The York University Lions hit the road to Waterloo for their final regular-season game of the year, coming off a strong win over the Guelph Gryphons the night before. Facing the Laurier Golden Hawks, the matchup carried added importance with the postseason seeding variable. 

York's Kiara Leveridge set the early tone with confident scoring, while Gabby Di Pietro impacted the game on both ends of the court, adding points and forcing turnovers. Laurier found some success from beyond the arc, but York's rebounding and free-throw shooting helped maintain control. Akuach Buang capped the quarter by converting two late free throws to keep the Lions comfortably ahead, closing the opening quarter with a 28–18 lead. 

The Golden Hawks flipped the game in the second quarter, using perimeter shooting and second-chance opportunities to seize control. Laurier knocked down multiple three-pointers and capitalized at the free-throw line to build momentum. The Lions battled to stay within reach, with Leveridge and Di Pietro helping keep the score close through steady offense and defensive rebounds. Despite York's efforts, Laurier closed the half strong, taking a 43–40 lead into halftime. 

York pulled ahead in a competitive third quarter, using Leveridge and Emmanuelle Felix to drive the offense and convert key layups and free throws. The Lions also capitalized on defensive rebounds and forced turnovers to maintain momentum. By the end of the quarter, York led 57–55. 

York kept it close early, with Leveridge hitting a key free throw to tie the game at 58–58. Both teams exchanged baskets and fouls in a tight back-and-forth, with Laurier regaining a slim edge at 60–66 midway through. York struggled to convert in the final stretch despite offensive rebounds, while Laurier capitalized on free throws and layups to pull away. York fought to close the margin, but Laurier prevailed finishing the game ahead 82–70. 

LOOKING AHEAD:
The Lions will now shift their focus to the OUA postseason. Under the 12-team playoff format, the three divisional winners and the next best finisher secure the top four seeds and a first-round bye, leaving seeds 5 through 12 to battle it out in the opening round. The Lions are set to kick off their playoff run in round one this Wednesday, February 18th.