecting on 5-of-6 shooting from the field while adding a blocked shot. Katarina Veljovic and Tyasia Freeman each contributed 12 points for the Purple Eagles.
 
The Purple Eagles started strong, trading baskets with the Stags in the opening quarter. After Caliana Fenceroy's three-pointer tied the game at 3-3, Niagara briefly took the lead on back-to-back baskets by Veljovic. The game remained competitive early, with four lead changes and four ties in the first quarter.
 
Niagara's third quarter showed their most productive quarter. Freeman was instrumental during that stretch, scoring eight points including three consecutive layups. The Purple Eagles demonstrated their resilience at the free-throw line, converting 15-of-21 attempts (71.4%) for the game.
 
Veljovic finished with four steals, while Caliana Fenceroy dished out a team-high four assists. The Purple Eagles dominated the paint battle, outscoring Fairfield 30-22 in that category.
 
Fairfield was led by Kaety L'Amoreaux's 26 points on 9-of-14 shooting. The Stags' decisive run came in the second quarter, when they outscored Niagara 26-3 to take control of the game.
 
Niagara Notes
• Niagara drops to 24-53 all-time against Fairfield
• Dial tied a career-high in rebounds with five
• Veljovic broke a career high in points with 12 and recorded her first career game with double digits points
• Chasity Wilson recorded her second career block
• Niagara is on a six-game skid against Fairfield
• The Purple Eagles recorded more rebounds than their opponent in three contests this year
• Dial recorded her 13^th game this season with double digit points
• The last time the Purple and White had three players with double digit points was on December 21, 2025, against Saint Peter's
 
Up Next
Niagara is back in action on Saturday January 24 as they host Sacred Heart at 2 p.m. The game will include Season Ticket Holder Appreciation Day.