NEWPORT, R.I. - The Emmanuel women's basketball team wrapped up their 2024-25 non-conference slate on Tuesday evening, falling to Salve Regina, 68-55, at the Rodgers Recreation Center. The Seahawks improved to 7-6 ahead of their upcoming 11-game New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) schedule, while the Saints dropped to 5-8 as they turn their focus to 12 remaining Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) matchups.

After a low-scoring first five minutes of the game, Salve Regina hit their stride with a 9-0 run in under two minutes, building an early 14-5 lead. The Seahawks continued to expand their advantage in the second quarter, as an 11-0 surge pushed the home side ahead 30-15 with six minutes left in the half. Despite trading baskets with the Saints for the remainder of the period, Salve Regina maintained control and entered halftime with a commanding 40-25 advantage.

Emmanuel worked cut into the deficit in the second half but struggled to find a sustained run to tighten the contest. Salve Regina's lead never fell below nine points, growing to as much as 18 in the third quarter. The Seahawks controlled second half secured a 68-55 victory, their first over the Saints since the 2004 NCAA Tournament.

Graduate student Olivia Matela led the way for the Saints, posting a game-high 23 points, her second 20+ point performance of the season, while also contributing five steals on the defensive end. For Salve Regina, Ashley Rourke led the offense with 16 points on 7-of-13 shooting. Sofia Neary tallied a double-double, recording 12 points and grabbing 17 rebounds, including six on the offensive glass, in the win.

Up next, Salve Regina will pay a visit to Mount Holyoke on Saturday 1/18 at 1:00 PM to begin NEWMAC play. The Saints return to Andy Yosinoff Court tomorrow (1/15) for a 7:30 tip-off against the Lasell Lasers in GNAC action.