Buffalo, N.Y. — Niagara women's basketball showed resilience in the second half but couldn't overcome a slow start in a 74-58 loss to Canisius on Tuesday night at Koessler Athletic Center in Buffalo, N.Y.
 
The Purple Eagles battled back from a 10-point first-quarter deficit, outscoring the Golden Griffins 17-6 in the second period to cut the margin to 13 at halftime.
 
Talia Dial led Niagara with 15 points on 4-of-13 shooting while converting all six free throw attempts. Katarina Veljovic added 13 points and grabbed four rebounds, while Jordyn Williams provided a spark off the bench with 11 points.
 
The Purple Eagles found their offensive rhythm in the second quarter, shooting 50% from the field. Williams and Veljovic combined for 10 points during that stretch, helping Niagara close the gap to 32-23 at the break.
 
Niagara continued to fight in the third quarter, with Bila draining a three-pointer to pull within six points at 41-35. The Purple Eagles demonstrated improved ball movement and defensive intensity, forcing multiple turnovers that led to transition opportunities.
 
The fourth quarter saw another determined effort from Niagara. Williams scored seven points in the final period, including a pair of putback baskets. The Purple Eagles shot 43.8% from the field in the fourth and connected on 6-of-9 free throws.
 
Niagara's bench contributed 20 points, with Williams leading the reserve unit. The Purple Eagles also dominated the paint on the offensive end, scoring 34 points inside.
 
Niagara Notes
• Niagara goes to 44-65 all-time against Canisius
• Dial has recorded double digit points 16 times this season and 26 in her career
• Veljovic recorded her first game with five assists, Veljovic also recorded her 100th career point
• Kenedie Haruna recorded the Purple and White's two blocks
• Haruna has recorded four blocks in the last two contests
 
Up Next
Niagara is back in action on Saturday February 7 as they take on Quinnipiac inside the Gallagher Center for a 2 p.m. start. The game will be National Girls and Women's in Sport Day along with Play 4 Kay.