Newton MA – The Lasell University Lasers dropped a close 66-61 battle at the hands of the Wheaton Lyons on Wednesday night. The win gives Wheaton their first of the season improving them to 1-2. The loss is the second on the year for the Lasers, dropping them to 1-2 as well.The five point loss comes just a year after a season opening 21 point loss to the Lyons last season.

The game was back and forth early throughout the first quarter until about the halfway mark when the Lyons began a 7-0 run. That run would conclude the first quarter and give Wheaton a 13-7 lead.

The Lyons continued to hold a commanding lead in the second, but the Lasers would not go away. After trailing by as much as 13 Lasell managed to bring it to a seven-point game at half thanks to two big three pointers from sophomore Kiara Cerruti and graduate student Brooke Damboise as well as a two-point jumper from sophomore Shirle Major at the buzzer.

The third quarter remained tight, but the Lasers couldn't find the run they were looking for to take the lead. Cerruti managed to keep the Lasers close banging back-to-back threes, just six of her 19 points on the night.

In the fourth quarter the Lasers were able to find their stride offensively, managing to keep the game within reach as they never trailed by more than nine. Some clutch and one opportunities from Major, Cerruti, and junior Mia Sullivan-Sanders kept the Lasers in it. However, a Wheaton three-pointer and two successful trips to the free throw line would seal it for the Lyons, handing Lasell the 66-61 loss.

The Lasers were led by Cerruti who posted a double-double scoring 19 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Behind Cerruti was Major (14), and Damboise (10). Sophomore Laura Johnson also grabbed 10 boards for the Lasers.

Up next – The Lasers return home on Saturday afternoon at 1:00 pm in a non-conference battle against Salem State!