FAIRFIELD, CT — Niagara's women's basketball couldn't overcome an early deficit in a 98-42 loss to Fairfield on Saturday at Leo D. Mahoney Arena in Fairfield, CT
 
Niagara found their offensive rhythm after halftime, nearly tripling their first-half output by scoring 31 points in the final two quarters. Niagara shot 53.8% from the field in the third quarter, their best shooting performance of the game.
 
Talia Dial led the Purple Eagles with 15 points on 4-of-9 shooting, while also contributing one assist and two steals. Dial was efficient from the free-throw line, converting 6-of-7 attempts.
 
Katarina Veljovic provided a steady presence with eight points and four rebounds in 31 minutes of action. Jade Campbell came off the bench to grab a team-high nine rebounds while adding five points.
 
The Purple Eagles demonstrated their ability to create opportunities off turnovers, forcing 16 Fairfield turnovers and converting them into seven points. Niagara also showed discipline at the free-throw line, shooting 76.9% (10-of-13) for the game.
 
Niagara Notes
• Niagara goes to 24-52 all-time against Fairfield
• Dial has recorded 15 or more points in the last four games
• Jordyn Williams recorded a new career high in blocks with two
• The loss is the largest losing margin to Fairfield in program history with 56 points
 
Up Next
Niagara is back in action on Thursday January 8 as they take on Iona for a 11 a.m. start time as the game will be Kids Day