ARPAN KAUR // yorkulions.ca

The York University Lions women's basketball made their return to the court for their 2022-23 OUA season opener, as they visited the Carleton Ravens Friday night. 

After a hard-fought fourth quarter, the Lions were unable to mount a comeback, dropping a 69-57 contest at the Raven's Nest.   

HOW IT HAPPENED:

• Tianna Bailey of the Lions kicked off the season opener for both teams with a three-pointer in the first minute of action. The rest of the quarter featured a back-and-forth exchange of baskets between the two teams, ultimately resulting in a 21-21 tie at the end of the first 10 minutes of play.
• The Ravens took charge in the second quarter, as they put together an 11-0 run. The Lions struggled to find a basket, tallying just six points, following a nine-minute shooting drought. York trailed 38-27 heading at halftime.
• The Lions started slow once again in the second half, despite getting solid opportunities off of excellent ball movement. On the other hand, the Ravens continued to feed off their momentum as they went on a 12-0 run in the third frame, building a 62-41 lead.
• The Lions created more chances and were able to capitalize in the fourth quarter, thabks to a collective team effort. With five points each, Kiara Leveridge and Lauren Golding enabled the Lions to outscore the Ravens 16-7 in the final quarter. However, the Ravens managed to hold off the Lions marking their first victory of the season.

NOTABLE NUMBERS:

• The Lions were led by Golding who recorded a double-double, tallying 15 points, grabbing 12 rebounds and making two steals. She was accompanied by a 19-point performance by Leveridge.  
• Kali Pocrnic led the way for the Ravens with a game-high 24 points, five rebounds and three steals.

LOOKING AHEAD:

The Lions will remain in the capital city, as they are right back in action on Saturday, Nov 5 to face the Ottawa Gee-Gees at the Montpetit Hall. Tip-off is set for 6pm.