FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Saint Leo University women's basketball battled with the No.9 Nova Southeastern Sharks in their final regular season SSC road contest of the year, falling 81-68.
First Quarter
Saint Leo opened strong behind Olivia Agunzo's eight quick points, including a smooth catch and shoot three that briefly put the Lions ahead 6–2. Freshman Zoe O'Leary added six points and three boards in the opening frame, and freshman Amy Duggan knocked down a three to keep the Lions within striking distance after one, only trailing 23-20
Second Quarter
The Lions caught fire from deep, hitting five threes in the quarter. Sophomore Jocelyn Gagnon buried multiple triples on her way to 15 first half points, while Agunzo added two more from long range. O'Leary and graduate student Paula Llovich helped Saint Leo win the rebounding battle, and the Lions trailed 43-42 at the half.
Third Quarter
Nova seized control with a decisive run, but Saint Leo continued to compete on the glass. O'Leary delivered a highlight with her second block of the game, and Gagnon grabbed several key rebounds to slow the Sharks' momentum, though the Lions struggled to convert offensively.
Fourth Quarter
Saint Leo closed with toughness, outscoring Nova by 11 in the final period and finishing on a 10–0 run. Freshman Jailenn Green powered the surge with eight fourth quarter points, while Agunzo hit her fifth three of the afternoon. The Lions forced nine turnovers in the frame and showed strong defensive pressure to the finish, but ultimately fell 81-68.
Saint Leo Stat Leaders
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O'Leary: 8 pts, 13 reb, 2 blk
The women's basketball team is back home on Wednesday, Feb. 25 where they will play the Spartans of Tampa.
